Description

Navara Rice / Medicinal Ayurvedic Rice

Navara Rice is one of the most precious and medicinal rice varieties of India, deeply rooted in Ayurvedic tradition. Native to Kerala, Navara Rice has been cultivated for centuries not as a commercial grain, but as a therapeutic food used in Ayurvedic treatments and recovery diets. This rice is traditionally grown in limited quantities and is highly valued for its healing properties.

Navara Rice is a short-grain variety with a natural golden-yellow to light brown hue. Once cooked, it becomes soft, slightly sticky, and easy to digest. Unlike regular rice, Navara Rice is not consumed for volume or satiety alone, but for nourishment, strength, and restoration of the body.

In Ayurveda, Navara Rice is considered balya (strength-giving) and brimhana (nourishing), making it suitable for people recovering from illness, injuries, or physical weakness.

Cultivation of Navara Rice

Navara Rice requires specific climatic and soil conditions, which is why it is traditionally cultivated only in select regions of Kerala. It grows well in water-rich paddy fields with clayey soil and follows a unique cultivation cycle of about 60–90 days, which is shorter than most traditional rice varieties.

This rice is cultivated using indigenous seeds and natural farming methods, without chemical fertilizers or pesticides. The crop is highly sensitive to environmental changes, making its cultivation labour-intensive and dependent on skilled farmers who preserve traditional knowledge passed down through generations.

Due to its low yield and high cultivation effort, Navara Rice remains rare and valuable.

Benefits of Navara Rice

Highly nourishing & strengthening
Navara Rice is traditionally used to restore strength and vitality, especially in people with weakness, fatigue, or muscle loss.

Excellent for digestion
Its soft texture and light nature make it easy to digest, even for children, elders, and people with sensitive stomachs.

Supports muscle & nerve health
Widely used in Ayurvedic therapies like Navarakizhi, this rice is believed to strengthen muscles and nerves.

Balances body heat
Navara Rice has a cooling and calming effect on the body, making it suitable for inflammatory conditions.

Supports recovery & convalescence
Commonly recommended during post-illness recovery, post-surgery care, and post-delivery nourishment.

Improves immunity
Its natural nutrients help improve resistance and overall wellbeing.

Best Buy Strategy

Navara Rice is a medicinal grain, so authenticity and purity are crucial. Choose rice that has a natural pale yellow or light brown colour, free from polishing and artificial treatment. Genuine Navara Rice is usually available only through trusted traditional sources.

Since it is minimally processed, it should be purchased in small quantities and used fresh to obtain maximum benefits.

Nutrients of Navara Rice

A ¼ cup of uncooked Navara Rice (approximately ½ cup cooked) contains:

Calories: ~150–160

Carbohydrates: ~32–35 g

Protein: ~4 g

Fiber: ~2–3 g

Minerals: Calcium, Iron, Phosphorus

Very low sodium

(Nutritional values may vary based on cultivation practices.)

Storage of Navara Rice

Uncooked Navara Rice should be stored in a dry, airtight container away from moisture. It can be stored for up to 6 months under proper conditions. Refrigeration is recommended for longer shelf life.

Cooked Navara Rice should be consumed fresh or stored in the refrigerator and used within 1–2 days, as it is best eaten warm and fresh.

Extensive Cultivation In

Kerala (traditional paddy fields)

Limited Ayurvedic farming regions

(Not cultivated on a commercial scale.)

How to Eat Navara Rice

Navara Rice is best consumed in simple preparations to preserve its medicinal value.

Use Pressure Cooker

Wash and soak the rice for 2–4 hours.
Use 1:2 water ratio.
Pressure cook for 2–3 whistles and allow natural release.

Use Open Pot Method

Soak for 4 hours.
Cook until grains turn soft and slightly sticky.
Drain excess water if required and serve warm.

Dishes Made with Navara Rice

Navara rice kanji (medicinal porridge)

Soft steamed rice with ghee

Post-delivery recovery meals

Ayurvedic therapeutic preparations