Skin20 min
Khus and Sandalwood Cooling Pack for Summer Skin
A paste of khus powder, sandalwood and rose water on the back, neck and arms after a hot day, for a cool, fresh feel and prickly heat comfort.
Khus in everyday Indian homes
Khus (vetiver) is a grass with fragrant roots that cool the air when woven into summer screens. The roots are soaked in drinking water or sharbat as a traditional summer coolant.
Both khus and chandan are among Ayurveda's most cooling herbs. A body pack after a sweaty day feels soothing on heat-irritated skin; loose cotton clothes and cool baths help the most.
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp khus (vetiver) root powder
- 1 tbsp sandalwood powder
- Rose water or cool water
How to prepare
- Mix into a spreadable paste.
How to use
- Apply on the neck, back and arms for 15 minutes, then rinse with cool water.
- Use on very hot days.
Helpful habits
- Rinse roots well; dry them in the sun between uses.
Precautions
- See a doctor for rashes with fever or pus-filled bumps.
- Ready khus syrup is mostly sugar and colour; use roots where possible.
- Patch-test on the inner arm 24 hours before using on the face.
- Traditional use; scientific evidence is limited. Do not stop prescribed medicine.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use it on the face?
- Yes, if patch-tested; keep it away from the eyes.
Where do I get khus powder?
- From Ayurvedic stores, or grind dry khus roots finely.
Is khus the same as khus-khus?
- No, khus-khus is poppy seed; khus is vetiver root.
