‘Women’s Rice’? Interesting, isn’t it. We’ve hardly heard of varieties such as this, as they’ve been disappearing into the background with the introduction of modern ones.
Poongar Rice is an traditional unpolished red rice variety, indigenous to Tamil Nadu.
Farmers say that this crop can withstand and grow in drought conditions as well as during floods. Often mistaken for Mapillai Samba Rice due to similar appearance
Why its called women’s rice ? It has been known to be helpful in women’s health. Poongar consumed by women after puberty, is believed to avert ailments associated with the reproductive system. And especially beneficial to pregnant women and lactating mothers.
Appearance : It has a reddish brown appearance due to presence of anthocyanin pigments.
Taste : known to have a lovely nutty flavour.
Uses :
Ancestors say, beneficial for women :
is said to maintain hormone levels and regulate if needed
consuming this rice regularly before pregnancy does facilitate smooth birth and increased stamina.
Lactating mothers were advised by our ancestors to consume poongar rice for good milk secretion and stamina.
Rich in Iron & Vit B12: Believed to be high in micronutrients like iron and vitamin B12
Good mineral content, compared to modern rice varieties Other than Iron, Poongar rice is found to contain, Zinc, Magnesium, and Molebidinum.
Antioxidant rich, helps in non-communicable disease management: