As temperatures continue to soar across India, touching 45 degrees Celsius in several states, celebrity nutritionist Rujuta Diwekar has revived three traditional desi hacks that require no air conditioning, no electricity, and no expensive supplements. Taking to Instagram on May 26, the nutritionist, known for guiding Kareena Kapoor Khan's fitness journey, reminded Indians of age-old remedies that have been cooling bodies for centuries.

The first recommendation is to add two to three strands of vetiver roots, also known as vala or khus, to your everyday drinking water. "This is India's OG-infused water," Diwekar said in her video. The roots naturally impart a mild sweetness to the water while creating a cooling effect that works from within. What makes this tip particularly relevant is that in peak summer, most people struggle to drink enough plain water. The vetiver roots solve that problem naturally, making water more appealing. The same roots can be reused for up to three days and, after that, can be tossed into bathing water. Historically, hand-held fans and grass curtains in North Indian homes were woven from vetiver. Beyond cooling, vetiver water may also help with acne, dandruff, and headaches.

The second hack is as nostalgic as it is practical – applying mehndi or henna on hands. Diwekar pointed out that this childhood summer activity was never just about aesthetics. Applying mehndi is one of the oldest and most natural ways to bring body temperature down. Henna has properties that actively draw heat out through the palms, which are key heat-release points in the body. The natural fragrance of mehndi also works as a de-stressor, helping calm the mind and uplift mood. "It gives you a slow life," Diwekar noted.

The third recommendation is buttermilk or chaas. Diwekar suggested consuming it two to three times a day during summer. "Chaas has protein, calcium, and B12. We now know it also works as a prebiotic, probiotic, and postbiotic," she explained. Buttermilk with a little salt, hing, and cumin powder supports digestion, maintains appetite, reduces bloating, and improves skin glow. It also helps replenish electrolytes lost through dehydration.

The Ministry of Ayush, in coordination with the Directorate General of Health Services, has also issued a public health advisory recommending cooling dietary practices and hydrating beverages. Traditional preparations including Nimbukaphala Panaka, Amra Prapanaka, and Chincha Panaka have been specifically mentioned to help regulate body temperature during extreme heat.

As India continues to battle intense heatwaves, these zero-cost, chemical-free solutions offer a sustainable alternative to air conditioning and sugary soft drinks. Diwekar's emphasis on eating local, seasonal foods rather than fancy supplements resonates with a growing movement toward traditional wellness. Health experts suggest that adopting even one of these hacks can make a noticeable difference in how the body copes with rising temperatures.