Most parts of the country are currently gripped by severe heat and heatwaves. With mercury levels already hovering above 45 degrees Celsius, the *Nautapa* period has now commenced. Lasting from May 25 to June 2, *Nautapa* comprises the nine hottest days of the year. During this period, planetary alignments are such that the sun's rays fall directly upon the Earth, causing temperatures to rise significantly.

Health experts warn that these days of intense heat pose a serious threat to health. The rise in temperature during *Nautapa* heightens the risk of heat-related ailments such as heatstroke and dehydration. During *Nautapa*, temperatures often soar past the 45-degree Celsius mark. In a report published in *Amar Ujala*, we previously highlighted how temperatures exceeding 45 degrees can create complications for various organs of the human body.

Health experts advise that, in addition to avoiding direct sunlight and heat during *Nautapa*, one must also exercise special caution regarding dietary habits. It is a common piece of advice that one should refrain from eating eggplant (brinjal) during the days of *Nautapa*. But what exactly is the rationale behind this, and what complications might arise from consuming eggplant during this period? Let's find out.

**Avoid Foods with a 'Heating' Nature During *Nautapa***

Health experts suggest that during the summer—and particularly during the *Nautapa* period—one should prioritize foods with a high water content that provide essential nutrients and electrolytes to the body, while also possessing a 'cooling' nature. According to Ayurveda, eggplant has a 'heating' nature (*garam taaseer*). It contains certain compounds that can exacerbate allergies, acidity, and various gastrointestinal issues.

Modern medical science also corroborates that consuming eggplant during this period can aggravate health issues in certain individuals. Eggplant contains specific constituents that may increase the risk of various ailments, ranging from allergies and inflammation to kidney stones.

**Why Should You Avoid Eating Eggplant?**

Health experts state that consuming eggplant during this specific period can lead to a variety of health complications.

In Ayurveda, eggplant is classified as a vegetable possessing a 'heating' nature. Consuming this during periods of intense heat can disrupt your digestive system, potentially leading to issues such as heartburn and acid reflux.

Eggplants naturally contain oxalates. During the summer—when the body is already prone to dehydration, and the kidneys are under increased strain—consuming foods high in oxalates heightens the risk of developing kidney stones.

Since eggplant is a vegetable with a "heating" nature (according to traditional beliefs), it generates internal body heat; this can exacerbate allergic reactions, manifesting as skin redness, itching, or rashes.

Who should exercise extra caution?

In certain health conditions, consuming eggplant may aggravate your symptoms.

Individuals with pre-existing allergies may experience itching, rashes, or swelling after eating eggplant.

According to Ayurveda, foods with a "heating" nature can worsen symptoms in patients suffering from hemorrhoids or skin disorders.

Patients with kidney stones are also advised to consume eggplant in limited quantities due to its oxalate content.

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