Njavarakizhi is also known as shashtikashali $pinda swedam. Njavara in Malayalam stands for the rice (Shashtika Shali in Sanskrit) that grows in 60 days. Kizhi (Pinda in Sanskrit) stands for bolus. Njavara rice is considered to be the best variety of rice and has got a nourishing action. Njavarakizhi is a procedure by which the whole body or any specific part is made to perspire, by the application of certain medicinal drugs with Njavara rice puddings externally in the form of boluses tied up in a muslin bag.

The njavara rice is prepared with a combination of cow’s milk and the decoction prepared with vata reducing herbs.

Procedure

A generous amount of medicated oil is applied to the head and body. Then the body is massaged with warm muslin bag bolus containing njavara rice puddings cooked in the herbal decoction.

The boluses are dipped in the mixture of warm milk and herbal decoctions thus inducing sudation. The procedure is done in seven different postures. At the end of the procedure, the rice paste sticking over the body is removed using coconut leaves.

A gentle massage is given with warm medicated oil once again. The person is made to rest for 10 minutes.

Duration of the treatment

45 - 90 minutes

Indications

• Vata aggravated conditions
• Paralysis
• Muscular dystrophy
• Painful conditions in old age
• Strengthens the joints and muscles
• Promotes sound sleep
• Boosts immune system and slow the aging process
• Enhances body nourishment and rejuvenates
• Improves lustre and texture of the skin