Written and Reviewed By:
Ayurvedacharya Dr. Gaurav Pathare, BAMS
Period: Full Jyeshtha, Ashadha, and partly Shravana (approximately late June to mid-August)
In Ayurveda, the seasonal routine Ritucharya is an essential part of preventive healthcare. Each season affects the body and mind differently and calls for specific lifestyle and dietary adjustments. Varsha Ritu (Rainy Season) is one of the most sensitive periods for health due to the combined effects of heat accumulation from the previous season and the sudden coolness and moisture in the environment.
Seasonal Impact on the Body
Agni (digestive fire) becomes weak due to sudden cold and increased humidity.
Dosha Effects:
Vata becomes aggravated due to cold, dryness, and irregularity in weather.
Pitta increases due to natural acidity and internal heat built up during summer. Symptoms of Pitta may remain hidden initially due to the external coldness.
The body’s overall resistance is weakened, making it prone to infections, indigestion, and joint problems.
Dietary Regimen (Ahara Charya)
What to Eat
Light, warm, oily, and easily digestible foods
Old grains (1 year aged): Wheat, Jowar, Rice
Pulses: Moong dal, Tur dal, Lentils (in moderation)
Dishes: Moong (yellow split mung beans) Khichdi, Upma (Semolina pudding), Moong Varan-Bhat, Jowar (Sorghum) Bhakri
Fats: Moderate use of ghee and oils
Spices & Digestives
Asafoetida (Hing), Garlic, Ginger, Mint, Black Pepper, Cumin, Coriander, Cinnamon, Onion
Special Items
Buttermilk (with rock salt)
Honey (small quantity)
Amaranth laddus (Rajgira ladoo)
Roasted gram flour (Sattu)
Horse gram (Kulthi flour)
Soups
Hot chicken/mutton soup with garlic, ginger, and asafoetida (in moderation)
Water Intake
Boiled and medicated water using:
Nagarmotha, Cumin, Dry Ginger (Sunthi), Coriander
Avoid chilled water; prefer warm or lukewarm water
Foods to Avoid
Raw and heavy-to-digest foods: Tubers, potatoes, sweet potatoes, peas, lentils, chickpeas
New grains, fermented foods (e.g., pizza, cheese)
Leafy vegetables (due to risk of worms and bloating)
Cold and damp-inducing items: Cucumber, sugarcane juice, ice cream, soft drinks
Excess dairy: Curd at night, yogurt, excess milk with salt
Meat and seafood (especially fried or fermented)
Sweets, fried snacks, and overly oily foods
Lifestyle Guidelines (Vihara Charya)
Do’s
Use warm water for bathing and washing
Apply oil (Abhyanga) and take steam (Swedana) regularly
Practice Basti therapy (medicated enemas) as part of Panchakarma
Ensure proper clothing and bedding to avoid exposure to cold wind
Use aromatics and disinfectants in the home environment
Don’t
Avoid day sleeping, strenuous physical activity, and walking in the rain.
Refrain from cold exposure and excess sexual activity (maximum once a fortnight)
Do not eat without hunger or overeat
Avoid sleeping late, mental stress, and irregular routines
Panchakarma for Rainy Season
In Varsha Ritu, the body is susceptible to Vata aggravation, and the digestive system is weak. Therefore, Panchakarma therapies help maintain balance and remove accumulated Doshas
Snehana (Oleation)—Internal and external application of medicated oils
Swedana (Sudation Therapy)—Fomentation or sweating therapy to open body channels
Basti (Medicated Enema)—Most effective treatment for Vata disorders in this season
Conclusion
The rainy season is a vulnerable time for health in Ayurvedic understanding. Adopting a season-appropriate regimen helps maintain balance, supports immunity, and prevents common seasonal disorders such as indigestion, joint pains, and skin diseases. Through mindful dietary practices, lifestyle adjustments, and therapeutic Panchakarma treatments, one can harmonize with nature and stay healthy during Varsha Ritu.
Reference
Ashtang Hridaya Chapter 3
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