Estimated reading time: 7 minutes
Drinking Water!
When we speak casually with someone, and want to describe how easy a task was, what do we usually say? Something like, “Oh, that was as easy as drinking water!”
But is drinking water really that simple? Is it such a “simple” subject? Absolutely not.
You might be surprised to know that there’s a vast science behind drinking water. Ayurveda explains hundreds of aspects regarding water in detail.
Let’s make an effort to understand at least a few of those today, and take a step toward better health.
According to Ayurveda, water is considered a food substance. Meaning, water is included as part of the food category. We can call it liquid food (Drava Ahara).
This implies that water too must be digested by our digestive system. So, it must be consumed mindfully and that mindful approach is what Ayurveda offers.
Let us try to understand water’s properties according to Ayurveda.
Three Types of Water Commonly Used for Drinking:
1. Boiled Water
Water that is directly heated and brought to a boil. Boiling water transforms the earth (Prithvi) and water (Jala) elements into the fire (Agni) element. Hence, the more it is boiled, the lighter it becomes for digestion.
Ayurveda lists many types of boiled water. But for daily use, the best is:
- Water that has been properly boiled, reduced to one-fourth of its volume,
- Free of froth and sediments,
- Clear and pure. This is considered good boiled water.
While boiling water, a few rules are recommended:
- Do not cover the vessel while boiling.
- Once boiled and cooled completely, do not reheat. This could lead to acidity and other disorders.
- Do not use water that was boiled the previous night — this vitiates all three doshas.
- After boiling, let the water sit in the same vessel for a while before using.
- Avoid drinking water when it’s too hot. It can burn the mouth, throat, and damage the digestive organs.
- If you drink cold water after hot water, it could lead to throat infections or congestion.
So, except for special situations, it’s best to drink warm or mildly hot water.
Medicinal Properties of Boiled Water:
- Reduces phlegm (Kapha),
- Decreases fat,
- Pacifies Vata,
- Enhances digestive fire (Agni),
- Cleanses the urinary system,
- Helps with flatulence, fever, and cough,
- Always considered Pathya (wholesome).
2. Warmed Water
This is water that’s been boiled and cooled completely / consumed warm. It is generally suitable for all. Specifically beneficial for:
- Those who consume alcohol,
- Those suffering from heat-related issues / in summers
- People with diarrhea, blood impurities, fainting spells,
- Excessive thirst, vomiting, or dizziness.
3. Cold Water
This is water that has not been heated/boiled. It must be stored in a fresh pot or vessel. This is definitely not refrigerated water.
Usually, cold water:
- Destroys the digestive fire,
- Weakens digestion,
- Can lead to various diseases.
Still, in some conditions, it can be beneficial — for example:
- People with Pitta constitution (who tend to have more body heat),
- Those with internal heat or burning sensations,
- People who’ve ingested poison,
- In blood disorders, intoxication, excessive bleeding, vomiting, and heat strokes.
Who Should Avoid Cold Water?
- People with back pain, joint disorders (Vata-related),
- Cold, throat problems, bloating,
- Fever (especially early stage),
- Those who eat rich, dense foods,
- Those with indigestion,
- Children, new mothers, and the older people.
When to Drink What Kind of Water?
Based on seasons, here’s what Ayurveda suggests:
- Winter (Hemanta, Shishira): Boiled hot water is best.
- Spring (Vasanta): Boiled hot water is good for health.
- Summer (Grishma): Cold or room-temperature water can be taken.
- Monsoon (Varsha): Boiled water is again the ideal choice.
- Autumn (Sharad): Warmed or cooled boiled water is suitable.
So for general health:
- In summer and post-monsoon hot weather, cooled or warmed water is good.
- In monsoons and winter, boiled hot water is best to preserve health.
How Much Water Should You Drink?
This is another important question.
Water is used up in the body in two ways:
- Unnoticed evaporation — through breathing and the skin,
- Sweat, urine, and stool — visible excretions.
People who do physical labor, live in humid coastal areas, or during summer. They naturally lose more fluids through sweating and evaporation. So they need more water.
Those who:
- Stay in air-conditioned environments,
- Sit for long hours, don’t do physical activity,
- Live in cold regions, or during winter. They lose less moisture, so they need less water.
To put it simply:
Drink as much as you lose. Lose as much as you drink.
To stay healthy, balance your input and output.
But calculating this every time is not easy. So, what’s the solution?
How Do We Know How Much to Drink?
The body gives us signals. These are called natural urges.
- When your body needs water, it gives you thirst.
- When your body needs food, it gives you hunger.
Ignoring these signals or eating/drinking without them causes health issues.
Most importantly:
Drinking when not thirsty or eating when not hungry is harmful.
Drinking water during hunger or eating during thirst is also unhealthy.
Ayurveda beautifully says —
Having both hunger and thirst together is a sign of good health.
The Ayurvedic Secret?
Best way to hydrate – Drink sips of water (not large gulps), and mouthfuls of food. It must be just enough to satisfy your thirst and hunger. Sipping water along with food is the best method! That’s when the body feels complete and nourished.
Having water before / after food has other consequences!
Let’s make water a conscious practice rather than a casual one. Because drinking water, done right, is one of the most powerful and simple acts for maintaining health.
Frequently Asked Questions
Not always. Warm or boiled water is best during winter, monsoon, or if you have digestion issues. But in summer or if your body feels overheated, room-temperature or slightly cooled water is fine.
Yes, generally cold water (especially from the fridge) can weaken digestion and cause imbalances. However, in cases of extreme heat, bleeding, or Pitta disorders, it may be beneficial.
There’s no fixed number. Drink only when you’re genuinely thirsty, and adjust based on your lifestyle, activity level, and weather. Don’t force water intake.
No. Reheating boiled water can create toxins and lead to acidity. Always boil fresh water and let it cool before drinking.
Yes — but only in small sips. Avoid drinking large amounts as it can dilute digestive fire. Sip as needed to help swallow and digest food better.
Medically Reviewed By – Dr. Sadhanashree P. BAMS, MD(Ayu)
Dr. Sadhanashree P., M.D. (Ayurveda), is a passionate Ayurvedic physician with expertise in Panchakarma and holistic wellness. As the founder of Arogyavardhini Ayurveda, she blends ancient Ayurvedic practices with modern lifestyle solutions. Dr. Sadhanashree is committed to spreading Ayurveda’s benefits through consultations, workshops, and rural health camps, empowering individuals and communities to achieve optimal health.
About Arogyavardhini Ayurveda
Arogyavardhini Ayurveda is dedicated to promoting holistic health through Ayurveda and Yoga. Led by Dr. Sadhanashree, the clinic offers personalized consultations, Panchakarma therapies, wellness retreats, and community outreach programs, including rural health camps and corporate wellness initiatives.
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Disclaimer
The information provided on this blog is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Please consult a qualified healthcare provider before making any changes to your diet, lifestyle, or treatment plan. This site may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission if you click a link and purchase something that we have recommended. Arogyavardhini Ayurveda is not responsible for any adverse outcomes resulting from the application of information found here.