Manjistha or Indian Madder is considered to be one of the best blood-purifying herbs. It is mainly used to break down blockages in the blood flow and remove stagnant blood.
Manjistha herb can be used both internally and externally on skin for promoting skin whitening. Applying Manjistha powder along with honey or rose water (at least 2-3 times a week) helps manage acne and pimples by inhibiting the growth of acne-causing bacteria due to its antioxidant property. Topical application of Manjistha oil and coconut oil reduces inflammation and skin rashes associated with acne due to its anti-inflammatory property. It is also helpful in keeping the hair shiny and healthy. Rinsing your eyes with Manjistha decoction might help control excessive watery discharge due to its astringent property.
As per Ayurveda, taking Manjistha powder after lunch and dinner helps manage diarrhea due to its Deepan (appetizer) and Pachan (digestive) properties. Consuming Manjistha on a regular basis might be good for diabetics as it lowers the blood glucose levels.
Excessive consumption of Manjistha might cause constipation due to its Guru and Kashaya properties. So, It is advisable to take Manjistha with hot water, if you already have any digestion-related problem[2-6][6][11].

What are the synonyms of Manjistha?

Rubia cordifolia, Indian Madder, Manjishtha, Samanga, Vikasa, Yojanavalli, Jingi, Lohitalata, Bhandiri, Raktanga, Vastrabhushana, Kalameshi, Lata, Manjeeth, Manjitti, Tamravalli, Raktamanjishte, Manjetti, Phuvva, Runas

What is the source of Manjistha?

Plant Based

Benefits of Manjistha

FAQs about Manjistha benefits

Does Manjistha have a role in acne?

Is Manjistha good for the heart?

Is Manjistha good for the liver?

Is Manjistha good for diabetes?

Does eating Manjistha cause constipation?

Is Manjistha safe for diabetics?

1. Skin disease
Manjistha is one of the most useful herbs to manage all types of skin disorders. An imbalanced Pitta dosha vitiates the blood and impairs its normal functioning. This causes skin problems like redness. Manjistha helps to purify the blood and treats all type of skin disorders. This is due to its Pitta balancing and Raktashodhak (blood purifier) properties.
Tips:
a. Take 1/4-1/2 teaspoon of Manjistha powder.
b. Swallow it with honey or water after taking lunch and dinner to get rid of the symptoms of skin disease.

2. Diarrhea
Manjistha is very useful to manage diarrhea. Diarrhea is known as Atisar in Ayurveda. It is due to improper food, impure water, toxins, mental stress and Agnimandya (weak digestive fire). All these factors are responsible for aggravating Vata. This aggravated Vata brings fluid in the intestine from various tissues from the body and mixes with the stool. This leads to loose, watery motions or diarrhea. Taking Manjistha helps to control diarrhea. This is because it improves digestive fire due to its Deepan (appetizer) Pachan (digestive) properties. This makes the stool thick and reduces the frequency of motion. Manjistha also controls bleeding because of its Kashaya (astringent) nature.
Tips:
a. Take 1/4-1/2 teaspoon of Manjistha powder.
b. Swallow it with honey or water after taking lunch and dinner to get rid of the symptoms of diarrhea.

Precautions when using Manjistha

Advice from Experts

Important

Ayurvedic View

Consult your doctor before taking Manjistha if you have hyperacidity or gastritis.

Breastfeeding

Ayurvedic View

Consult your doctor before taking Manjistha during breastfeeding.

Pregnancy

Ayurvedic View

Consult your doctor before taking Manjistha during pregnancy.

Recommended Dosage of Manjistha

Manjistha Churna - ¼ - ½ teaspoon twice a day
Manjistha Capsule - 1-2 capsules twice a day
Manjistha Tablet - 1-2 tablets twice a day

How to use Manjistha

1. Manjistha Churna
a. Take ¼ - ½ teaspoon of Manjistha Churna.
b. Swallow it with honey or water after taking lunch and dinner.

2. Manjistha Capsule
a. Take 1-2 capsule of Manjistha.
b. Swallow it with water after taking lunch and dinner.

3. Manjistha Tablets
a. Take 1-2 tablets of Manjistha.
b. Swallow it with water after taking lunch and dinner.

Benefits of Manjistha

FAQs about Manjistha benefits

Does Manjistha have a role in acne?

Does Manjistha have a role in wound healing?

Is Manjistha safe for the skin?

How to use Manjistha powder on face?

What are the benefits of Manjistha powder for hair?

