Priya came to my clinic looking tired and frustrated. The 32-year-old had been struggling with persistent leucorrhea (white vaginal discharge) for months. Creams and antibiotics from her gynecologist hadn’t resolved the issue. As an Ayurvedic doctor, I knew the remedy that could help – tandulodaka.
Tandulodaka, or rice water, is a staple in Ayurvedic medicine. This potent liquid is prepared by soaking rice in water for several hours, then macerating the rice and straining out the liquid. The Ayurvedic texts praise tandulodaka for its ability to cleanse and cool the body, balance the doshas, and eliminate excess wastes and toxins. It acts as a natural astringent, anti-inflammatory, and hormone balancer.
How to prepare tandulodaka
1. Take 1 bowl (10 grams) of rice and wash it once.
2. Add 60-80 ml of water and keep it closed in a mud pot or stainless steel bowl for 2-6 hours.
3. Macerate the rice in the water for 2-3 minutes.
4. Strain and it’s ready to use.
5. You can sip on it throughout the day.
Here are some of the incredible benefits of this humble remedy
1. Treats leucorrhea and yeast infections
The astringent and anti-inflammatory properties of tandulodaka help treat the root causes of leucorrhea by cleansing the reproductive tract and balancing pH levels. I advised Priya to drink tandulodaka twice daily – and her symptoms improved within a week.
2. Alleviates burning sensations during urination
Tandulodaka is very soothing and cooling, making it an excellent remedy for UTIs and painful urination. It helps flush out bacteria and reduces inflammation.
3. Regulates heavy menstrual bleeding
The astringent effect of tandulodaka can help reduce heavy menstrual flow and minimize clots by encouraging proper uterine contractions.
4. Rejuvenates and brightens skin
Rice water has long been used as a natural skin toner in Asia. It tightens pores, smooths texture, and leaves skin radiant. Use it as a face wash or final hair rinse for silky locks.
5. Delivers medicine in Ayurvedic treatments
In Ayurveda, we often use tandulodaka as an anupana (vehicle) for administering herbal medicines. It enhances the absorption and efficacy of the herbs.
Interestingly, modern science is beginning to validate what Ayurveda has known for centuries. Studies show that rice water contains minerals, antioxidants, and starch that can improve skin health, soothe inflammation, and promote better digestion. The resistant starch in rice water also acts as a prebiotic, feeding the beneficial bacteria in our gut.
One clinical trial found that drinking rice water twice daily significantly improved symptoms of dehydration in children with diarrhea compared to plain water. Another study discovered that fermented rice water reduced skin pigmentation, roughness, and aging. It’s exciting to see ancient wisdom align with modern research.
The lesson here is that the simplest, most natural remedies are often the most powerful. Before turning to harsh chemicals or drugs, look to ancient wisdom. The cure for your ailment may already be in your pantry. Trust in the intelligence of nature, and allow your body’s innate healing mechanisms to flourish.
