“This is the time of the year when my phone keeps buzzing,” laughs Dr M R Vasudevan Namboothiri, former director of Ayurveda medical education department. “People keep calling with queries, just like you.”

Discussing the spike in interest, he explains that ayurveda equates a human body to the universe. “The changes in weather, environment, and food pattern will have an impact on the body too. Hence, ‘rithucharya’ or seasonal regimen is crucial in ayurveda.”

For example, as the intense summer gives way to the rains, the temperature cools down. “Just as the agni (fire/heat) in nature reduces, so will the agni within the human body. This can cause internal imbalance and consequent ailments,” says Dr Vasudevan.

“Moreover, during this period, our body’s immunity will be low. So, naturally, ailments set in — cold, caught, fever, fatigue, indigestion, inflammation, joint pains… the list goes on.”

Though ‘Karkkidaka treatment’ is a relatively new packaging, the concept is ancient. Ayurveda has texts and records about ‘varshakala’ (rainy season) treatment and rejuvenation.

These, however, have become more relevant in modern times. “Sedentary lifestyle, unhealthy food habits, being seated for long hours at work, and stress obviously take a toll on people,” notes Dr Remya Vijayan, assistant professor at Government Ayurveda Medical College, Tripunithura.