India, April 8 -- Summer at its peak can turn homes into warm boxes by afternoon. Air conditioners help, yet dry indoor air and rising power bills follow, making it a very uncomfortable space where you crave fresh air. In the middle of this heat, a familiar material from older Indian homes is making a comeback. Vetiver, widely known as khus, has cooled spaces across tropical regions for generations. That layer of jute-like material inside your coolers, yes, that is 'Khus' or Vetiver.

These woven root curtains sit across windows or doorways and release a refreshing, earthy scent once damp. A gentle breeze passing through the roots carries cooler air indoors. Along with temperature relief, the natural fragrance creates a calm and soothing ...