Lord Rama's Panakam: A Holy Elixir Quenching Thirst

Panakam, a specialty of Ram Navami, is believed to be Lord Rama’s favorite drink from South India. It is rich in history as well as flavor. Believed to date back to around 1000 BCE, it was noted by food historian Madhur Jaffrey as one of the best culinary offerings. In Sanskrit, panakam means “sweet drink.” Made with jaggery, spices, and water, panakam goes beyond refreshment—it’s a symbol of cultural heritage and spiritual devotion. With the infusion of cooling components and aromatic spices, it offers both spiritual relief and physical comfort—a taste that carries the legacy of tradition across generations.

Recipe of Panakam

Ingredients

• Jaggery from sugarcane (Saccharum officinarum) – ½ cup

• Water – 2 cups
  (At room temperature or slightly cooled. Traditionally, panakam was stored in earthen pots, which naturally kept the drink cool)

• Dry ginger powder (sonth) (Zingiber officinale) – ½ tsp

• Powdered cardamom (Elettaria cardamomum) – ¼ tsp

• Lemon juice (Citrus limon) (optional) – 1 to 2 tsp

• Tulsi (Ocimum tenuiflorum) (Holy Basil) – a few leaves

Method

Dissolve jaggery in water. Unrefined, farm-fresh jaggery is the best. Stir well until it melts and forms a smooth, even texture. Add dry ginger, cardamom, black pepper, tulsi, and lemon juice. After adding all components, strain if desired. Salt can also be added for taste.

Health Benefits

It is generally considered a healthy drink. One cup of panakam contains 64 calories, of which carbohydrates comprise 100% of the calories, and it contains zero fat. Some studies show that it was used as a form of ORS in the past to cure sudden sunstroke, where sweltering heat and humidity draw out fluids and vital salts from the body through sweat. ^[1]

Panakam and Ayurveda

Panakam is born from Ayurvedic wisdom and harmonizes with seasonal wellness and traditions.

Balances Pitta Dosha
Jaggery and water serve as cooling agents, which aid in soothing excess internal heat and decreasing inflammation and dehydration.

Promotes Healthy Digestion
Spices, including dry ginger and cardamom, activate digestive fire (Agni) and help metabolism and gut health without increasing internal heat.

Electrolyte Replenishment
Jaggery, a natural source of potassium, magnesium, and iron, helps restore electrolytes lost through sweat and heat.

Revitalizing and Detox Support
When black pepper and tulsi combine, they help detoxify the body and deliver sustained energy. Rooted in Ayurvedic Rasayana principles, this blend supports rejuvenation and overall vitality.

Sattvic Beverage
According to ancient Ayurvedic texts, panakam is considered a sattvic drink—wholesome, well-balanced, and revitalizing to both body and mind.

The Ayurvedic text Kshemakutubala includes attributes of panakam, emphasizing its health benefits and nutritional value.

MedBound Times connected with Dr. Anagha M, and she shared her insights on this matter:

While very few studies exist on panakam, let’s examine its individual ingredients:

• Jaggery supports digestive health by stimulating bowel movements and preventing constipation, serving as a storehouse of fiber and minerals. It boosts immunity with antioxidants and vitamin C, offers respiratory relief as a natural expectorant, and helps regulate blood sugar due to its lower glycaemic index.

• Dry Ginger (Sonth) regulates cholesterol and relieves digestion-related ailments such as bloating. It’s effective against cold and flu symptoms, reduces menstrual cramps and nausea, and helps in balancing blood sugar levels through its zinc and bioactive compounds. ^[2]

• Cardamom promotes oral health by increasing saliva and balancing mouth pH. It may lower oxidative stress, improve insulin sensitivity, and help reduce blood pressure.

• Limes strengthen the immune system with high vitamin C, support collagen production, and help prevent kidney stones. Their flavonoids may reduce stroke risk, while antioxidants combat inflammation.

• Holy Basil (Tulsi), being a herbal adaptogen, enhances stress management, supports immunity and wound healing, and balances blood sugar and cholesterol.

• Black Pepper aids the absorption of nutrients like curcumin, protects against oxidative stress, and may benefit both heart and brain health.

Panakam in the Context of Hinduism

It is believed to be the favourite drink of Lord Rama and is offered to him during the festival of Rama Navami, which falls in March–April. It symbolizes devotion and gratitude towards Rama. After the offering, it is shared among devotees following rituals.

It is also offered to Lord Narasimha, and during Radhakalyanam and Thaipoosam.

In some parts of India, it is traditionally served at weddings.

Different Types of Panakam

• Drākṣādi Panakam (Grape-Based Variant)
  Panakam is prepared with grapes or dry black raisins as the base. In Ayurvedic treatments, it is often made as a syrup (paka) and used for treating Pittaj Madatyaya (alcohol-induced disorders). It reduces alkaline phosphatase levels, supporting the management of metabolic diseases.

• Nimbu Panakam (Lemon-Based Variant)
  A drink made with lemon juice, jaggery, and spices like cardamom and dry ginger.

• Tender Coconut Panakam
  Made using tender coconut water in place of regular water, along with jaggery and spices—offering a natural, electrolyte-rich drink.

• Panakam Flavoured with Rose or Saffron
  Brewed with rose water or saffron strands, this version is served during special occasions like weddings. As a sweet, cool drink, it symbolizes warmth, sweetness, and auspicious beginnings. Offering panakam to guests conveys hospitality, health, and simplicity.

Panakam as Offerings in Temples

A traditional sacred offering made with jaggery, water, spices, and edible camphor, served during worship rituals as prasadam.

Panakam and the Power of Moderation

Even the most beneficial drink can be detrimental if consumed in excess:

• High sugar content may affect blood sugar levels, particularly in patients with insulin resistance.

• It may lead to weight gain and dental concerns.

• Drinking panakam while already dehydrated may further compromise electrolyte stability.

Panakam is a rejuvenating sattvic drink that combines the opulence of cultural legacy with natural wellness. Though further studies are required to confirm all its health benefits, its hydrating and nourishing qualities make it a mindful, healthy alternative to modern, unhealthy choices.

References:

1. Sia. (2017, April 5). Rama Navami Panakam recipe: Jaggery Limeade ~ Healthy & refreshing summer drink. Monsoon Spice | Unveil the Magic of Spices... http://www.monsoonspice.com/2017/04/rama-navami-panakam-recipe-jaggery.html

2. Leech, Joe. "11 Proven Health Benefits of Ginger." Healthline, August 13, 2024. https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/11-proven-benefits-of-ginger.​

By Dr. Anjaly KTK

_MSM