Everything You Need To Know About The Kitchari Cleanse

Ayurvedic medicine is one of the world's oldest holistic healing systems. It was developed more than 3,000 years ago in India and is based on the belief that health and wellness depend on a delicate balance between the mind, body, and spirit. One of the key focuses of Ayurveda is the digestive tract because when our digestive system isn’t functioning properly we are more susceptible to disease and illness. In fact, our gut health plays an important role in the physical, mental and emotional state of our bodies, which is why kitchari (a traditional cleansing food of Ayurveda) is given to all Ayurvedic patients. It's easy to digest, giving their systems a break to restore and heal themselves.

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Kitchari is basically a mix of rice, lentils, spices, ghee, and quick-cooking legumes like mung beans. The mung beans are blood purifying and provide protein and nutrients to nourish the body. The rice is easily digestible, while the warming spices add fire to our bellies and the ghee is said to lubricate the system allowing for a smooth passage of digestion. During a kitchari cleanse you should eat a bowl of kitchari three times a day for three to five days. You should also drink warm, herbal teas and water throughout the day and get plenty of rest and take time for self care (think oil massage, warm baths, yoga and meditation).

If you want to try the cleanse out for yourself, check out the video below from Alyssa Rimmer (also known as @simplyquinoa) on how to make kitchari at home. However, it is recommend you swap out the coconut oil for ghee and avoid using vegetable stock for the best results.

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