Known as Chaach or Chaas locally, buttermilk is one of the most refreshing drinks to quench thirst during summers and stay hydrated. It is a dairy product and so, comes with a laundry list of health benefits that one cannot ignore. Still, some people give it a miss due to its sour flavor and smell. To all such people, give this a good read.

Listed below are some of the benefits of buttermilk and ways one can include it in their skincare routine. This will give their body the nutrients it needs during the summer heat.

1. Packet of nutrients: Low in calories, buttermilk has a bunch of several other essential nutrients like vitamin B12, calcium, phosphorus, and riboflavin. These nutrients work in cooperation to promote healthy bones, skin, and immunity. So, a glass full of buttermilk every day is enough to keep a check on the nutritional needs of our body. It is best to satiate those hunger pangs one gets between the meals.

2. Immunity booster: Buttermilk is rich in lactic acid which gives it a probiotic property. It helps in fighting harmful pathogens and bacteria. It also eases the digestive system problems and strengthens the immune system, thus helping one to fight against infections, common colds, coughs, etc.

3. Great for the digestive system: Being a natural probiotic, Buttermilk helps in the growth of the “gut-friendly” bacteria that aids in better digestion. It also helps to regulate the acidity and heartburns one can get after having a spicy meal.

4. Keep a check on body heat: Buttermilk has cooling properties in it. It helps in bringing down the body temperature to bearable levels in summers. It is a natural refresher that de-stresses the body and reduces heat. It is also used to relieve post-menopausal symptoms like hot flushes by women.

5. Regulates body weight: As said before, buttermilk is low on fats and calories. Apart from this, after consuming it, one gets a feeling of fullness for a long time which means that one will feel less hungry. This helps in losing the extra Kgs. Since it is good for digestion and also regulates bowel movements, it further promotes weight loss. Buttermilk is easy and light on the tummy and also helps in absorbing nutrients from other foods as well, making it one of the best choices for low-fat diets.

6. Buttermilk and tomato juice blend for sunburn: Buttermilk contains vitamin A and C and so, by simply mixing the two, one can soothe their sunburns. It gives a cool feeling to the skin and relieves the skin of any burn or tan.

7. Buttermilk and honey for anti-aging: When mixed with honey Buttermilk acts as an anti-aging solution. Lactic acid (alpha-hydroxy acid) is present in many anti-aging creams and so the application of buttermilk on the skin can reduce signs of aging. It also exfoliates the skin making its tone a bit lighter. Honey is a natural cleanser. A mixture of both honey and buttermilk can restore the glow and bring upon miraculous results to the skin.

8. Buttermilk bath can bring back the baby-soft skin: Yes, you read it right. Simply add a cup of buttermilk and oats powder to your bathtub before soaking in it for around 20 minutes and witness the magic yourself. It is Cleopatra’s secret to radiating skin.

9. Buttermilk for hair health: If you have dry and damaged hair, then this remedy is for you. Add a banana and 2 tsp of honey in a cup of buttermilk. Apply this mask for 45 minutes and then wash it off. Buttermilk can act as a deep conditioner for your hair. So, ditch your post-wash applications of conditioners for this natural DIY. It will give you the bounce and shine your hair has been craving for a long.

10. Buttermilk added to orange peel acts as a skin lightening agent: Because of the presence of lactic acid, buttermilk helps in lightening the body tone. It is nature’s gift for removing tan and dark spots. For this pack, add grounded orange peel into a cup of buttermilk. Massage with it gently and leave it on the skin for 30 minutes before washing it off with cold water. Regular application of this pack will get’em the desired results surely.