Tag: history

Godaheeneti is a popular medium-grain red rice variety traditionally cultivated in Sri Lanka, which belongs to the heeneti type.The plant develops to a maximum height of 160cm. This crop can be harvested within 3½ months from seeding. The Goda Heeneti grain is brownish red in colour, its lemma and palea are brown. The potential yield is about 60 to 65 bushels per acre. Traditionally Goda Heeneti was a popular crop which could be seen cultivated at high elevations. Presently it is cultivated in all parts of the country.Traditionally it is believed that Goda Heeneti helps enhance the human immune system. Scientific studies have found evidence of medicinal properties useful for the treatment of inflammation, diabetes, cancer, neurological diseases, cholesterol and oxidative stress. Further, it is rich in proteins, vitamin E and naturally occurring antioxidants. Consumption with the bran is important in obtaining such valuable nutritional and medicinal properties.

Dik Wee is a medium-grain red rice variety traditionally cultivated in Sri Lanka.The plant develops to a maximum height of 150cm. This crop can be harvested within 4 to 4½ months from seeding. At the stage of ripening the plant stem becomes light bluish in color. The number of tillers per plant is 10 to 12, which is very high compared to other traditional rice varieties. It is resistant to lodging and has a good yield of 80 to 85 bushels per acre and commands good commercial value. It is a popular variety cultivated in the wet zone.Research indicates the presence of medicinal properties useful for the treatment of inflammation, diabetes, cancer, neurological diseases, cholesterol and oxidative stress. Consumption with the bran is important in obtaining such valuable nutritional and medicinal properties.

Dahanala is a long-grain red rice variety traditionally cultivated in Sri Lanka. The culm is about 120cm in height. This crop can be harvested within 3½ months from seeding. The number of tillers per plant is 4 to 5, which is low compared to other traditional rice varieties. The yield is also low at 30 to 35 bushels per acre. Dahanala is widely cultivated in the wet zone. It is susceptible to rice blast disease. However, it is resistant to the seedling pest called Trips.Traditionally Dahana rice is used in preparing porridge. Scientific studies have found evidence of medicinal properties useful for the treatment of diabetes and oxidative stress. Further, it is a rich source of protein and iron.