Lassi is considered “cooling” for the body in the context of Ayurveda, which might explain your friend’s remark. It’s not about the temperature, like being “icy,” but rather its effect on your body’s internal energy balance. Lassi, made from yogurt, has a natural cooling effect due to its qualities, which can help soothe excess pitta dosha. Pitta is associated with heat, so that’s why lassi feels refreshing after a spicy or heavy meal, especially in hot weather.
Yogurt itself is considered to have a cooling virya (energy), making it helpful for calming inflammation, heat-related disorders, or when you’re feeling agitated. If you enjoy lassi after a meal, it aids in digestion, but ensure it’s not too heavy or thick—dilution with water makes it lighter and easier to digest. Adding spices like cardamom or a pinch of cumin can also balance its cooling nature, making it more suited to different seasons or body types, especially if you have a tendency towards kapha or vata imbalance.
On cool days, or if your constitution is naturally more kapha or prone to respiratory issues, you might want to consume lassi in moderation, with warming spices. Opt for a thinner consistency during these times. Drinking lassi in the morning can be more beneficial for digestive fire, rather than later in the evening when it’s cooler. Remember to listen to your body and enjoy it when it feels right for you. If consumed too much, or inappropriately for your body type or season, it could lead to imbalance. Always adapt to how your body responds.
