5 Desi Drinks to Beat the Summer Heat!

As summer sets in, temperatures soar, leaving us feeling exhausted, dehydrated, and drained of energy. While many turn to cold sodas, packaged juices, or energy drinks for relief, these often contain artificial flavors, excessive sugar, and preservatives that do more harm than good. Instead, India's rich culinary heritage offers an array of indigenous summer beverages that not only quench thirst but also nourish the body, providing essential nutrients and health benefits.

For centuries, traditional Indian summer drinks have been an integral part of households across the country, with recipes passed down through generations. These drinks are not just about hydration—they also have medicinal properties, help with digestion, and are tailored to combat the intense Indian summer heat.

Let’s explore five such cooling and refreshing indigenous Indian drinks that have stood the test of time.

Aam Panna is a beloved summer drink, especially in northern and western India. Made from raw mangoes, this tangy and sweet beverage is packed with vitamin C, making it a powerhouse for immunity. Traditionally prepared with a blend of mint, cumin, black salt, and jaggery or sugar, Aam Panna is known for its ability to cool the body and prevent heat strokes, a common occurrence during the peak summer months.

The reason raw mangoes are preferred for this drink is their high content of antioxidants, essential electrolytes, and digestive benefits. Unlike ripe mangoes, which are heavier on the stomach due to their natural sugars, raw mangoes have a cooling effect on the digestive system.
Beyond its taste and refreshing nature, Aam Panna is also highly beneficial for gut health. The combination of black salt and cumin aids digestion, while the presence of vitamin C strengthens immunity, protecting against common summer ailments like dehydration, sunburn, and heat-induced fatigue.
Many households in India prepare Aam Panna in large batches and store it in the refrigerator, serving it chilled throughout the day. Its tangy, slightly spicy taste makes it a favorite among both children and adults.
Sattu Sharbat, a hidden gem of Indian beverages, is a staple summer drink in states like Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, and Jharkhand. Made from roasted gram flour (sattu) mixed with water, lemon, and a pinch of black salt, this drink is a nutrient powerhouse, offering a perfect balance of protein, fiber, and essential minerals.

Unlike carbonated drinks that provide only temporary relief, Sattu Sharbat keeps the body energized for hours, making it an ideal drink for those who work outdoors or engage in physical labor. Since sattu is high in fiber, it aids digestion and prevents bloating, a common problem during summer when food tends to sit heavy on the stomach.
Another remarkable aspect of Sattu Sharbat is its cooling effect on the body. Gram flour has natural cooling properties, making it a great choice for people prone to heat exhaustion or dehydration. Additionally, the drink helps regulate blood sugar levels, making it beneficial for diabetics.
Though Sattu Sharbat is more popular in rural India, urban households are beginning to recognize its health benefits. Some even add jaggery instead of salt, creating a sweet version of the drink that’s equally refreshing.
Jaljeera is one of the most famous summer drinks in India, known for its tangy, spicy, and cooling properties. A blend of cumin (jeera), black salt, tamarind, mint, and other spices, this drink is a natural digestive aid and a refreshing alternative to aerated beverages.

Originally consumed as an appetizer in Indian households, Jaljeera has now become a popular street-side drink, especially in North India.
It is commonly served chilled with boondi (small, fried gram flour balls) floating on top, adding a crunchy texture to the drink.
The primary ingredient, cumin, is known for its medicinal properties. It helps improve digestion, reduces bloating, and has anti-inflammatory benefits. Mint, another key ingredient, provides a cooling effect while also acting as a natural detoxifier.
Apart from being a refreshing summer drink, Jaljeera is widely used as a home remedy for indigestion, acidity, and nausea. Given its unique combination of tangy and spicy flavors, it is often consumed before meals to stimulate appetite.
For those looking for an all-natural way to stay hydrated while also improving gut health, Jaljeera is the perfect choice.
Chaas, or buttermilk, is one of the oldest and most widely consumed summer drinks in India. Made from churned yogurt and water, this light and refreshing drink is often flavored with roasted cumin, salt, coriander, and sometimes green chilies for an extra kick.

What makes Chaas stand out is its probiotic content. Yogurt is rich in good bacteria that aid digestion and promote gut health. During summer, when the body is prone to dehydration and acidity, Chaas acts as a natural coolant, preventing heat-related issues such as acid reflux and stomach ulcers.
Chaas is deeply ingrained in Indian culture and is often served as a side beverage with meals, especially in states like Gujarat, Rajasthan, and Punjab. Unlike heavy dairy-based drinks, it is light on the stomach, making it an excellent post-meal refresher.
With its cooling properties and ability to improve digestion, Chaas is more than just a summer drink—it’s a natural health tonic that has been consumed for centuries.
Phalsa Sharbat is a lesser-known but highly effective summer drink made from the Phalsa fruit (Grewia asiatica), a small, tangy berry found in India. Packed with antioxidants, vitamin C, and cooling properties, this drink is a natural remedy for heat exhaustion and dehydration.

Phalsa is known for its anti-inflammatory and heart-health benefits. It helps lower body temperature, making it ideal for those who experience excessive sweating and heat-related fatigue. Additionally, its rich vitamin C content helps boost immunity, protecting against summer infections and skin issues caused by excessive sun exposure.
The tartness of Phalsa Sharbat, combined with a slight sweetness, makes it an enjoyable summer treat. Traditionally, Phalsa berries are crushed and mixed with sugar, water, and a hint of black salt, creating a refreshing and nutrient-rich drink.
Since Phalsa is available only during a short period in summer, those who love this drink often look forward to its seasonal arrival. Its unique taste and numerous health benefits make it one of India’s most underrated indigenous summer beverages.

India’s indigenous summer drinks are more than just beverages; they are a blend of tradition, health, and natural refreshment. While modern-day cold drinks and artificially flavored juices may provide momentary relief, they lack the nutritional benefits and healing properties of traditional drinks like Aam Panna, Sattu Sharbat, Jaljeera, Chaas, and Phalsa Sharbat.

These drinks have been cherished for generations, proving that nature provides the best remedies for seasonal challenges. This summer, instead of reaching for a can of soda, try one of these cooling and nutritious Indian drinks to keep your body hydrated and refreshed.