In ancient India, long before modern antiperspirants, people relied on holistic Ayurvedic remedies and lifestyle practices to manage perspiration. These age-old methods focused on balancing the body’s internal heat and calming the mind.
Here are some tried-and-tested ancient Indian cures that may help curb excessive sweating the natural way.
1. Sandalwood Powder Paste
In Ayurveda, sandalwood is known for its cooling, astringent, and soothing properties.
How to use:
Mix 1–2 teaspoons of pure sandalwood powder with rose water or cold milk.
Apply the paste to areas prone to excessive sweating.
Let it dry for 15–20 minutes before rinsing off.
It helps reduce perspiration while leaving a pleasant natural fragrance.
2. Neem Leaves and Turmeric Wash
Neem and turmeric are powerful detoxifiers. Their antibacterial properties can also prevent body odour that often accompanies excessive sweating.
How to use:
Boil neem leaves in water along with a small piece of turmeric root or ½ tsp turmeric powder.
Let it cool and use it as a daily rinse or add to your bathwater.
This remedy purifies the skin and balances the pitta dosha (the Ayurvedic element associated with heat).
3. Amla Juice (Indian Gooseberry)
Amla is packed with vitamin C and helps cool the body from within.
How to use:
Drink 20–30 ml of fresh amla juice mixed with water each morning on an empty stomach.
Alternatively, consume it as a powder with honey.
Amla supports liver function and helps in detoxification—important for managing sweating.
4. Buttermilk and Coriander Drink
In Ayurveda, buttermilk (chaas) is a well-known cooling agent, especially when mixed with coriander or mint.
How to use:
Blend a cup of diluted yoghurt (or traditional buttermilk) with a handful of fresh coriander leaves and a pinch of cumin.
Drink once or twice daily in warmer months.
This not only cools the body but also supports digestion, which is closely linked to sweating in Ayurveda.
5. Rose Petal Water or Gulkand
Rose petals are known for their cooling and calming effects on the body.
How to use:
Add rose water to your drinking water.
Or take 1 tsp of gulkand (a sweet preserve of rose petals) twice a day.
This helps control heat-related sweating, especially on the face and upper body.
6. Lifestyle Practices: Yoga and Pranayama
Excessive sweating can also be linked to stress and emotional imbalance.
Try:
Daily yoga postures that reduce internal heat (like forward bends and gentle twists).
Cooling breathing techniques such as Sheetali or Sheetkari Pranayama.
These techniques reduce anxiety, regulate body temperature, and balance the nervous system.
⚖️ Ayurvedic Perspective: Balancing the Pitta Dosha
According to Ayurveda, excessive sweating is often a sign of an aggravated Pitta dosha. To bring it into balance:
Avoid spicy, oily, and fermented foods.
Favour cooling foods like cucumber, melons, coconut water, and leafy greens.
Stay hydrated and maintain a regular sleep routine.
Final Thoughts
Ancient Indian wisdom offers gentle yet effective ways to manage sweating by addressing both internal and external factors. While these remedies may take time and consistency, they offer a natural path to comfort—free from harsh chemicals or synthetic fragrances.
If excessive sweating continues to be a concern, especially if it's sudden or accompanied by other symptoms, it's important to consult a healthcare professional to rule out underlying conditions like hyperhidrosis or thyroid issues.
