Rice-A Review of Nutritional and Medicinal Aspect Mentioned in Ayurveda

Abstract

Rice not only an essential food but also a source of protein. Ancient Ayurvedic Acharyas described Raktashali red rice as a nutritive food and medicine. Rice is the second most used cereals in the world next to wheat. Ayurveda have attributed some medicinal properties too in addition to main stay as food. According to Ayurveda rice has the ability to alleviate or subdue Tridoshas (humors) – Vata, Pitta and Kapha -whose imbalance causes various types of diseases within the body. Different groups of rice have different effect on human body as they have different inherent properties. From being used as a diet for sick it has been used as a wholesome and rice is considered as best food in some diseases mentioned in different Ayurveda text.