Is Manjistha beneficial for eye diseases?

1. Wound healing
Manjistha helps in quick healing of the wound, decreases swelling and brings back the normal texture of the skin. A paste of Manjistha powder with coconut oil helps in quick healing and reduces inflammation. This is due to its Ropan (healing) and Pitta balancing properties.
Tips:
a. Take 1/2 - 1 teaspoon of Manjistha powder or as per your requirement.
b. Add coconut oil and make a paste.
c. Apply it on the affected area.
d. Leave at least 4-5 hours for quick wound healing.

2. Skin disease
Manjistha or its oil helps to control the symptoms of skin disease like eczema when applied on the affected area. Some of the symptoms of eczema are rough skin, blisters, inflammation, itchiness and bleeding. Applying Manjistha or its oil reduces inflammation and helps to stop bleeding. This is because of its Ropan (healing) property.
Tips:
a. Take 2-5 drops of Manjistha oil or as per your requirement.
b. Mix with Coconut oil.
c. Apply it on the affected area once or twice a day.
d. Repeat daily to get rid of the symptoms of skin disease.

3. Acne and Pimples
A Kapha-Pitta dosha skin type can be prone to acne and pimples. According to Ayurveda, an aggravation of Kapha increases sebum production which clogs the pores. This results in the formation of both white and blackheads. An aggravation of Pitta also causes red papules (bumps) and inflammation with pus. Manjistha helps in balancing Kapha and Pitta which helps to remove clogs and inflammation as well.
Tips:
a. Take 1/2 - 1 teaspoon of Manjistha powder or as per your requirement.
b. Add honey or rose water and make a paste.
c. Apply it on the affected area.
d. Wait for 1-2 hours.
e. Wash thoroughly with tap water.
f. Use this remedy 2-3 times a week for effective relief from acne and pimples.

Precautions when using Manjistha

Allergy

Ayurvedic View

Use Manjistha powder with rose water if your skin is hypersensitive.

Recommended Dosage of Manjistha

Manjistha Powder - ½ - 1 teaspoon or as per your requirement.
Manjistha Oil - 2-5 drops or as per your requirement

How to use Manjistha

1. Manjistha Powder
a. Take ½ - 1 teaspoon of Manjistha powder.
b. Add rose water to it to make a paste.
c. Apply it on the affected area.
d. Wait for 1-2 hours.
e. Wash thoroughly with tap water.
f. Use this remedy 2-3 times a week for effective relief from skin problems such as dermatitis and eczema.

2. Manjistha Oil
a. Take 2-5 drops of Manjistha oil or as per your requirement.
b. Mix with Coconut oil.
c. Apply it on the affected area once or twice a day to get rid of the symptoms of skin disease.

Frequently asked questions

Modern Science View

Manjistha is available in the market in the following forms:
1. Powder
2. Capsule
3. Tablets
They are present in the market under various brands. You can choose the brand and product according to your liking and requirement.

Modern Science View

Following are the steps for making Manjistha face pack at home:
1. Take Manjistha powder and mix it with honey.
2. Apply this pack for 10-15 minutes.
3. Later wash with lukewarm water.
4. You can also add Rakta chandan and rose water instead of honey.

Modern Science View

Yes, Manjistha has a good role in acne. It has good antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and anti-androgen properties. It inhibits the growth of acne-causing bacteria. Rubimallin in Manjistha reduces the inflammation associated with acne. It reduces the level of androgens in the body that stimulate the sebaceous glands to produce excess oil. Thus, Manjistha has good anti-acne activity[6].

Modern Science View

Yes, Manjistha is good for the heart. It might act as a calcium channel blocker to manage irregular cardiac rhythm. It has potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-platelet activities. It might prevent lipid peroxidation that damages the blood vessels. It also reduces platelet aggregation. Manjistha has diuretic and vasodilating properties. Thus, it might be beneficial in managing high blood pressure[10].

Ayurvedic View

Yes, Manjistha is good for the heart as it helps in maintaining a normal cholesterol level. It improves metabolism by reducing Ama (toxic remains in the body due to improper digestion). This is due to its Ushna (hot) nature. It also flushes out the toxins from the blood. This is because of its Raktashodhak (blood purifier) property.

Modern Science View

Yes, Manjistha is good for the liver. It has potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. It might prevent lipid peroxidation that damages the liver cells. It reduces the level of elevated liver enzymes in the blood. Manjistha might also be beneficial in case of acute and chronic hepatitis[11].

