Three Simple Ways to Handle Summer Heat

Indian summers can turn an ordinary afternoon into a test of patience. Rooms hold heat, taps run warm and a cold soft drink starts looking more tempting than it should. Rujuta Diwekar has suggested three home-based ideas: add vala roots to drinking water, apply mehendi to the hands or feet, and drink chaas with meals. The nutritionist, known for her work with Kareena Kapoor Khan, presents them as low-cost habits drawn from Indian homes rather than seasonal products. The advice answers a practical question: how to stay cool in summer without depending only on air conditioning or sugary drinks. These steps may make hot days easier, but they should support basic heat safety, not replace it.

Start With Vala Water

The first tip uses vala, also called vetiver or khus. Diwekar suggests placing two or three clean strands in a matka or water container. The roots give the water a mild earthy smell and natural flavour. That can help people who find plain water boring and then drink too little. The idea is simple. Make water more appealing without bottled syrup, excess sugar or artificial flavour. Vala has a long place in Indian summer life. Khus curtains were once hung across doors and windows, then sprinkled with water so passing air carried a cool fragrance. Vetiver has also been used in hand fans, mats and traditional drinks. The Economic Times report says Diwekar linked vala water with relief from headaches and summer skin or scalp trouble. Those are her claims, not medical advice. Evidence for many traditional uses remains limited, so treat the drink as flavoured water rather than a cure. Cleanliness matters. Wash the roots well, use safe drinking water and replace them regularly. Anyone with a known plant allergy should avoid the method without advice.

Mehendi Is the Most Traditional Tip

Her second suggestion is mehendi. Many Indian families connect henna with weddings, festivals and childhood summer afternoons. The cool paste on the palms feels soothing as it dries. Diwekar says applying it to the hands or feet can create a cooling feeling and offer a calming break from the day. The smell may also relax people who enjoy it. This is one of the desi hacks to beat the heat that needs the most context. Mehendi may feel cool because it is a wet paste that dries slowly. Strong medical proof that it lowers core body temperature is not established. Use plain, natural henna from a trusted source. Avoid black henna, which may contain added chemicals that can cause burns or serious skin reactions. A patch test is sensible, especially for children or anyone with sensitive skin. This tip works best as a comfort ritual. Sit in the shade, apply a small amount and rest. Do not use it to delay medical help if someone is dizzy, confused, vomiting or fainting.

Chaas Has the Strongest Practical Case

The third tip is familiar across India. Chaas, majjige, moru and taak have different names, but the basic idea is similar: dilute curd with water and season it lightly. Among common healthy summer drinks, buttermilk has a clear practical advantage. It adds fluid and can provide protein, calcium and vitamin B12, depending on the curd and how much water is added. Diwekar suggests adding a little salt, hing or roasted jeera. That makes the drink more enjoyable and may suit people who want something savoury with lunch instead of a packaged beverage. The Indian Council of Medical Research’s dietary guidance includes buttermilk among natural drinks that can fit into a balanced diet. The India Meteorological Department also lists it with water, lemon water, lassi and ORS as options that may help people stay hydrated during hot weather. Buttermilk nutrition changes from one kitchen to another. A thick glass made from full-fat curd differs from heavily diluted chaas. Salt also needs care. People with high blood pressure, kidney disease or a salt-restricted diet should follow medical advice instead of adding extra namak. Food safety matters too. Keep curd refrigerated, use clean water and do not leave prepared chaas in a hot kitchen for hours. Summer heat speeds up spoilage.

What Actually Protects You During a Heatwave

These three ideas are easy to try, but the main rules remain less exciting. Drink water often, even before thirst becomes strong. Avoid direct sun between noon and 3 pm when possible. Wear loose, light-coloured cotton clothes. Keep curtains or shutters closed against afternoon sun and open windows at cooler times if outdoor air allows. Use fans, damp cloths and regular baths to reduce discomfort. Carry water during travel. The IMD also advises people to avoid strenuous outdoor work during peak heat and use ORS when there is heavy sweating or a risk of dehydration. Sugary fizzy drinks are not a reliable replacement for water. Watch for warning signs. Headache, nausea, cramps, heavy sweating, weakness and dizziness can point to heat illness. Confusion, collapse, very hot skin or loss of consciousness needs urgent medical help. Older adults, infants, pregnant people, outdoor workers and those with chronic illness face greater risk. They need more than a home hack. They need shade, steady fluids, rest and someone checking on them. The best summer routine is usually not fancy. A matka of safe water, simple food, chaas at lunch, closed curtains and less time in the afternoon sun can do more than an expensive wellness trend. Small habits work best when the basics stay strong.

For The United Indian

Why This Matters

At The United Indian, we look past celebrity names and ask what works in an Indian home. The useful part of these tips is their low cost and familiarity.

The Bigger Picture

Traditional habits can support comfort, but they should not be presented as treatment for heat exhaustion or heatstroke. Hydration, shade and quick medical care still come first.

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