Body heat, also known as heat stress, is a common health problem caused by exposure to high temperatures. It occurs when the body is not able to cool itself enough to keep its temperature within the normal range of 36.5–37.5 degrees Celsius 97.7–99.5 degrees Fahrenheit. The body normally cools off by sweating, but sometimes sweating is not sufficient and the temperature keeps rising.

Factors like very hot and humid weather, spending too much time in the sun, wearing tight clothing, strenuous workouts or physical exercise and certain medical conditions may cause or worsen the problem.

Body heat is not a disease but it should not be taken lightly. If left untreated, it can develop into a heatstroke. Anyone can suffer from heat stress, but people over 65, babies and young children, pregnant and nursing mothers, and people who are physically unwell are at a higher risk.

It results in generalized weakness and lethargy, dizziness, headache, nausea, muscle cramps, excessive sweating and a rapid heartbeat. Plus, it is often accompanied by dehydration.

There are several easy yet effective methods to address this problem. Plus, it is recommended to move to a shady or air-conditioned area and remove tight clothing. Sponging with cool water will also be beneficial.

 

1. Cool Water

Cool water helps reduce body heat. It also helps the body recover quickly from the side effects of high temperature.

• As soon as you notice an increase in body temperature, drink a tall glass of cool water. Then, sip some cool water every 15 minutes. This will help prevent dehydration, which can worsen your condition.
• Another option is to add ice cubes to a foot tub filled with cool water. Immerse your feet in the bucket for 15 to 20 minutes.
• You can also enjoy a cool bath to reduce body heat.

2. Coconut Water

Coconut water is another effective remedy to help treat heat exhaustion. Its electrolyte composition isexcellent for rehydrating the body. Plus, it is loaded with nutrients that help lift your energy.

Drink a glass of tender coconut water a few times daily.

3. Lemon

Regular use of lemon can keep the body cool and prevent heat-related illnesses. The high vitamin C in lemon can help lower body temperature. It also hydrates and oxygenates the body to keep you feeling energized and refreshed during the hot summer days.

1. Squeeze the juice from ½ lemon into a glass of water.
2. Add 1 teaspoon of honey and a pinch of salt to it.
3. Drink about 3 glasses of this refreshing drink a day.

4. Sandalwood

The soothing and cooling properties of sandalwood can effectively reduce increased body temperature.

• Mix 2 tablespoons of sandalwood powder with enough water or cold milk to make a fine paste. Add a few drops of rose water and apply this paste on your forehead and chest. Allow it to dry on its own, then rinse it off with lukewarm water.
• Another option is to apply a little sandalwood oil on your forehead and leave it on for a few hours. If you have never applied sandalwood oil on your skin, add a few drops of this oil in one teaspoon of coconut oil and then apply to avoid skin irritation.
• You can also sprinkle sandalwood powder on your armpits, chest and back after taking a shower to maintain cooler body temperature.

5. Peppermint

Peppermint has a soothing and cooling effect. Thus, it is an effective remedy to help reduce body heat.

• Simmer a few ounces of fresh peppermint leaves in a pot of boiling water for 15 to 20 minutes. Strain out the leaves and allow the water to cool. Add the peppermint-infused water to a bathtub filled with cool bath water and soak in it for at least 20 minutes. You can also prepare a peppermint bath by adding a few drops of peppermint essential oil to cool bath water.
• Steep one teaspoon of fresh or dried peppermint leaves in a cup of hot water. Strain and sweeten with a little raw honey. Cool it in the refrigerator and enjoy your cool peppermint tea a few times a day. In addition to reducing body heat, it will also relieve nausea and headache.

6. Watermelon

Watermelon aids in quickly reducing body heat due to its high water content. A potent detoxifier, this fruit helps remove harmful toxins from the body, which can contribute to body heat. Eating watermelon regularly, especially during the summer season, will also help keep you hydrated.

• Eat a few slices of watermelon, or combine it with some cold milk and sugar to make a refreshing drink.
• You can also mix cubes of watermelon with cucumber and muskmelon. Then drizzle a little olive oil and balsamic vinegar over it to make a healthy salad.