Key Elements of Navarakizhi:

Herbal Ingredients:

• Navara Rice: A special type of medicinal rice known for its rejuvenating properties.
• Herbal Decoctions: The rice is cooked in a herbal decoction tailored to the individual's health needs, often including herbs like Bala (Sida cordifolia) and milk.

Therapeutic Benefits:

• Muscle Strengthening: Navarakizhi helps strengthen muscles and improve muscle tone, making it beneficial for conditions like muscular dystrophy and other degenerative muscle disorders.
• Joint Health: It provides relief from joint pain and stiffness, enhancing flexibility and mobility.
• Nervous System Support: The therapy is effective in treating neurological conditions, helping to calm the nervous system and improve function.
• Skin Nourishment The treatment deeply nourishes the skin, leaving it soft, smooth, and healthy.
• Detoxification: Navarakizhi aids in the elimination of toxins from the body, promoting overall detoxification and rejuvenation.

Procedure:

• Preparation: Navara rice is cooked in a herbal decoction and milk until it becomes a soft, mushy mixture.
• Formation of Pinda: The cooked rice mixture is then tied into small boluses (poultices) using a clean cloth.
• Application: The warm boluses are gently massaged over the body in a rhythmic manner. The heat from the boluses helps to open the pores and promote sweating.
• Duration: The therapy typically lasts for about 60 to 90 minutes, depending on the individual's condition and therapeutic needs.
• Post-Treatment Care: After the treatment, the individual is advised to rest and avoid exposure to cold and wind.

Holistic Approach:

• Mind-Body Connection: Navarakizhi not only provides physical benefits but also promotes mental relaxation and emotional well-being.
• Balancing Doshas: The therapy helps in balancing the body's doshas, addressing imbalances that may contribute to various health issues.

Frequency and Maintenance:

• Regular Sessions: For optimal benefits, regular sessions of Navarakizhi are recommended, especially for individuals with chronic conditions or high stress levels.
• Complementary Therapies: Navarakizhi can be combined with other Ayurvedic treatments such as Abhyanga (oil massage) and Shirodhara (head oil pouring) for comprehensive care.

Navarakizhi is a deeply nourishing and therapeutic Ayurvedic treatment that harnesses the healing power of Navara rice, herbal decoctions, and milk to promote muscle strength, joint health, and overall well-being. It is a holistic therapy that supports both physical and mental health, making it an essential part of Ayurvedic wellness practices.