Among the many therapies of Ayurveda, some stand out not just for their healing properties but also for their uniqueness. Njavara Kizhi is one such therapy—a deeply nourishing treatment that uses cooked rice boluses dipped in herbal decoctions and milk to massage the body. Unlike therapies that focus mainly on detoxification, Njavara Kizhi is aimed at rejuvenation, nourishment, and strengthening of tissues.
At Dr. Jasna’s Ayurveda Clinic, Njavara Kizhi is offered as a specialized therapy for patients with arthritis, muscular weakness, post-stroke rehabilitation, and degenerative conditions. It is also chosen by healthy individuals who wish to rejuvenate and strengthen their body naturally.
The name comes from Njavara, a special variety of medicinal rice grown in Kerala, and Kizhi, which means bolus or bundle.
In this therapy:
Njavara rice is cooked in a decoction of herbs and milk.
The rice is tied into small cloth boluses.
These boluses are dipped in the warm herbal decoction and used to massage the body.
This unique process provides simultaneous sudation (sweating) and nourishment—making it one of Ayurveda’s most distinctive treatments.
Njavara rice has been used in Kerala for centuries as a medicinal grain. Rich in nutrients, antioxidants, and rejuvenating properties, it is a staple in Ayurveda for treating degenerative conditions and improving strength.
Classical Ayurvedic texts describe Shashtika Shali Pinda Sweda, a therapy using special rice boluses, of which Njavara Kizhi is the Kerala tradition.
A typical session lasts 60–75 minutes:
Njavara rice is cooked in a decoction of medicinal herbs and cow’s milk.
The cooked rice is tied into small cloth boluses (kizhis).
The body is first massaged with medicated oil suitable for the patient’s dosha.
Warm boluses are dipped in the decoction and applied to the body in rhythmic strokes.
The process induces sweating while allowing rice to nourish the tissues.
After massage, residual rice paste is left on the skin for a short time before washing off.
Patients are advised to rest after the therapy.
Njavara rice – highly nourishing, anti-aging, strengthens muscles and nerves.
Herbal decoction – chosen based on patient condition (e.g., Bala, Dashamoola).
Cow’s milk – cooling, nourishing, rejuvenating.
Medicated oils – for pre-massage and enhanced absorption.
Deeply strengthens muscles, ligaments, and nerves, ideal for degenerative disorders.
Relieves pain and stiffness in arthritis, enhances mobility.
Supports rehabilitation in paralysis and post-stroke patients.
Nourishes and rejuvenates skin, leaving it supple and glowing.
By strengthening tissues and Ojas (vital essence), it builds long-term resilience.
Considered a Rasayana therapy, delaying signs of degeneration and aging.
Arthritis and rheumatic conditions
Muscular weakness and wasting
Post-stroke rehabilitation
Neurological disorders (multiple sclerosis, hemiplegia, cerebral palsy)
Degenerative bone and joint conditions
Sports injuries and muscle fatigue
General weakness and fatigue
Certain skin conditions needing nourishment
Elderly patients with degenerative disorders
Individuals recovering from paralysis or stroke
People with arthritis and joint stiffness
Athletes needing muscular recovery
Healthy individuals seeking rejuvenation and vitality
Patients with acute fever or infections
People with severe Kapha aggravation (excess mucus, congestion)
Certain skin conditions unless advised by doctor
|
Therapy |
Focus |
|
Abhyanga |
General relaxation and Vata balance |
|
Pizhichil |
Detox + rejuvenation with oil squeezing |
|
Janu Vasti / Greeva Vasti |
Localized joint and spine care |
|
Njavara Kizhi |
Whole-body nourishment + strength |
Patients who undergo Njavara Kizhi often report:
Significant improvement in mobility and reduced joint pain.
Better muscle strength and reduced fatigue.
Faster recovery from stroke or paralysis with continued therapy.
A sense of lightness, youthfulness, and energy.
Noticeable glow and improved skin health.
For holistic healing, Njavara Kizhi is often combined with:
Abhyanga – for overall Vata balance.
Pizhichil – for neurological and musculoskeletal disorders.
Basti – for systemic rejuvenation.
Shirodhara – for stress, anxiety, and neurological recovery.
Diet and Rasayana support – with nourishing herbs like Ashwagandha, Bala, and Shatavari.
Modern life leads to stress, sedentary habits, and early degeneration of joints and muscles. Njavara Kizhi offers a unique blend of relaxation, nourishment, and rejuvenation. Unlike treatments that only relieve pain, it rebuilds strength and vitality—making it especially relevant for today’s aging population, athletes, and those recovering from chronic illness.
Why patients choose us:
Authentic Njavara rice sourced directly from Kerala.
Personalized consultation for dosha assessment and therapy planning.
Trained therapists skilled in bolus massage technique.
Safe, monitored therapy under doctor supervision.
Holistic approach – combining Njavara Kizhi with Panchakarma, yoga, and diet.
Njavara Kizhi is more than a therapy—it is a journey toward strength, vitality, and rejuvenation. By combining the nourishing power of Njavara rice, milk, and herbs with the healing wisdom of Ayurveda, it strengthens the body, calms the mind, and restores balance at every level.
At Dr. Jasna’s Ayurveda Clinic, we bring authentic Njavara Kizhi to our patients, helping them recover from arthritis, paralysis, and muscle weakness while also offering rejuvenation and anti-aging benefits.
Book your consultation today and experience the power of Ayurvedic rice bolus therapy.
