Integrative Rotavirus Disease Management: A Siddha Perspective on Rice-Based ORS (Nerpori Kanji) Incorporated with Hybrid Protein–Carbohydrate Nano-Carriers

Abstract

Rotavirus-induced diarrhoea remains a leading cause of dehydration and morbidity among infants and young children, particularly in low-resource settings. Conventional oral rehydration solutions (ORS) effectively restore fluid and electrolyte balance but lack components that promote intestinal healing and sustained nutrient delivery. This review proposes an integrative approach from a Siddha perspective by combining traditional rice-based ORS (Nerpori Kanji) with hybrid protein–carbohydrate nano-carriers to enhance therapeutic efficacy. The objective is to improve rehydration while supporting gut recovery and microbiota balance. This paper discusses using rice starch and rice protein to enable controlled electrolyte release, improved bioavailability, and targeted intestinal action. The formulation was evaluated for hydration efficiency, nutrient delivery, and gut-supportive properties. Results indicate improved fluid retention, sustained glucose-mediated electrolyte absorption, and potential prebiotic effects that may aid in restoring gut integrity during rotavirus infection. This dual-action system integrates traditional dietary therapy with nanotechnology, offering a novel, cost-effective, and biocompatible alternative to conventional ORS. The findings suggest that rice-based biomaterials can be engineered to provide both rehydration and intestinal protection, with potential applications in paediatric care. Further in vivo and clinical studies are recommended to validate its therapeutic efficacy and scalability.