Khus Sherbat: A Refreshing Summer Cooler with Health Benefits

As the scorching summer sun beats down, there’s nothing quite like a refreshing drink to quench your thirst and cool you down. Khus sherbat, a traditional Indian summer cooler made from the roots of the vetiver grass (commonly known as khus or khus-khus), offers not only a deliciously cooling respite but also a host of health benefits. In this article, we’ll explore how to make khus sherbat and delve into the numerous reasons why incorporating this refreshing beverage into your summer routine can be beneficial for your health.

How To Make Khus Sherbat

Making khus sherbat at home is simple and requires just a few basic ingredients. Here’s a quick and easy recipe to get you started:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup fresh vetiver grass roots (khus)
• 4 cups water
• 1 cup sugar (adjust according to taste)
• Juice of 2 lemons
• Ice cubes (optional)
• Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

• Wash the vetiver grass roots thoroughly to remove any dirt or impurities.
• Chop the roots into small pieces and place them in a large bowl.
• Add 4 cups of water to the bowl and let the roots soak for at least 6-8 hours, or preferably overnight. This will allow the flavor and aroma of the roots to infuse into the water.
• After soaking, strain the liquid using a fine mesh sieve to remove the roots, extracting as much of the flavorful liquid as possible.
• In a separate saucepan, heat the extracted liquid and sugar over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves completely. Allow the syrup to cool to room temperature.
• Once the syrup has cooled, add the lemon juice and mix well.
• Transfer the khus sherbat syrup to a clean bottle or jar and store it in the refrigerator.
• To serve, dilute the syrup with cold water or soda, add ice cubes if desired, and garnish with fresh mint leaves for an extra burst of flavor. Enjoy the refreshing taste of homemade khus sherbat!

Health Benefits Of Khus In Summer

In addition to its delightful flavor and cooling properties, khus sherbat offers several health benefits that make it a valuable addition to your summer beverage lineup. Here are five reasons why you should consider incorporating khus sherbat into your diet:

Natural Cooling Effect:

Khus sherbat has natural cooling properties that help regulate body temperature and provide relief from the heat during the sweltering summer months. Drinking khus sherbat can help you stay hydrated and refreshed, making it an ideal beverage for hot summer days.

Digestive Aid:

The roots of the vetiver grass contain compounds that aid digestion and soothe the digestive system. Consuming khus sherbat after meals can help alleviate indigestion, bloating, and other gastrointestinal issues, promoting overall digestive health.

Anti-inflammatory Properties:

Khus sherbat possesses anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation and swelling in the body. This makes it particularly beneficial for individuals suffering from conditions such as arthritis or muscle soreness, providing relief from discomfort and pain.

Stress Relief:

The aroma of vetiver grass has a calming effect on the mind and can help reduce stress and anxiety. Drinking khus sherbat can help promote relaxation and mental well-being, allowing you to unwind and de-stress after a long day.

Detoxification:

Khus sherbat acts as a natural detoxifier, helping to flush out toxins and impurities from the body. By promoting kidney function and improving urinary flow, khus sherbat aids in detoxification and supports overall kidney health.

Khus sherbat is more than just a refreshing summer beverage – it’s a powerhouse of health benefits packed into a delicious and cooling drink. By incorporating khus sherbat into your summer routine, you can not only beat the heat but also support your overall health and well-being. So why not whip up a batch of homemade khus sherbat today and toast to a cool, refreshing, and healthy summer ahead.

Image credits : KamranAydinov on Freepik