FEB 17, 2020

Kerala is a land rich in biodiversity and a hub of several unique traditional healthcare practices. As it lies closer to the equator, the six seasons or shad ritus mentioned in Ayurveda cannot be distinguished in Kerala. Nearness to sea and the Western Ghats bestow the land with unique climatic conditions, one of which is the presence of two monsoon seasons in Kerala: Southwest monsoon or the Edavapaathy begin by end of May or early June while the North-East monsoon or Thulavarsham begins from October.

The distinctive climatic conditions of Kerala seem to be the major contributor in the development of a variety of improvised and ethnic versions of Ayurvedic practices, including that of Rtucharya or seasonal regimen. It is considered that the time of South-west monsoon or Karkidakam, which falls in July-August, is the best time to eliminate toxins and rejuvenate oneself, as the body is highly receptive to medicines as all the pores of the body will open, leading to better absorption. The sudden change in climate from scorching heat to cool and humid monsoons results in the imbalance of the tridoshas leading to many diseases. As Kerala was an agrarian state, the arrival of monsoon and the incessant rains was the ideal time to take some rest from the usual hard labor and get revamped for the entire year through traditional Ayurvedic therapies and proper nutrition, suitable and apt for the season, also known as Karkidaka Raksha.

Karkidaka month or Ramayana masam

Karkidaka month, the last month of the Malayalam calendar is marked by heavy torrential and incessant rain and in ancient times, it was the month marked by karkidaka panjam or scarcity of food and famine because of decline in crop production. The prevalence of communicable diseases and death was also high. People spent the month chanting verses from the holy text of Ramayana, with great devotion to ward off the negative energy and gain spiritual strength for the family’s overall wellbeing. According to Hindu tradition, it is believed that sage Valmiki completed writing the epic Ramayana during this month. Karkidaka also marks the season of various other religious ceremonies: on the Amavasya or no moon day in Karkidaka (Karkidaka vaav), people pay Bali ritual or offerings to their dead ancestors on seashores and riverbanks. It is believed that departed souls attain moksha or liberation and achieve eternal peace if the ritual is performed on this day.

Marunnu kanji or Ayurvedic Herbal Porridge

The month of Karkidakam is the season when immunity is low due to the imbalance of tridoshas and drastic changes in the weather conditions, and so, several diseases can get aggravated. Various internal and external therapies are followed by people in Kerala in karkidaka, which help in preserving the Agni or digestive power, one such practice which enjoys immense popularity is the intake of Marunnu kanji ( Marunnu means medicinal ) or Ayurveda herbal porridge. Kerala Ayurveda understands the benefits of this preparation and made this into a any time of the year food.

Marunnu kanji / Ayurveda Herbal Porridge is a nutritious, light and health-enhancing rice gruel, which is made using Njavara rice, pulses, and herbs which are deepana- pachana, which improves digestion, boost metabolism and improve immunity.

Benefits of consuming Marunnu kanji

• Helps in detoxification of the body and boosts immunity
• Aids in digestion and rejuvenates the body
• Help keep seasonal ailments at bay
• Njavara rice used to prepare the Herbal porridge is an excellent anti-oxidant with numerous health benefits
• Reduces general fatigue and improves energy levels

Kerala Ayurveda Organic Ayurvedic Herbal Porridge

The preparation of Marunnu kanji varies vastly region wise. Kerala Ayurveda has selected the best formula among them all after meticulous analysis and study so that you get the best possible effect. Our rice porridge is fortified with selected spices and herbs which improve digestion, increase immunity, promote overall well-being and maintain the balance of tridoshas: Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. Usually taken as a meal once a day, this porridge is suitable for people of all age groups. Another great thing about Kerala Ayurveda Organic Ayurvedic Herbal Porridge is that it is made using 100% Organic ingredients!

Ingredients:

Njavara rice: Njavara rice is considered the best among the varieties of rice and has a short maturing span of sixty days. Njavara rice is nourishing and easily digestible and aids in the cleansing of the body. Loaded with Vitamin C, antioxidants, and fibre, Njavara improves immunity and digestion.

Green gram: Green gram, known as Mudga in Ayurveda is described in Ayurveda as the best among pulses. It is high in fibre and anti-oxidants, it aids in digestion and increases immunity. It is high in protein and essential amino acids like leucine, isoleucine, and valine. Carbohydrates present in Moong beans are easily digestible and thus cause less flatulence.

Horse gram: Known as Kulattha in Ayurveda, Horse gram is rich in iron, fibre and proteins. It improves virility, and has an ample amount of Vitamin B complex, and has been used in treating urinary and menstrual disorders since ancient times.

Methi: Methi or fenugreek is an excellent appetite builder and alleviates vitiated Vata dosha. It improves the secretion of breast milk (galactagogue), treats anorexia, and is extremely useful in relieving abdominal colic and bloating.

Herbal powders: Equal parts of-

• Turmeric: Turmeric supports the immune system and aids in proper digestion.
• Pepper: Pepper stimulates appetite, cleanses the body, helps fight cold and cough. It improves circulation and aids in weight loss.
• Dry ginger: mentioned as viswabheshaja or universal medicine, dry ginger is an appetizer, cardiac tonic and used in treating cough and respiratory diseases.
• Ajwain: Carom seeds are used in indigestion, bloating and improves circulation. It is a powerful cleanser and has anti-microbial activity.

Preparation:

1. Soak Horse-gram in water for 30 minutes.
2. Wash and pressure cook ingredients 1 to 4 with sufficient water to make a porridge.
3. Add powdered medicine (5) and coconut milk (optional) and warm in open flame for a minute. Mix well and serve warm.

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