Tanning, dryness, and sunburn—when summer hits hard, your skin often takes the biggest blow. Whether it's sunburn from a day outdoors or stubborn tanning after just a few minutes in the sun, the effects can linger and frustrate. Most people rush to grab chemical-based lotions and quick-fix products. While these might offer temporary relief, they often come at the cost of long-term skin health and may even cause damage over time.But what if the solution isn’t on the store shelves but in your kitchen? Ayurveda has long relied on herbs that calm the body, balance the Pitta dosha (which governs heat), and protect the skin from sun damage, inflammation, and dryness. Pitta is described as hot, sharp, oily, and penetrating. When fiery Pitta flares up–we burn up and burn out. That's why reducing body heat with Ayurveda starts with reducing Pitta dosha.Signs of Pitta ImbalancePitta heat manifests in many ways, including:InflammationSkin conditionsMigrainesAcid refluxLoose stoolsNauseaConstipationBody odorExcessive sweatingUnpleasant menstrual cyclesBurnout and fatigueMental heat (think short-fuses and irritability)3 Ayurvedic Herbs Hold Solution To These Problems1. Liquorice (Mulethi): The Brightening HealerStruggling with sunburn and dark spots? Liquorice, or Mulethi, is your skin’s natural ally against harsh summer damage. This powerful Ayurvedic herb is known for its cooling, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. It helps balance the Pitta dosha, which governs heat in the body and is often responsible for summer skin issues like tanning, rashes, and irritation.Liquorice works on multiple levels—topically, it soothes inflamed skin and fades pigmentation, while internally, it supports hormonal balance and detoxification. The presence of glabridin, a natural compound found in liquorice root, helps inhibit the enzyme that causes skin darkening, making it highly effective for lightening sun-induced spots and hyperpigmentation.You can apply liquorice powder mixed with rose water as a face mask or sip it as a herbal infusion. Regular use not only restores your skin’s glow but also builds resistance against further sun damage, making it a must-have for your summer skincare arsenal.2. Sariva (Anantmool): The Detoxifying SootherSariva, also known as Anantmool, is a revered herb in Ayurveda for its profound detoxifying, cooling, and rejuvenating effects on the body and skin. Especially effective in summer, Sariva helps purify the blood, calm inflammation, and cool down the internal system, which is crucial when Pitta dosha is aggravated by heat and humidity.This herb is a saviour for those suffering from acne, rashes, or frequent skin breakouts, as it helps eliminate toxins from the bloodstream that often manifest as skin problems. Sariva also has a naturally sweet and earthy aroma that promotes calmness and relaxation—benefits that extend to the skin by reducing stress-induced flare-ups.You can consume Sariva in powdered or decoction form or apply it as a paste on affected areas. It also pairs well with other herbs like neem and turmeric for enhanced results. With regular use, it leaves your skin noticeably clearer, calmer, and visibly refreshed.3. Vetiver (Ushira): Nature’s Skin CoolerVetiver, or Ushira, is a hidden gem in Ayurvedic skincare and an excellent remedy for heat-related skin problems. Often referred to as "khus" in India, Vetiver is packed with cooling, anti-inflammatory, and hydrating properties that make it ideal for summer wellness. It helps reduce excessive body heat, soothes sunburn, and fights skin irritation caused by overexposure to the sun.Vetiver is also a natural astringent that tightens the skin and prevents breakouts, while its hydrating effect tackles summer dryness and flakiness. Whether used in the form of face mists, bath soaks, or herbal teas, Vetiver provides a calming and grounding effect on both skin and mind.Its essential oil is often used in aromatherapy to ease anxiety and balance emotional heat, which indirectly supports skin health. Integrating Vetiver into your daily routine helps maintain your body’s internal cool, making your skin feel nourished, balanced, and visibly rejuvenated even in peak summer.