how to reduce internal body heat

Question

I am really struggling with this heat in my body. For the last few months, I've noticed that I feel this intense heat, especially in the evenings. Like, it’s not the weather or anything, but more like an internal thing? I sweat a lot, even when it's slightly chilly. I've tried drinking cold water and eating ice cream, but honestly those tricks don’t work too well. I also feel like my mood gets heated easily, like I snap over silly stuff and it's just kinda embarrassing.

I read somewhere about the importance of balancing body’s temperature, you know — like, how to reduce internal body heat. A friend told me that certain foods could help cool me down but I’m not sure which ones. I've been avoiding spicy foods, and I really do love my curries, but even they seem to make it worse!!

I've also tried some herbal teas which are supposed to help, like peppermint and chamomile, but I don’t see much difference. There's got to be more effective ways to target this heat. Can anyone suggest specific diets or certain Ayurvedic remedies on how to reduce internal body heat that actually work? I could really use some help before I make a fool of myself at my family dinner next week. Would love any tips!!!

Dr. Sara Garg · Answer

The sensation of internal body heat you're experiencing could suggest an imbalance in Pitta dosha. In Ayurveda, Pitta represents the fire element, and when it's excessive, symptoms like overheating, irritability, and increased sweating can manifest. Your approach to reduce body heat should be holistic, addressing diet, lifestyle, and herbs.

First, it's great that you've tried to avoid spicy foods, such as curries, which intensify Pitta. However, switching to a Pitta-pacifying diet will likely benefit you. Focus on including cooling foods like cucumbers, melons, sweet fruits (like ripe pears, apples, or berries), leafy greens, and zucchini. Try incorporating these into meals, especially at lunch and dinner. You can also have cooling beverages, such as coconut water or fresh mint water; drink them throughout the day. They act quickly to cool down your internal heat.

Consistency is key in Ayurveda. While drinking peppermint and chamomile tea is helpful, adding coriander or fennel seeds to your diet might enhance the cooling effect. Try steeping a teaspoon of these seeds in hot water for 10 minutes, and drink this infusion in the morning and evening—it's an effective cooling remedy. In semi-consistent style, cracked fennel seeds also make a refreshing summer snack on their own.

Lifestyle changes further complement dietary adjustments. Avoid excessive sun exposure and heat-producing activities like intense workouts in the middle of the day. Engage in cooling yoga poses, such as Shavasana (Corpse Pose) or Sheetali Pranayama, a cooling breathing technique. Sheeta-karma, a gentle form of pranayama, also helps balance the fire within. Note, that you should practice under guidance if you are not very familiar with Pranayama.

Lastly, consider applying fresh aloe vera gel topically; it has a natural cooling effect. If symptoms persist, weight professional Ayurvedic consultation to tailor more specific remedies to your unique constitution.

However, if you suddenly experience severe symptoms like persistent high fever or dehydration, seek immediate medical help. Your health is a priority, and it's important to address any acute conditions with urgency.

Dr. Ravi Chandra Rushi · Answer

To address internal body heat from an Ayurvedic perspective, we need to consider the balance of the doshas, particularly focusing on reducing excess Pitta, which is often responsible for the symptoms you’re experiencing. Since Pitta is related to fire and heat in the body, our aim is to cool and pacify it.

First, adjust your diet by including foods that have a cooling effect on the body. Cooling foods are often sweet, bitter, and astringent. Cucumber, watermelon, cantaloupe, sweet apples, pears, and berries are excellent choices. Vegetables like zucchini, asparagus, leafy greens, and lettuce can help reduce Pitta. Coconut water is beneficial due to its cooling properties and natural electrolytes; it can help balance your internal heat.

Avoid heating foods including spicy dishes, fried foods, and excessive garlic and onions. Minimize sour and salty tastes as these can also aggravate Pitta. Instead, use cooling herbs and spices such as coriander, fennel, and cardamom in your cooking. Fenugreek seeds soaked overnight and consumed in the morning can help too.

Alongside dietary changes, practice daily cooling self-massage (Abhyanga) using coconut oil, which has a natural cooling effect. Aromatherapy with sandalwood or rose essential oils can be calming to Pitta too.

Cooling beverages such as buttermilk or lassi, especially in the afternoons, can help maintain a consistent internal temperature. You mentioned herbal teas; mint and hibiscus flower tea are good but also try incorporating rose water in your drinks.

Lastly, pranayama (breathing exercises) such as Sheetali or Sheetkari can be practiced to cool down the body internally. Ensure to balance your activities, avoiding excessive caffeine and alcohol, as these can heat the body. Surya Namaskar (Sun Salutation) is beneficial, but practice it in the cooler hours of the day to avoid overheating.

If your symptoms persist or worsen, it might be prudent to consult an Ayurvedic practitioner for a more personalized assessment. They can provide further internal remedies and lifestyle adjustments specific to your prakriti, ensuring a harmonious balance.

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