Sunstroke is known as Surya Santap in Ayurveda. Surya Santap (heat exhaustion) leads to trishna (excessive thirst). Pitta dosha is primarily involved in Trishna of Surya Santap. It is characterized by a bitter taste in the mouth, a burning sensation in the head, a yellowish tinge in the eyes, fecal matter and urine besides unconsciousness. Persons afflicted with Trishna like to have cold drinks. Heat exhaustion is endemic to hot climates like India (long and severe summers). The person suffers from high fever, thirst, rapid pulse beats, absence of sweating, and confusion. A more severely affected person may lose consciousness altogether.

Common Recipes:

• Cold sponging all over the body is the simplest measure. For better results, add a teaspoonful of rose water to the cold water before sponging.
• The person should be given adequate liquids if the situation permits.
• If raw mangoes are available, boil two mangoes in two glasses of water for 15-20 minutes. Strain the boiled contents and give it to the affected person. Use half a cup or so at a time. You may add salt or sugar to it.