Boiled Navara is a good weaning food for infants, particularly those with low body weight. Navara rice gruel made in cow milk improves lactation. It is also said to be great for anemic patients. Ayurveda acharyas suggest it as suitable food for people suffering from emaciation, rheumatoid arthritis, hemorrhoids, diabetes, tuberculosis, oligospermia, and also for improving lactation. Regular cleansing of the head with washed-away water of Navara rice 1 hour before bath is said to be useful to prevent premature hair fall.

Navara Kizhi and the Navara theppu treatments in Ayurveda make use of these nutritious Navara cereals. Powdered Navara is often mixed with milk and is consumed as porridge. This rice variety is also known for its religious significance, as it is sometimes used in temples for different religious ceremonies. During the winter season, recipes prepared with Navara rice are known to have a positive effect on building immunity.