Herbal Ingredients of Bhakhar: the Core Component in the Process of Fermentation of Chhotta Nagpur Rice Beer - Handia

Abstract

Bhakhar is the core component in the preparation of Chotta Nagpur rice beer - Handia, Daru and Kulu (Pueraria) herb beer. It is made up of pulverised, uncooked 'atap' rice (including the 'rice soaked water') and 'Ili-ranu' (i.e., rice beer medicine) at 20:1 ratio. Specified twenty eight herbs used in preparation of Bhakhar are documented and the method of its prepared was recorded. On the newly prepared raw Bhakhar - dust of a dozen old Bhakhars is applied. After three to four days, the raw cakes become full-fledged Bhakhars.