Thazhuthama (Punarnava) helps to balance Vada-Kafa dosha, and also reduces body swelling. It’s also good for the health of the kidneys. Thazhuthama Ila Thoran is one of the most common dishes made using its leaves. The scientific name of Thazhuthama is Boerhavia diffusa. Here I present two easy Thoran recipes for you. 

Health Benefits of Thazhuthama

Thazhuthama or Punarnava, scientifically known as Boerhavia diffusa is a widely used medicinal herb in Ayurveda, especially in Kerala. It’s also known by the names spreading hogweed or red spiderling. As this plant is deeply linked to Ayurveda & Kerala’s traditional treatment & rejuvenation methods, consuming its leaves during the monsoon and Karkidakom month is regarded as good. Leafy vegetables are given much importance during this time.

Thazhuthama is primarily known for supporting kidney, liver, and urinary system health. Its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties support many Ayurvedic claims. This herb is also known for its healing power for wounds & injuries, blood purification, eye health, anti-ageing effects, respiratory support in asthma-related issues, joint pain, and many more.

Thazhuthama Ila Thoran (Recipe 1)

Thazhuthama Ila Thoran Recipe

Ingredients for Recipe 1

  1. Red chillies -3
    Cumin seeds – ¾ small spoon
    Coconut – ¾, scrapped
  2. Coconut oil – 3 big spoons
  3. Mustard – ½ small spoon
    Urud daal (Black gram daal) – 1 small spoon
  4. Thazhuthama (Hogweed) leaves, finely chopped – 3 cups
    Salt and turmeric powder – As required
  5. Toor daal (Pigeon pea) – 1/4 cup cooked

How to prepare Thoran – Recipe 1?

  1. Mix together ingredients no: 1 and crush well for thoran.
  2. Heat oil in a pan and sauté ingredients no: 3.
  3. Add the crushed coconut mixture to it and sauté well.
  4. Add ingredients no: 4 to it, mix well, and cook in low flame with the lid closed.
  5. Finally, add cooked daal and mix well.
  6. When the steam comes out, turn off the flame and serve with rice.

Courtesy: Vanitha Magazine July 15-31, 2016

Thazhuthama Ila Thoran (Recipe 2)

Thazhuthama Leaf Thoran

Ingredients for Recipe 2

  1. Thazhuthama leaves – Half cup
  2. Coconut oil – Two small spoons
  3. Mustard – ¼ small spoon
    Curry leaves – One sprig
    Dried red chilli – Two to three
  4. Grated coconut – Half cup
    Shallots – Six
    Garlic – Two cloves
    Cumin – 1/4 small spoon
    Green chillies – Two
  5. Salt – As needed
    Turmeric powder – As needed

How to prepare Thoran  – Recipe 2?

  1. Clean the Thazhuthama leaves well and chop them finely.
  2. Heat coconut oil, and splutter mustard, curry leaves, and dried red chilli.
  3. Crush the fourth set of ingredients in a mixer.
  4. Add to tempered items, along with sufficient salt, turmeric powder, and Thazhuthama leaves.
  5. Cook in a low flame, covered, without adding water.
  6. Once cooked, drizzle a little coconut oil on top and serve.

Courtesy: Vanitha Magazine, June 21 – July 4, 2025

Also read a few more leafy vegetable dishes. Here is the page link. Click on the images in the gallery to read. 

 

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