Ancient Indian wisdom has bestowed upon us numerous treasures that hold immense value and significance in our lives. One such forgotten gem of ancient Indian wisdom is the Panchamrit.
Panchamrit is a Sanskrit term that means ‘five nectars’ and refers to a sacred mixture of five ingredients that have great spiritual and medicinal significance in Hinduism. The five ingredients that make up Panchamrit are milk, curd, honey, ghee (clarified butter), and raw sugar.
According to Wikipedia
Panchamrita (Sanskrit: पञ्चामृत, lit. five Amṛtas) is a mixture of five foods used in Hindu as well as Jain worship and puja and Abhiṣeka[1] It is often used as an offering during pooja post which it is distributed as prasad.[2] There are regional variations in the ingredients used.[3] In Nepal and North India, usually honey(मधु), sugar(शर्करा), cow milk(दुग्ध), curd(दधि) and ghee(घृत) are used as the main ingredients.[4] In Tamil Nadu, Panchamritam (Tamil: பஞ்சாமிர்தம்) is a mixture of banana, ghee, honey, jaggery and cardamom. In addition, other substances like seedless dates and sugar candies are added.[5] Keralites may also include tender coconut. Some recipes also include grapes.[6]
The combination of these five ingredients is believed to be a powerful elixir that has great healing and rejuvenating properties. It is considered to be a symbol of purity and divinity and is used in various religious rituals and ceremonies.
The preparation of Panchamrit is very simple. First, milk and curd are mixed together in a bowl. Then, honey and raw sugar are added to the mixture and stirred until they dissolve completely. Finally, a small amount of ghee is added to the mixture and stirred again.
In Hindu mythology, Panchamrit is associated with Lord Shiva. It is said that Lord Shiva used to consume Panchamrit regularly and that it was his favorite food. It is also believed that the use of Panchamrit in religious rituals brings good luck and prosperity.
Apart from its spiritual significance, Panchamrit is also known for its medicinal properties. It is believed to boost immunity, improve digestion, and enhance vitality. It is often used as a remedy for various ailments such as cough, cold, and fever.
However, despite its great value, the significance of Panchamrit has been largely forgotten in modern times. With the advent of modern medicine and the decline in traditional religious practices, the use of Panchamrit has become less common.
But the value of Panchamrit cannot be ignored. Its significance in both spiritual and medicinal spheres is immense. It is a reminder of the deep connection between the physical and spiritual aspects of life, and the importance of maintaining a balance between the two.
Panchamrit is a forgotten gem of ancient Indian wisdom that holds immense value and significance in our lives. It is a symbol of purity, divinity, and balance, and its use can bring about great benefits for our physical and spiritual health. It is time for us to revive the use of Panchamrit and embrace this ancient wisdom for the betterment of our lives.
Palani Dhandayuthapani temple located in Tamil Nadu is popular for its unique panchamirtham which uses Virupatchi hill bananas grown in the surrounding Palani hills.[7] It received its unique Geographical indication in 2019 from the Government of India.[8]
