Traditional Herbal Drinks: Belimal, Ranawara & More

Sri Lanka, a land of lush greenery and rich Ayurvedic heritage, offers more than scenic landscapes and historic temples — it offers a healing touch through nature. Among its many gifts are traditional herbal drinks, time-tested infusions that have been part of local wellness practices for generations. These drinks not only quench thirst but also offer therapeutic benefits, crafted with ingredients rooted in indigenous knowledge. Let’s explore three of the most beloved herbal drinks: Belimal, Ranawara, and a few more hidden treasures.

1. Belimal (Bael Flower Tea)

Scientific name: Aegle marmelos
Local name: Belimal

What Is It?

Belimal is a calming herbal infusion made from the dried flowers of the bael tree. It’s amber in color, slightly floral, and often enjoyed warm or cool, sometimes sweetened with jaggery.

Health Benefits:

• Digestive aid: Excellent for relieving bloating and constipation.
• Detoxifying: Helps cleanse the stomach and liver.
• Cooling effect: A popular choice during the hot season to cool down the body.

How It's Made:

Boil a few dried bael flowers in water for 5–7 minutes. Strain and serve with or without sweeteners like palm sugar.

2. Ranawara (Senna auriculata)

Local name: Ranawara

What Is It?

Ranawara is a golden yellow blossom that produces a mild, earthy infusion. Commonly sold at roadside stalls and Ayurvedic shops, this drink is caffeine-free and known for its balancing properties.

Health Benefits:

• Blood sugar regulator: Believed to help manage diabetes naturally.
• Skin purifier: Used to detoxify and clear the skin.
• Relieves fatigue: Refreshes the body without caffeine or chemicals.

How It's Made:

Dried Ranawara flowers are boiled in water for about 10 minutes. The tea is typically served with jaggery or honey.

3. Polpala (Aerva lanata)

Local name: Polpala

What Is It?

Polpala is a tiny, bushy herb known for its powerful diuretic and anti-inflammatory properties. It's often used in traditional medicine to treat urinary tract issues.

Health Benefits:

• Kidney cleanser: Helps flush out kidney stones and toxins.
• Diuretic: Promotes healthy urine flow.
• Anti-inflammatory: Supports bladder and urinary health.

4. Kothalahimbutu (Salacia reticulata)

Local name: Kothalahimbutu

What Is It?

A lesser-known but potent Ayurvedic herb, Kothalahimbutu is widely used in managing diabetes and metabolic disorders.

Health Benefits:

• Balances blood sugar levels
• Supports weight loss
• Improves insulin sensitivity

Usually taken daily as a tea or in powdered form, this is one of the most researched herbs in Ayurvedic pharmacopoeia.

5. Iramusu (Hemidesmus indicus)

Local name: Iramusu

What Is It?

Iramusu is a fragrant root that creates a deep red, mildly sweet tea. It has a naturally pleasant aroma and is commonly served chilled.

Health Benefits:

• Blood purifier: Known to cleanse and cool the blood.
• Skin support: Helps alleviate eczema and acne.
• Stress reliever: Calming properties aid in relaxation and better sleep.

Why Choose Traditional Herbal Drinks?

These herbal infusions are not only rich in tradition but also:

• Caffeine-free
• Chemical-free
• Sustainable and eco-friendly
• Easy to prepare at home

Most importantly, they carry centuries of Ayurvedic wisdom, offering gentle, natural support for the body and mind.

Where to Find Them?

You can find these herbal drinks:

• At roadside tea stalls in Sri Lanka
• In local Ayurvedic shops or apothecaries
• Packaged for export in herbal tea brands
• Or even at cultural tea tasting experiences through eco-resorts and wellness retreats

Pro Tip: Try a Herbal Tea Tasting Tour

If you’re visiting Sri Lanka, consider booking a herbal tea tasting tour or Ayurvedic wellness retreat that includes a hands-on session with a traditional healer. You'll learn how to make these teas yourself and gain a deeper understanding of their role in Sri Lankan daily life.

In a world racing toward synthetic solutions, traditional herbal drinks like Belimal, Ranawara, Polpala, and Iramusu offer a moment of pause — a chance to reconnect with nature's remedies. Whether you're seeking relaxation, detoxification, or a cultural experience, these herbal infusions are worth sipping slowly and appreciatively.

Whether you're planning a wellness getaway or simply want to bring home a taste of Ceylon’s heritage, don’t miss the opportunity to explore these time-honored drinks. Book a cultural tea tour or visit a local market with Hi DMC to experience authentic Sri Lankan herbal traditions.

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