“NJAVARA” is a variety of rice, used in Ayurveda treatment “KIZHI” means “POUCH”
Shashtika shali pinda sweda also known as Navarakizhi is a Kerala specialty treatment in which the whole body or any specific part is made to perspire by the application of heated medicinal rice (Navara) puddings externally in the form of boluses tied up in a cotton cloth.
Requirements:
Mode of administration/procedure:
Complications
Indications:
Neuromuscular disorders-hemiplegia, paraplegia, Muscular wasting, Diseases of joints-osteoarthritis and other degenerative conditions, Rejuvenation therapy
Contraindication:
Acute fever, Inflammatory and painful conditions, myalgia, Gastro intestinal problems like diarrhoea, digestive disorders etc., Respiratory disorders – cough, breathing difficulty, Infections.
Njavarakizhi, also known as Shashtika Shali Pinda Sweda, is a traditional Kerala Ayurveda treatment in which the whole body or specific parts are made to perspire by applying heated medicinal rice pudding boluses tied in cotton cloth. The word “Njavara” refers to a special variety of rice used in Ayurveda, and “Kizhi” means pouch.
Njavara is a rare variety of rice that matures in just 60 days, which is why it is also called Shashtika Shali (rice harvested in sixty days). It is used specifically in this treatment because of its unique medicinal and nourishing properties that help strengthen muscles, improve circulation, and support deep tissue rejuvenation.
Njavarakizhi is indicated for neuromuscular disorders such as hemiplegia and paraplegia, muscular wasting, joint diseases including osteoarthritis and other degenerative conditions, and general rejuvenation therapy. It is especially beneficial for those seeking improved muscle strength and joint mobility.
The treatment involves cooking Njavara rice in a herbal decoction and milk, forming the mixture into four boluses tied in cotton cloth. Two therapists apply the warm boluses simultaneously on both sides of the body in a synchronized manner, after an initial oil massage. The boluses are continuously reheated to maintain the right temperature throughout the session.
A typical Njavarakizhi session lasts between 45 and 60 minutes, though the duration may vary based on the individual’s health condition and the treatment plan prescribed by the Ayurvedic doctor.
They are the same treatment referred to by two different names. Njavarakizhi is the common Malayalam name used in Kerala, while Shashtika Shali Pinda Sweda is the classical Sanskrit name used in Ayurvedic texts. Both describe the same therapy using medicated rice boluses for sudation.
