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In the Indian classic language of Sanskrit, “panch” means five and “amrit” means nectar. Panchamrit (also called panchamrut) is a drink or paste made with 5 everyday ingredients: milk, yogurt, raw sugar, honey and ghee.
Now – these are fridge and store-cupboard ingredients that are easily available in Indian households, and likely consumed in some form or the other throughout the day. So why is it considered a special concoction? Because, when mixed and made into this nectar, its combined Ayurvedic properties have some potent health benefits – and also finds its place in poojas, Hindu festivals and religious ceremonies throughout the calendar year.
There are several recipes on the Internet – some call for each of the five ingredients to be combined in equal measure – but this would lead to a rather greasy panchamrit! It’s to use higher amounts of milk and yogurt, with raw sugar, honey and ghee in lesser quantities.
Since you are making this at home for personal consumption and not to be distributed as prasad, you only need about 1 katori or bowl. You can combine:
Make sure that:
If possible, mix the ingredients in a silver or bronze bowl. Panchamrit is best consumed in the morning on an empty stomach.
(Note that in winter you can keep it outside for up to 12 hours, but in summer it goes bad in a couple of hours due to higher temperatures which can affect the non-homogenised dairy used in its preparation.)
While it is largely ingested, panchamrit can also be used topically, as a skin cleanser or mask. Honey contains natural antioxidant and antimicrobial properties, which protect the skin from the harsh rays of the sun. Raw sugar works as a natural humectant (hydrating agent). And the ghee helps nourish the skin and helps keep it firm and supple.
Panchamrit is an easy-to-prepare concoction that has immense nutritional benefits – you don’t need to wait for festival season, a pooja or a visit to the temple to have it. You can have a small amount each day and enjoy long-lasting good health!
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