Modern Science View

Yes, Manjistha is good for diabetes. This is due to its hypoglycemic effect. It might help to lower the blood glucose levels. Manjistha also reduces the risk of diabetic complications due to its antioxidant property[11].

Ayurvedic View

Yes, Manjistha helps to manage high blood sugar level. This is because of its Tikta (bitter) taste. It also helps to improve metabolism by reducing Ama (toxic remains in the body due to improper digestion) due to Ushna (hot) nature. Apart from this, Manjisth corrects the impaired function of insulin, thus help control the blood sugar level.

Ayurvedic View

Manjistha can cause constipation due to its Guru (heavy) and Kashaya (astringent) properties. So, it is advisable to take Manjistha with hot water if you already have any digestion problems.

Ayurvedic View

Yes, Manjistha is safe for diabetics as it helps to manage high blood sugar level. This is due to its Tikta (bitter) taste.

Modern Science View

Yes, Manjistha has analgesic or pain relieving property due to the presence of certain constituents. Roots of Manjistha might help lower pain; however, the exact mechanism of action is not known[8].

Ayurvedic View

Yes, Manjistha might help relieve pain caused due to an aggravated Vata dosha. Manjistha has Ushna (hot) property which calms Vata and thus gives relief from pain.
Tip
1. Take 1/4-1/2 teaspoon of Manjistha powder.
2. Swallow it with warm water after lunch and dinner.

Modern Science View

Yes, Manjistha is beneficial in managing the symptoms of psoriasis. Psoriasis a skin disease, characterised by scaly and dry patches on the skin along with inflammation. The dry root of Manjistha helps reduce these symptoms. Also it gives relief from itching due to its anti inflammatory, analgesic and antioxidant properties[9].

Ayurvedic View

Manjistha is an effective herb to manage skin disorders like psoriasis. This is due to its Raktashodhak (blood purifier) and Pitta balancing properties. It helps to purify blood and pacify Pitta dosha which are some of the main causes behind skin disorder like psoriasis.
Tip
1. Take 1/4-1/2 teaspoon of Manjistha powder.
2. Swallow it warm water after lunch and dinner.

Modern Science View

Yes, the roots of Manjistha is beneficial in reducing the risk of kidney stones. Manjistha roots works by reducing the level of calcium and oxalate in kidneys and inhibits the growth of urinary stones. This is due to the antioxidant and kidney protective property of the roots[10].

Ayurvedic View

Yes, Manjistha might help prevent the formation of kidney stones. According to Ayurveda, kidney stones is considered as Mutrashmari. "Mutrashmari” (renal calculi) is a disease of Vata-Kapha origin which causes Sanga (obstruction) in the Mutravaha Srotas (urinary system). Manjistha has Ushna (hot) property which works on balancing both Vata-Kapha and prevents the formation of stones.
Tip
1. Take 1/4-1/2 teaspoon of Manjistha powder.
2. Swallow it warm water after taking lunch and dinner to prevent the formation of kidney stones.

Modern Science View

Yes, Manjistha helps to boost the immune system. This is due to the antioxidant property of Manjistha that helps to reduce oxidative stress and prevents cell damage. This further help improve immunity of the body[11].

Modern Science View

Yes, the root extract of Manjistha is beneficial in controlling stomach worms due to the presence of certain chemical constituents. However, the exact mechanism of action is not known[9][12].

Modern Science View

Manjistha is beneficial in managing jaundice due to its hepatoprotective (liver protective) property. Jaundice is generally associated with hepatitis and studies state that Manjistha has shown protective activity against hepatitis B. Also it prevents liver damage and normalise bile function[12].

Ayurvedic View

Manjistha is an effective herb to promote healthy liver function. This is because it helps to improve the digestive fire that makes digestion easy and reduces the load on the liver. Manjistha also has a property of Raktashodhak (blood purifier) and Pitta balancing that helps to purify blood and improve liver functions.
Tip
1. Take 1/4-1/2 teaspoon of Manjistha powder.
2. Swallow it warm water after taking lunch and dinner to improve liver functions.

Modern Science View

Yes, Manjistha is useful in reducing the risk of urinary diseases like uterine bleeding, urinary discharge or stones. This is due to its antioxidant, anti inflammatory, wound healing property. Also it is beneficial in case of urinary infections due to its antibacterial property[13][14].

Modern Science View

Manjistha might help manage the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis. This is due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Chemicals present in Manjistha inhibits the activity of an inflammatory protein. This reduces joint pain and swelling associated with rheumatoid arthritis[15][16].

