Summers, irrespective of location, are characterized by high temperatures and often bring a shift in the atmosphere. The days stretch longer, temperatures rise, and a sense of vibrancy fills the air. 


Summers in India are typically characterized by temperatures as high as 50°C, especially in the northern and central parts of India. Coastal areas experience relatively milder temperatures due to the influence of the sea. However, these regions experience high humidity levels during the summer, and this combination of high temperatures and humidity can make the weather feel even more uncomfortable. In certain regions, particularly in the north-western parts of India, summer is also characterized by dust storms or "loo." These storms bring hot, dusty winds that can reduce visibility and exacerbate respiratory problems.


Common Summer Ailments:

While warmth of the sun is welcome, excessive heat and humidity can also pose health challenges. Common summer ailments in India can vary depending on factors like region, climate, and individual health conditions. However, some prevalent ones include:


1. Dehydration: In hot weather, the body loses water through sweating, leading to dehydration if fluids are not adequately replaced. Symptoms include dry mouth, thirst, fatigue, headache, dark-colored urine, dizziness, and confusion. Natrum mur, Natrum carb, China, Acid phos, etc. are commonly used medicines.


2. Sunburn: Prolonged exposure to the sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays can cause sunburn, which is characterized by red, painful skin that may blister and peel. It increases the risk of skin cancer and premature aging.


3. Heat rash: Also known as prickly heat or miliaria, heat rash occurs when sweat ducts become blocked, leading to tiny red bumps or blisters on the skin. It's common in hot, humid conditions.


4. Food poisoning: Foodborne illnesses are more prevalent in the summer due to the rapid growth of bacteria in warm temperatures. Contaminated food or beverages can cause symptoms like nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and fever. Arsenic alb, Veratrum alb, etc. are used here.


5. Heatstroke: With temperatures soaring during the summer months, heatstroke becomes a significant concern. It occurs when the body overheats due to prolonged exposure to high temperatures and can lead to symptoms like high body temperature, rapid heartbeat, headache, dizziness, nausea, and confusion. Glonoine, Natrum mur, Natrum carb, Gelsemium, etc. are commonly used medicines.


6. Eye infections: Eye infections can be more common in the summer because people spend more time outdoors and are more likely to be exposed to irritants like chlorine in swimming pools. Symptoms of eye infections include redness, itching, and watering. Bell, Euphrasia, Apis, etc. are used in such cases. 


7. Vector-borne Diseases: Also, with the rise in temperatures, insects become more active. Mosquitoes, flies, and other pests can be a nuisance, leading to various vector-borne diseases, like Dengue, Malaria, etc.

  • Dengue is one of the most common mosquito-borne viral infection in tropical and subtropical regions, including India. It has become a significant public health concern globally due to its increasing incidence and geographical spread. Dengue fever is a viral infection transmitted primarily by the Aedes mosquito species, particularly Aedes aegypti (to a lesser extent, Aedes albopictus). Symptoms include sudden onset of high fever, severe headache, pain behind the eyes, joint and muscle pain, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, and a skin rash similar to measles. In severe cases it may lead to a severe and potentially life-threatening form known as dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF) or dengue shock syndrome (DSS). These severe forms of dengue can cause plasma leakage, severe bleeding, organ impairment, and, in some cases, death if not promptly treated. Eupatorium perf is best known medicine for dengue in Homeopathy. Snake remedies can be helpful in later stages when the haemorrhage (DHF) begins. These conditions should be strictly treated in hospitals.

  • Malaria is also another common illness now mostly endemic in most parts of the world, including India. It is a life-threatening disease caused by Plasmodium parasites transmitted to humans through the bite of infected female Anopheles mosquitoes. There are five parasite species that cause malaria in humans, with Plasmodium falciparum and Plasmodium vivax being the most common and deadly. The symptoms of malaria typically include fever, chills, sweats, headache, muscle aches, and fatigue. In severe cases, malaria can lead to complications such as severe anemia, respiratory distress, cerebral malaria (affecting the brain), and multi-organ failure, which can be fatal if not promptly treated. China, Chin-sulph, Chin-ars, Natrum mur, Cedron, etc. are some of the medicines used in Homeopathy. Malaria still remains a significant global health challenge, particularly in regions where it is endemic, and sustained efforts are needed to control the disease and ultimately achieve its elimination and eradication.


8. Water or Food borne diseases: These are illnesses that are caused by drinking contaminated water. Common waterborne diseases or conditions in India include diarrhea, dysentery, cholera, typhoid, jaundice, etc. These diseases can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasites. Medicines such as Arsenic alb, Veratrum alb, etc. are frequently used to counter such problems.

  • Cholera is a bacterial infection transmitted through contaminated food or water. It causes severe diarrhea, vomiting, and dehydration. During the summer, when sanitation may be compromised due to heavy rains or flooding, the risk of cholera increases. Camphor, Veratrum alb, Cuprum met, etc. can help prevent serious complications.

  • Typhoid fever: Another bacterial infection, typhoid fever, is transmitted through contaminated food or water. Symptoms include prolonged fever, weakness, stomach pain, headache, loss of appetite, and constipation or diarrhea. Baptisia is one of the most frequently used remedy here, but definitely not the only one.


Preventive Measures:

Preventive measures such as staying hydrated, avoiding prolonged exposure to the sun, practicing good hygiene, and taking precautions against mosquito bites can help reduce the risk of these ailments during the summer months in India. Here are some tips to help you stay healthy during the summer in India:

  • Drink plenty of fluids, even if you don't feel thirsty.
  • Avoid spending too much time in the sun, especially during the hottest part of the day.
  • Wear loose-fitting, breathable clothing.
  • Apply sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher before going outside.
  • Wash your hands frequently with soap and water.
  • Be careful about what you eat and drink. Only consume water that has been boiled or treated.
  • Avoid street food, especially during the summer months.
  • Protecting against mosquito-bites


Despite the challenges posed by the summer season, it is also a time for vacations, travelling and engaging in outdoor activities such as picnics, swimming, hiking, and sports like baseball, soccer, or cricket. People enjoy seasonal fruits like mangoes, leeches, grapes, melons, etc. to relieve from internal heat and dehydration.


Homeopathic Treatment:

Early detection and use of appropriate homeopathic medicines is the key to expeditious resolution of the disease and can help minimize potential harmful effects or transmission of communicable diseases.


Homeopathy is highly effective in treating all kinds of above-mentioned ailments. The commonly indicated medicines for various summer complaints are Apis mel, Aconite, Allium cepa, Arsenic alb, Belladonna, Bryonia, China, Euphrasia, Eupatorium perf, Pulsatilla, Veratrum alb, etc. Maintaining proper hygiene, following the preventive measures and timely visit to your nearest homeopath might save you from unnecessary hospital visits and a long-term illness. Self-diagnosis and self-medication are never recommended as it can be harmful. Choice of the right remedy in the right dosage should solely be left upon your homeopathic physician. Always seek advice of a qualified homeopathic physician before taking any medicines. For online consultation or any related queries consult our expert homeopathic doctors and book an appointment with us.





Disclaimer: The author disclaims all liability for any loss or risk, personal or otherwise incurred as a consequence of use of any material in this article. This information is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.