Ayurvedic Insight into Kshudra Dhanya: A Review on the Nutritional and Health Benefits of Millets

Background: Ayurveda the science of life, grossly classified into 8 limbs knows as Ashtaangas. There are other branches like the culinary science that remains less explored, which highlights the different branches of food edibles, food processing, dietary rules etc. The different branches of edibles are explained in different texts of Ayurveda. One such branch is the Kshudra Dhanya or the millets. Enriched with nutrients, they serve as the most preferred meal in today’s era of lifestyle disorders. But little is said, about the Ayurvedic view on millets. Objective: This article aims to highlight the varieties of Kshudra Dhanya (Millet) which marks up to 13 varieties; and nutritional analysis the different Kshudra Dhanya, and exploring their health benefits. Materials and Methods: A comprehensive review of Ayurveda classic, modern literatures and published scholarly article were done. This data has been analyzed, and reported in summarized view to explore the role of millets in prevention and treatment of Non-Communicable Diseases. Result: Millets contain high amount of dietary fiber, protein, vitamin and minerals. According Ayurveda millets mainly pacifies Pitta & Kapha Dosha along with maintaining homeostasis with Rakta Dhatu. It aggravates Vata Dosha when consumed for a prolong period. Millets are good for the individuals with gluten intolerance or celiac disease. Conclusion: In today’s fast pacing world, millets come as a boon to the society. Millets benefits in diseases like Obesity, Diabetes, CVD, Hyperlipidemia etc. attracts the people’s attention towards this poor man’s crop.