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As the warm and vibrant summer months approach, many of us are eager to soak up the sun, spend time outdoors, and enjoy the bountiful harvest of fresh fruits and vegetables. However, along with the joys of summer also come the challenges of balancing the body's natural energies and staying healthy in the face of rising temperatures and humidity.
The ancient Indian healing tradition of Ayurveda offers a wealth of knowledge and guidance for maintaining optimal health during the summer months. Ayurveda teaches that each individual has a unique constitution, or dosha, made up of various elements and energies, which can become imbalanced by seasonal changes and environmental factors. These doshas are Vata, Kapha, and Pitta. If we speak specifically about summers, staying in the heat for a long period of time causes us to sweat and triggers Pitta Dosha.
One of the key principles of Ayurveda is the use of natural herbs and spices to promote balance and harmony within the body. In this article, we will see some of the top herbs and spices recommended for summer, including their health benefits. So, if you are looking to cool down and refresh your system this summer, let us explore the world of Ayurveda-recommended herbs and discover the powerful benefits of nature's own medicine cabinet!
Fennel
It is a refreshing herb with a sweet and licorice-like flavour that has been used for centuries in Ayurveda to cool the body during hot summer months. Fennel seeds are a natural diuretic that can help eliminate excess heat and toxins from the body while also promoting healthy digestion and reducing inflammation. Fennel can be added to salads, teas, or even chewed raw or along with paan (Indian mouth freshner) after meals to freshen the breath and cool down the system.
Mint
This cooling herb with a fresh flavour is perfect for hot summer days. Mint leaves are rich in menthol, a natural compound that can help reduce body temperature and soothe digestive issues like bloating, gas, hiccups, and nausea. The herb has great cooling and cleansing properties. Mint can be added to smoothies, salads, or teas, or even used topically as a cooling and soothing skin toner. Mint chutney is a popular accompaniment for kebabs, deep-fried fritters and is used in chaats and other popular Indian snacks.
Coriander Leaves
Cilantro has a nice aroma and cooling properties | Unsplash
Also known as cilantro, dhaniya patti is a versatile herb that can be used in a variety of summer dishes to add flavour and coolness. Coriander leaves are rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, too, for easy digestion in the summer. Other than that, mint is also an amazing source of vitamin C. Coriander leaves can be used in salads, salsas with tomatoes, chutneys with coconut, and even blended into refreshing green smoothies. Also, it can be used as a garnish for many sabzis and savoury dishes.
Green Cardamom
It is a fragrant and aromatic spice that is commonly used to cool the body during the hot summer months. Green cardamom pods contain natural oils and compounds that can help reduce heat and inflammation, improve digestion, and freshen the breath. It can also be helpful to cure cramps and body pain. This elaichi can be added to teas, desserts, or even savoury dishes like curries and stews. It can also be added to kulfi or kheer for the sweet aroma.
Turmeric
This extremely potent and versatile spice has been used for centuries in Ayurveda to promote overall health and wellness and is called the golden spice for its innumerable benefits. Turmeric contains curcumin, a powerful anti-inflammatory compound that can help reduce heat in the body while also supporting healthy digestion, immunity, and brain function. While it is used to cook food in India throughout the year, its cooling properties are best utilised in the summer. Haldi can be used in teas, smoothies, or curries, or even applied topically as a cooling and soothing skin treatment. A turmeric latte is a popular beverage nowadays that is made with turmeric powder and milk.
