Imagine a therapy that combines the nourishing qualities of rice and milk to rejuvenate your body and alleviate various ailments. This is precisely what Njavarakizhi offers – a unique Ayurvedic treatment that harnesses the power of nature to promote healing and well-being.
What is Njavarakizhi ?
‘Njavara’ refers to a particular variety of rice harvested in 60 days, renowned for its medicinal properties. ‘Kizhi’ means poultice or pouch made of cloth. Njavarakizhi is a rice poultice used to treat several health conditions.
Navarakizhi, also known as Shashtika Shali Pinda Sweda, is a specialized Ayurvedic therapy that combines the nourishing properties of milk and a unique type of rice called Shashtika Shali or Njavara rice. This treatment induces sweat, thus helping build muscle strength, restore the body, and decrease pain and stiffness caused by different musculoskeletal and neuromuscular conditions.
Unlike other Ayurvedic Swedana (sweating) therapies, Njavarakizhi also delivers deep nutrition to the tissues, making it ideal for rejuvenation.
The Unique Ingredients: Njavara Rice and Milk
Njavara rice steamed in milk and particular herbal decoctions constitutes the chief ingredient of the poultice or Njavarakizhi. As a nourishing medium, the milk also bolsters the therapy’s ability to strengthen and restore all of the body tissues, with specific emphasis on muscle and joint tissue.
Njavara rice is a unique grain that is rich in essential amino acids, antioxidants and vital nutrients that help repair damaged tissues. Unlike regular rice, Njavara is known for its Vata and Pitta-balancing properties, making it a preferred choice for conditions caused by excess dryness and heat in the body.
The Njavarakizhi Procedure
Njavarakizhi is a type of Pinda Sweda therapy, a specialized Ayurvedic sudation treatment. One of the key Pinda Sweda benefits is its ability to deeply nourish and rejuvenate the muscles while also relieving pain and stiffness
Njavarakizhi involves a very systematic and well-defined 3 step procedure:
Purvakarma (Preparation)
The first stage in which the body receives a full-body massage with medicated oils to get it ready for the main treatment. The massage relaxes the muscles and opens the channels for high absorption of the therapeutic substances.
The medicated oil is chosen based on the individual’s Dosha imbalance. For instance, Bala Tailam is often used for nerve-related disorders, while Dhanwantharam Tailam is used for post-surgical recovery and joint pains.
Pradhana Karma (Main procedure)
Here, the poultices prepared by filling the cooked Njavara rice mixture are heated and applied to the body. The therapist gently massages the whole body with the warm boluses paying attention to the specific areas that need attention. The heat and healing nature of the poultices allows deep penetration into the tissues, encouraging sweating and eliminating toxins.
Each session lasts between 45-60 minutes, and the treatment is performed in synchronized rhythmic movements to enhance its therapeutic effects. The continuous application of warm herbal rice boluses helps in cellular rejuvenation, improving circulation, and enhancing metabolic functions.
Paschat Karma (Post procedure)
The remaining paste is removed, followed by a gentle massage with medicated oils. It is important to take enough rest to help the body integrate the healing effects.
After the therapy, it is advised to drink warm herbal water or light herbal tea to support detoxification. Following a Pitta and Vata-pacifying diet also enhances the results of the treatment.
Benefits of Njavarakizhi
As an effective Ayurvedic therapy for joint pain, Njavarakizhi reduces inflammation, improves circulation and strengthens muscles, making it beneficial for arthritis and musculoskeletal disorders.
- Improves muscle strength: The treatment provides nutrition and strength to muscle tissues making it a most sought after treatment for muscle weakness or atrophy.
- Revitalizes the body: Njavarakizhi rejuvenates the body by promoting blood circulation and detoxification. Hence it imparts a sense of overall well-being.
- Reduces joint pain: The herbal decoctions used in the therapy possess anti-inflammatory properties that reduce joint pain and stiffness, providing relief in conditions like arthritis.
- Enhances skin texture: Regular Njavarakizhi sessions can make your skin firmer and more radiant.
- Balances Doshas: It helps in balancing the body doshas (Vata, Pitta and Kapha) and thereby maintaining health and harmony.
- Boosts energy levels: Unlike regular oil massages, Njavarakizhi strengthens the nervous system and restores physical energy, making it beneficial for those experiencing chronic fatigue or weakness.
- Supports digestion: The treatment has a positive impact on gut health by improving Agni (digestive fire), making it useful for individuals with weak digestion and poor nutrient absorption.
