Karkidaka Chikitsa is an ancient Ayurvedic practice observed during the month of Karkidakam (July–August) in the Malayalam calendar. It is a unique therapeutic regimen that holds great significance in Kerala. This special treatment aims to rejuvenate the body, mind, and soul during the monsoon season when our immunity tends to be lower. During this time, people often follow a specific diet known as Karkidaka Kanji (Karkidaka gruel) to promote health and well-being. Here are some guidelines for the diet during Karkidaka Chikitsa.
• Karkidaka Kanji: The basic diet is Karkidaka Kanji, a nourishing gruel prepared from broken rice, grains, lentils, and medicinal herbs. It may help to promote digestive health, immunity, and bodily cleansing. Karkidaka Kanji is typically consumed twice a day, for dinner and morning.
• Herbal ingredients: The Karkidaka Kanji is prepared by adding various herbal ingredients known for their therapeutic properties. Some commonly used herbs include fenugreek, black cumin, dry ginger, long pepper, holy basil, and cumin seeds. These herbs are believed to have detoxifying and immunity-boosting effects.
• Light and easily digestible meals: Apart from the Karkidaka Kanji, it is recommended to consume light and easily digestible meals during this period. Include steamed vegetables, soups, herbal teas, and simple preparations of rice, lentils, and vegetables in your diet.
• Avoid heavy and oily foods: It is advisable to avoid heavy, oily, and spicy foods during Karkidaka Chikitsa. These foods may be harder to digest and can cause discomfort. Limit the consumption of fried items, processed foods, sweets, and excessive dairy products.
• Hydration: Drink an adequate amount of water throughout the day to stay hydrated. You can also include herbal teas, infused water, and warm water with lemon for additional benefits.
• Fruits and vegetables: Include a variety of seasonal fruits and vegetables in your diet. They provide essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Fruits like pomegranate, Indian gooseberry (amla), and vegetables like bitter gourd, snake gourd, and bottle gourd are considered beneficial during Karkidakam.
• Lifestyle practices: Along with the diet, traditional Karkidaka Chikitsa also emphasizes certain lifestyle practices such as regular exercise, meditation, yoga, and Ayurvedic treatments like Abhyanga (oil massage) and Swedana (herbal steam therapy).
Assistant Medical officer
Santhigiri Ayurveda & Siddha Hospital, Vellayambalam
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