Step outside in May, and it’s blazing hot, step into the office, and the AC is freezing, then by evening, there’s dust in the air and maybe even an unexpected shower. This kind of weather confusion is common across Indian cities and often brings seasonal congestion, throat irritation, blocked sinuses, or that heavy “coming-down-with-something” feeling. In Ayurveda, this period is known as Grishma Ritu - the peak summer season, when heat, dryness, and fluid loss can gradually lower the body’s strength. In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Sachin Anand , Co- Founder of Amma Living, shared home remedies that ease congestion.
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1. Shikanji
Take fresh lemon water with roasted jeera, black salt, and room-temperature water. Sachin said, “It helps replenish fluids and electrolytes lost through sweating, supports hydration, reduces fatigue, and may aid digestion after heat exposure or long hours in AC environments.” Avoid excess sugar and ice and if symptoms persist, ongoing fatigue or throat irritation should be evaluated.
2. Chaas (Buttermilk)
Take fresh chaas blended with roasted jeera, mint, coriander, and a pinch of salt. According to Sachin, it supports hydration, digestion, and helps cool the body naturally during hot months. It can also feel light and refreshing when the appetite is low in summer. He advises this to be best taken fresh and not ice-cold. If symptoms persist, if bloating, loose motions, or congestion worsens, consult a doctor.
3. Sattu drink
Take roasted gram flour mixed with water, jeera, and light seasoning. It provides steady energy, supports hydration, helps with summer fatigue, and keeps you fuller for longer. A practical option during hot days when heavy meals feel unappealing. However, it is best taken fresh and in moderate quantities. If symptoms persist, ongoing digestive discomfort should be evaluated by a doctor.
4. Kokum
{{/usCountry}}Take roasted gram flour mixed with water, jeera, and light seasoning. It provides steady energy, supports hydration, helps with summer fatigue, and keeps you fuller for longer. A practical option during hot days when heavy meals feel unappealing. However, it is best taken fresh and in moderate quantities. If symptoms persist, ongoing digestive discomfort should be evaluated by a doctor.
4. Kokum
{{/usCountry}}Kokum drink is prepared with mint and fennel. It is cooling and refreshing, often used to support comfort during heat exposure. It may help with acidity, sluggish appetite, and that overheated feeling common in peak summer. Sachin advises making this drink at home or consuming low-sugar versions. If acidity or stomach pain persists, it requires medical review.
5. Warm kadha or herbal infusion
A light warm infusion with ingredients like ginger, tulsi, cinnamon, mulethi, or black pepper. It supports throat comfort, helps ease mild seasonal congestion, and offers warmth when dust, humidity, or sudden weather changes trigger irritation. Warm fluids may also feel soothing for blocked sinuses. Sachin recommends keeping it mild in peak summer. If cough, fever, or breathing discomfort continue, consult a doctor.
Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.
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