If you have ever seen a striking pink or deep red drink in a Kerala household or restaurant and wondered what it was, it was almost certainly Pathimugam water — one of the most distinctive and beneficial traditional drinks in Kerala Ayurveda.

What Is Pathimugam?

Pathimugam is the Malayalam name for the heartwood of Biancaea sappan — a tree native to tropical Asia. When a piece of dried Pathimugam wood or the herbal kizhi mix is dropped into hot water, it releases a deep red or pink colour along with a mild, slightly sweet flavour and a complex array of plant compounds.

Tikachi’s Herbal Kizhi Mix contains Pathimugam along with other traditional Kerala herbs — simply drop it into hot water and the colour change happens in seconds.

8 Health Benefits of Pathimugam Water

1. Cooling Effect on the Body: Pathimugam is known in Ayurveda as a body-cooling herb. It reduces internal heat, which in Kerala tradition is linked to skin problems, acidity, and fatigue.

2. Purifies Blood: Traditional use of Pathimugam includes blood purification — it is said to remove toxins and improve skin clarity through regular consumption.

3. Reduces Acidity: Pathimugam water is mildly alkaline and soothes the stomach lining. It is commonly drunk before or after meals to reduce heartburn and acidity.

4. Anti-Inflammatory: The sappanin and brazilin compounds in Pathimugam have documented anti-inflammatory properties. Regular consumption may help reduce chronic inflammation.

5. Liver Support: Used in Kerala Ayurveda as a hepatoprotective (liver-protecting) herb. Pathimugam water is traditionally given to support liver health and detoxification.

6. Skin Health: The antioxidant content and blood-purifying properties make Pathimugam beneficial for skin clarity, reducing blemishes and giving skin a natural glow.

7. Urinary Health: Pathimugam water acts as a mild diuretic and is traditionally used to support urinary tract health and reduce the risk of kidney stones.

8. Antimicrobial Properties: Studies have shown that Pathimugam extracts have antibacterial and antifungal activity, supporting the immune system against infections.

How to Make Pathimugam Water

The simplest method: Drop one piece of Tikachi Herbal Kizhi Mix (containing Pathimugam) into 500ml of hot water. Watch the water turn a beautiful pink or red. Let it steep for 5 minutes. Drink warm or cool. Add honey if desired.

Buy Tikachi Herbal Kizhi Mix at mytikachi.com — delivered across India.