The Science of Staying Cool
When the heat is relentless, a cold drink offers only temporary relief. Curd, or dahi, works differently. It has a natural cooling effect on the body, helping to lower your core temperature from within. [1, 9] But the real magic lies in its nutritional
profile. Curd is a powerhouse of probiotics, the beneficial bacteria that support a healthy gut. [1] A healthy gut microbiome is believed to play a role in regulating body temperature. [27, 30] Furthermore, as you sweat, your body loses vital fluids and electrolytes. Curd-based drinks replenish these essential minerals, including potassium and sodium, making them excellent for hydration. [12, 8] They are also a great source of protein, calcium, and B vitamins, ensuring your body stays nourished even when the heat suppresses your appetite. [1, 17, 24]
The Daily Refresher: Chaas (Buttermilk)
Known by many names across the country—including Mattha, Neer Moru, and Majjige—chaas is the quintessential Indian summer cooler. [11, 7] Unlike its thicker cousin, lassi, chaas is a light, thin, and savoury beverage designed for hydration and digestion. [3, 4] It's made by whisking curd with water and seasoning it with ingredients like roasted cumin powder, black salt, and fresh herbs like mint or cilantro. [2, 6] The spices aren't just for flavour; ingredients like cumin are known to aid digestion, making chaas the perfect drink to have after a meal. [4] Because it’s light and lower in calories than lassi, it’s a drink you can enjoy daily to beat the heat and keep your digestive system happy. [15]
The Indulgent Cooler: Lassi
Originating from the Punjab region, lassi is a thicker, creamier, and more indulgent curd-based drink. [8] It is made by blending curd with milk or a smaller amount of water, giving it a consistency similar to a smoothie. [3, 13] Lassi comes in many varieties. Sweet lassi, blended with sugar and sometimes flavoured with rosewater or cardamom, is a popular treat. [2] Fruit-based versions, especially mango lassi, are famous worldwide. [2, 6] There is also a salted version, which is lighter than the sweet kind but still richer than chaas. [13] Because of its richness and high protein content, lassi is often considered more of a light meal or a filling snack than just a drink to quench thirst. [5, 15]
Southern Comfort: Sambaram
In South India, particularly Kerala, the go-to spiced buttermilk is Sambaram, also known as Morum Vellam. [7, 22] Like chaas, it is a thin, hydrating drink, but it has a distinct flavour profile. [20] Sambaram is typically spiced with finely chopped green chillies, fresh ginger, and curry leaves, which release their aroma into the cool buttermilk. [10, 22, 26] Some recipes also call for shallots or a pinch of asafoetida. [26, 10] This drink is a staple during festivals like Onam, where it is served to aid digestion after a heavy feast, but it is also a common household remedy for the sweltering summer heat, often served to guests as a welcome drink. [26, 7]
A Tradition of Taste and Health
Beyond these popular choices, India’s diverse culinary landscape offers many other regional curd-based drinks. In Maharashtra, you might find Piyush, a decadent drink made from shrikhand and buttermilk. [5] Bengal has Gondhoraj Ghol, which is flavoured with the fragrant Gondhoraj lime. [5] This long-standing tradition of turning to curd in the summer is a testament to its effectiveness. Homemade curd drinks are free from the artificial preservatives and sugars found in many packaged beverages, offering pure, natural goodness. [5] They are a simple, delicious, and incredibly smart way to stay hydrated, nourished, and cool when temperatures soar.
