Excessive Heat

Question

Lately, I’ve been feeling like I’m overheating all the time, even when I’m not exerting myself physically. My body feels hot, and I often sweat more than usual, even in cooler temperatures. This feeling of excessive heat seems to be affecting my energy levels and making me feel irritable. I’ve been trying to cool down by drinking more water and using cooling products, but it hasn’t seemed to help much.

I’m wondering if this is related to my internal body temperature or if there’s something else going on, like a hormonal imbalance or an underlying health issue. I’ve heard that Ayurveda looks at the body’s internal balance, and I’m curious if this excessive heat is related to an imbalance in my doshas, particularly Pitta. I’ve read that Pitta is associated with heat and that certain foods, activities, and herbs can help cool the body down.

I’m interested in learning more about how Ayurveda can help balance internal heat and reduce the feeling of excessive warmth. I’ve heard that cooling herbs like coriander, mint, and coconut can help soothe the body and restore balance. Are there any specific Ayurvedic remedies that can help with this issue and prevent it from becoming a chronic problem?

Has anyone dealt with excessive internal heat and found relief through Ayurvedic practices or natural remedies?

Dr Sujal Patil · Accepted Answer

Excessive internal heat and sweating can be linked to high Pitta dosha in Ayurveda, which governs metabolism, digestion, and body temperature. When Pitta is aggravated—due to stress, spicy foods, hot weather, or excessive physical activity—it can lead to overheating, irritability, inflammation, and excessive sweating. Since you’re already hydrating, incorporating cooling foods like cucumber, coconut water, mint, coriander, and sweet fruits can help restore balance. Avoiding spicy, oily, and acidic foods, along with reducing caffeine and alcohol, can also prevent further aggravation.

Ayurvedic remedies that help cool the body include aloe vera juice, fennel tea, and sandalwood powder mixed with rose water (for external application). Shatavari and Brahmi are two cooling herbs that can support hormonal balance and reduce internal heat. Drinking coriander seed water (soaking the seeds overnight and drinking the strained water in the morning) can help naturally regulate body temperature. Coconut oil Abhyanga (self-massage) before a shower can also have a cooling effect on the body.

Lifestyle changes like avoiding excessive sun exposure, practicing cooling Pranayama (like Sheetali or Sheetkari breathing), and engaging in gentle yoga can further help. Wearing light, breathable fabrics and taking lukewarm showers instead of hot ones can also prevent overheating. If this persists despite Ayurvedic remedies, it may be worth checking for hormonal imbalances, thyroid issues, or other underlying causes.

Dr. Harsha Joy · Answer

In Ayurveda, the symptoms you're describing—feeling overheated, increased sweating, and irritability—are often associated with an imbalance in the Pitta dosha, which governs heat, metabolism, and energy in the body. When Pitta becomes excessive, it can lead to internal heat and a sense of discomfort. To balance Pitta, Ayurveda recommends incorporating cooling herbs and foods into your routine. Herbs like coriander, mint, and coconut can help cool the body, reduce inflammation, and restore harmony. Additionally, consuming cooling foods such as cucumbers, melons, and dairy (if suitable for you) can help pacify Pitta. It's also helpful to practice calming activities like meditation and yoga to reduce stress, which can exacerbate Pitta imbalance. Avoiding spicy, oily, or fried foods, and staying in cool environments, can also support your body in managing excess heat.

Excessive Heat - #17078

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