Peya
Dietary preparation
Modern description
A light, liquid diet preparation typically made with rice or grains, used to aid digestion and provide nourishment during illness or convalescence.
Purpose
Dietary preparation to aid digestion and provide nourishment
Indications
- Weakness, convalescence, fever (low grade), digestive weakness, diarrhea (early stages), dehydration, loss of appetite, postpartum care, promoting lactation
- Excessive thirst
- Dryness of mouth
- Fatigue
Classical indications
- Mandagni (impaired digestion)
Karma
- Deepana (mild)
- Pachana (mild)
- Anulomana (mild)
- Balya (nourishing)
- Tridoshahara (generally balances all three doshas)
Key ingredients
- Rice
- Water
Adult dose
1-2 cups, 2-3 times daily
Pediatric dose
As desired
Preparation steps
- Wash 1 part of rice (e.g., Basmati or Raktashali) thoroughly.
- Boil with 14 parts of water until the rice softens and breaks down, but the mixture retains some solid content.
- Lightly strain, allowing small rice particles to remain in the liquid.
- Serve warm with a dash of ghee or mild spices like cumin, ginger, or salt, according to dosha and condition.
Safety contraindications
- Peya is generally contraindicated in individuals with primary or secondary carnitine deficiency, porphyria or hypersensitivity to its ingredients. Also, it's not recommended when Kapha or Pitta are high.