What happens when you eat food during eclipse
The last total lunar eclipse will occur on the night of September 7-8, 2025, and it will be a full moon, which is also known as Blood Moon, because of the reddish colour of the Moon during the event. It gets this unique colour because of the shadow formed by the Earth when it passes directly between the Sun and the Moon.In an eclipse there is heightened energy that impacts the environment and our internal system in many different ways. Digestion and metabolism become greatly reduced at this time and hence Ayurveda advises that one should refrain from eating during the eclipse and it is ideal to fast during this time. For those who cannot fast, it is advised to eat light food. Take a look at the reasons, why food should not be consumed during eclipse as per cultural beliefs
Impurity of Cosmic Energy
As per experts, it is said that during an eclipse, negative cosmic rays or energies increase, which may contaminate food and water. Eating at this time is thought to invite impurities into the body and hence one should avoid eating during th eclipse time.
Impact on Digestion
Ancient texts suggest that the body’s digestive fire (Agni) weakens during an eclipse. Hence, consuming food when digestion is low was considered harmful for health. Since eclipses are seen as times of imbalance, fasting is also said to keep the body light and the mind focused on spiritual practices like meditation and chanting.
Growth of Microorganisms
If we go by the experts, traditional beliefs mention that food left out during an eclipse becomes more prone to bacterial growth, making it unsafe to consume later. And hence, it is suggested to avoid eating any food during the hours of eclipse.
Spiritual Purity
As per food experts, eclipses are seen as periods of spiritual significance. People often fast, chant mantras, and avoid eating to maintain a state of purity and focus on meditation.
Ritual Cleansing After Eclipse
As per many traditions, discarding cooked food after the eclipse and preparing fresh meals, symbolizing renewal and cleansing is considered to be a healthy practice.
Adding Tulsi Leaves
As per health experts, adding fresh tulsi leaves to food, water pots, and even daily meals not only helps prevent bacterial growth but also supports the bounce back of natural immunity and overall vitality. In older times, when refrigeration was unavailable, food was far more prone to quick spoilage and contamination. Tulsi leaves naturally helped slow bacterial growth, preserved freshness, and kept food safer for longer. According to several cultural and spiritual experts, eclipses were seen as powerful times when cosmic energies could potentially disturb the natural balance of life. Tulsi, long regarded as sacred and holy, was believed to safeguard food and the environment from negative energies, unseen forces, and energetic imbalances.
All Images Courtesy: istockDisclaimer: The information in this article is based on traditional Hindu beliefs and cultural practices. These rituals, including the use of Tulsi leaves during a lunar eclipse, are spiritual in nature and do not have a scientific basis. Readers are advised to follow them according to personal faith and discretion.