'Nani ke nuskhe': 7 best time-proven hacks to stay cool in hot weather

As India reels under a heatwave, we turn to seven time-tested nani ke nuskhe to help you stay cool in hot weather. There's nothing better than our grandmother's advice to fall back on when nothing else works. Read on for the best tips to stay cool this summer.

It sounds counter-intuitive, but capsaicin, a chilli pepper extract, helps release sweat, which helps the body cool down faster.

Adding some lemon slices and a few mint leaves to your water makes for a refreshing drink when braving the sun.

One of the best ways to avoid heatstroke is to cover your head, with a cap or a muslin cloth to prevent direct contact between the scalp and the sun's rays.

It's a known scientific fact that darker colours attract more heat, while lighter colours repel it. Opt for lighter colours like pastels, including white, when stepping out.

One basic but often overlooked fact is to keep yourself hydrated, and complete your target of at least two litres of water a day. Any less you get dehydrated, any more and you dilute the salts in your body.

It doesn't have to be an extensive bath, but splash your body with cool water twice a day and keep cool.

Heavier meals make you feel sluggish and low on energy. Eat small, light meals at various intervals through the day and maintain your energy.