Media Release

Mangalore, Jul 21: Inspired by the ancestral regimen called Rithucharya, a special ayurvedic regimen for the season from Kerala, the Vishva Vaidya Ayurvedashram will celebrate the Karkataka Masa(aashada masa) in its new branch here at Nantoor.

Mid-July and to mid-August is observed as Karkataka Masa, when the incessant rains during the month cools the earth. The thridoshas-vatha, pitta and kapha increase in one's body due to the cold weather. Usually the season reduces immunity levels and body tends to be prone to colds, fever, acidity and body pain. Allergy and skin problems are also common to the season.

To face the seasonal changes that affect the body Ritucharya, a special regimen was used by our ancestors in Kerala. The particular regimen is called 'Karkataka Chikitsa', which improves the immunity levels and prevents one from diseases. The 'Karkataka Ganji' was recommended for the season which is prepared with 'Nyavara' (dark brown &small grain grown in Kerala) and decoction prepared out of various medicinal plats and herbs.

The Kanji or Ganji was consumed twice a day and other special treatments for the season include Kalari Chikitsa, Bahya abhyanga, Pizhichil, Elakizhi, Avagaha Sweda, Bashpa Sweda and Special Oil & Ghee Abhyanthara Snehapana.

People in coastal region and Malnad use a traditional medicine prepared from bark of a tree 'Pale mara' during the 'Aati Amavasya' in Ashad masa to improve immunity. However, consuming Karkataka Ganji through out the month is also recommended in ayurveda. A recent research says that the Ganji helps prevent cancer too.

Following the good response from the people for last year's Karkataka Chikitsa and keeping in mind the medicinal value of the 'Karkataka Ganji' Vishva Vaidya Ayurvedashram will provide 'Karkataka Ganji' to all those who under go Karkataka Masa treatments.