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  • Writer's picture Geetanjali Chakraborty
    • Dec 31, 2015
    • 2 min read

Nutritional Wellness for Kids: Ayurvedic Kitchen First-Aid Kit and Delicious Treats

At Arti Chandnani's CampOkPlease summer camp on July 16th, I engaged with a group of young children ranging from 6 to 11 years old. Teaching children of this age group is both challenging and rewarding, as they provide insightful feedback on their level of engagement. Recognizing their need for dynamic presentation, I delved into the topic of "Introduction to Ayurveda," accompanied by practical recipes that they could encourage their parents to prepare, and even assist in making. Additionally, I curated a first-aid handout detailing Ayurvedic kitchen remedies for common childhood ailments.

The Ayurvedic first-aid kit comprises essential ingredients including clarified butter (ghee), ginger powder (shunthi), honey, chickpea flour (besan), nutmeg powder (jaiphal), bishop's weed (ajwain), and turmeric (haldi). Here's a snippet from the handout:

AYURVEDIC FIRST-AID KIT


  • Burns: Immediate application of ghee prevents blistering.

  • Cough: A mixture of turmeric and ginger powder, combined with honey, aids in relieving cough and fever. It's crucial to prepare this mixture fresh each time.

  • Cold: Consuming chickpea flour pancakes or besan halwa helps dry secretions. Additionally, applying a nutmeg paste on specific areas alleviates symptoms.

  • Tummy ache: Introducing ajwain into meals or consuming ajwain - infused water helps soothe stomach discomfort.

  • Scratches and falls: Drinking milk cooked with turmeric, cardamom, and ginger, along with other seasonal spices, aids in healing.


Here is a recipe video featuring my mentors, Chef Sanjai Mathur and Vedika Global Founder Shunya Pratichi Mathur:

Furthermore, I offered an Ayurvedic twist on cookies with wheat magic balls (atta laddoos), which garnered enthusiasm from the children. I also provided semolina pudding (sooji halwa) as a nutritious option for dessert or breakfast, emphasizing its warmth and suitability for children with robust digestion. However, caution is advised against its consumption during episodes of runny nose, constipation, or tummy ache, indicative of weaker digestion.


Below is a basic recipe for wheat magic balls:

Atta Laddoo Recipe (Makes about 15 pieces):

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup organic whole wheat flour (dry roasted)

  • ½ cup sugar

  • ½ cup nuts (dry roasted) - Alternatively, use black raisins for nut allergies

  • 1 tsp Gond (edible gum, dry roasted)

  • ½ tsp cardamom (finely ground)

  • ½ tsp ginger powder

  • Ghee (enough to bind the laddoos, warmed)

Instructions:

  • Step 1: Dry roast the wheat flour, nuts (if using), and edible gum separately.

  • Step 2: Grind the edible gum and nuts.

  • Step 3: Mix all dry ingredients thoroughly.

  • Step 4: Add warm ghee gradually to bind the mixture.

  • Step 5: Roll the mixture into laddoos and let them cool before storing in an airtight container.

Note: These laddoos can last for up to 6 months when stored at room temperature. Ensure dry hands while handling the mixture for optimal results.


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