Njavarakizhi for Various Health Conditions
Njavarakizhi is a deeply rejuvenating Ayurvedic therapy that provides relief from various musculoskeletal, neurological, and degenerative conditions. Below are some key health conditions where this treatment is highly useful:
Arthritis (Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis)
Njavarakizhi is a highly effective Ayurvedic treatment for arthritis, particularly for conditions like osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. By improving joint mobility and reducing inflammation, this therapy helps patients manage arthritis symptoms naturally.
Njavarakizhi helps in:
- Reducing joint stiffness – The warmth of the herbal poultice goes deep into the joints thereby improving flexibility.
- Alleviating pain and inflammation – Milk and other herbal decoctions act as painkillers and soothe inflamed joints.
- Strengthening the joints and muscles – The therapy provides deep nourishment due to the presence of strong ingredients like milk and rice. Both of these have the property of slowing down the degeneration of joints and muscles.
For all these benefits, it is highly beneficial for people with chronic joint pain, stiffness, and swelling.
Muscular dystrophy and muscle weakness
Muscular dystrophy leads to progressive muscle weakness. Njavarakizhi helps in:
- Strengthening weak muscles – The therapy nourishes the tissues and improves muscle strength.
- Preventing further degeneration – Regular sessions slow down muscle loss.
- Improving mobility and flexibility – Heated medicated boluses relax the muscles and promote movement.
Paralysis (Hemiplegia, paraplegia and facial paralysis)
Njavarakizhi is commonly used for patients recovering from strokes, Bell’s Palsy or nerve damage as it is useful in:
- Stimulating the nervous system – The warmth and herbal properties of the treatment enhance nerve function.
- Improving circulation – Better blood flow aids in nerve and muscle recovery.
- Strengthening weakened limbs – Over time, the therapy improves muscle control.
Chronic back pain and sciatica
Back pain and sciatica are often caused by nerve compression or muscle strain. Njavarakizhi helps by:
- Reducing pain and inflammation – The therapy soothes the affected area by reducing any swelling.
- Relieving nerve compression – The warmth relaxes stiff muscles, reducing pressure on nerves. Hence it is an extremely useful therapy for herniated discs.
- Strengthening the spine and muscles – Regular sessions prevent recurring pain and strengthen the spinal muscles.
Neurological disorders (Parkinson’s, multiple sclerosis and neuropathy)
Neurological conditions affect the brain, nerves and muscles. Njavarakizhi offers:
- Nervous system rejuvenation – Helps improve coordination and reflexes.
- Muscle relaxation – Relieves spasms and stiffness.
- Better nerve conduction – Stimulates the nervous system for improved function.
Post-surgical and post-fracture rehabilitation
After surgeries or fractures, the body needs time to heal. Njavarakizhi is useful in:
- Speeding up tissue healing
- Restoring joint movement
- Strengthening the affected area
Sports injuries and muscle cramps
Athletes and fitness enthusiasts often experience muscle strain and injuries. Njavarakizhi:
- Heals damaged tissues faster as herbal ingredients promote repair.
- Reduces stiffness and soreness and hence is ideal for recovery after strenuous workouts.
- Prevents injuries and strengthens muscles and joints for better endurance.
Skin and anti-ageing benefits
Njavarakizhi is not only for pain relief. It also enhances skin health by:
- Nourishing the skin – Milk and herbal decoctions provide hydration and glow.
- Detoxifying the body – Sweating helps remove toxins from the skin.
- Delaying ageing signs – Reduces wrinkles, dryness and pigmentation.
For all these benefits, it is great for individuals with dry skin, early aging signs, or skin-related inflammation.
Precautions and Contraindications
Though Njavarakizhi is highly beneficial, a few precautions need to be taken:
- Fever: Anyone with an active fever should stay away from this therapy.
- Skin infections: Individuals with infectious skin diseases should avoid Njavarakizhi.
- Acute injuries: Wait until the acute phase has passed before opting for this treatment.
Njavarakizhi or Shashtika Shali Pinda Sweda is one of the best Ayurvedic treatments for strengthening the muscles, nourishing the tissues and enhancing overall vitality.
The main aim of this treatment is to prevent degeneration and inflammation that lead to various health conditions including arthritis and musculoskeletal and neuromuscular disorders.
So, if you are suffering from any of the above-mentioned conditions, visit an Ayurvedic hospital with qualified doctors. Your doctor will make a detailed diagnosis of your ailment and plan the treatment accordingly.
Njavarakizhi is a very specialized treatment to be done under the supervision of a doctor for the best results.
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