Ayurvedic View

Manjistha is an effective herb to reduce the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis. It has Ushna (hot) nature which helps to reduce Ama (toxic remains in the body due to improper digestion) that increases the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis.
Tip
1. Take 1/4-1/2 teaspoon of Manjistha powder.
2. Swallow it warm water after taking lunch and dinner to manage the symptoms of diarrhea.

Modern Science View

Yes, Manjistha due to its ovicidal property helps to destroy the eggs of mosquito of filariasis. Also it helps to give relief from itching due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties[9][17].

Modern Science View

Yes, Manjistha has anticonvulsant property and therefore is beneficial in epilepsy. Manjistha has anticonvulsant property and works by managing certain chemicals in the brain responsible for seizures and epilepsy[18].

Modern Science View

Yes, Manjistha has a good role in acne. It has good antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It inhibits the growth of acne-causing bacteria. It reduces the inflammation associated with acne. Thus, Manjistha has good anti-acne activity when applied to the skin[6].
Tips:
1. Take root powder of Manjistha and mix with ghee.
2. Apply on the affected area[6].
Or,
1. Take the whole plant pulp of Manjistha.
2. Mix with honey.
3. Apply on the affected area[6].

Modern Science View

Yes, Manjistha has a role in wound healing. It promotes wound closure. It helps in the formation of new skin cells. Manjistha also has antibacterial property that prevents skin infection and promotes wound healing[11].

Modern Science View

Yes, Manjistha is useful for the skin. Glycosides present in Manjistha improves complexion and lighten dark spots. It acts as a natural blood purifier and makes your skin glow[9].

Modern Science View

Manjistha helps in the management of various skin diseases like acne, infections, wounds etc. due to its anti inflammatory, antibacterial and antioxidant properties. It also helps to improve skin complexion and reduce dark spots when used with honey[13][19].

Modern Science View

The powder of Manjistha roots are used as hair coloring agent and are also used in medicinal oil. It also acts as a tonic for hair roots[19].

Ayurvedic View

The powder of Manjistha roots are used as hair coloring agent and are also used in medicinal oil. It also acts as a tonic for hair roots[19].

Manjistha is an effective remedy to improve hair health. Manjistha powder can be used to manage hair problems like greying of hair. Applying Manjistha powder enhances the natural color of the hair.
Manjistha oil is effective in controlling hair fall. It helps to remove excessive dryness that controls dandruff and thus prevents hair fall.
Tip:
1. Take 2-5 drops of Manjistha oil or as per your requirement.
2. Mix with Coconut oil.
3. Apply it on the hair and scalp thrice a week.
4. Repeat once a week to prevent dandruff and control hair fall.

Modern Science View

Manjistha is beneficial in eye diseases like conjunctivitis, burning of eyes, watery eyes and cataract due to its anti inflammatory and wound healing properties. Because of this property, it is used in the preparation of kohl or kajal[13][20].

Ayurvedic View

Yes, Manjistha is beneficial for eye problems like watery eyes when Manjistha Kwath (decoction) is sprinkled onto eyes. This is due to its Kashaya (astringent) property which helps to control excessive watery discharge from eyes.
Tip
1. Make Manjistha Kwath at home by boiling Manjistha powder with four times the amount of water.
2. Strain it when quantity becomes one-fourth.
3. Cool down to normal temperature.
4. Sprinkle this Kwath onto eyes once a day.

References

Gupta AK, Tandon N, Sharma M.Quality standards of Indian Medicinal Plants, Vol 3, Indian Council of Medicinal Research.2005;307,315.
Shrotri MK, Ghavane RC, Mukunda U.Indian Drugs 2005;42(1):20-23.
Joshan RS, Nagarauk R, Anuradha P. Antibacterial properties of extracts of Indian medicinal plants: Syzygium alternifolium, Phyllanthus niruri, Rubia cordifolia.Biomed. Pharmacol. J.2010;3:123-128.
Bechtold T, Mussak R. Handbook of Natural Colorants.John Wiley & Sons Ltd.2009;151-82.
Oprika C.Characterisation of antibiotic-resistant Propionibacterium acnes from acne vulgaris and other diseases.2006.
Meena V, Chaudhary AK.Manjistha (Rubia cordifolia) - A helping herb in cure of acne.J. Ayu. Her. Med.3(2):1-17.",https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-557/madder,"Balkrishnan A.Manjistha.Ayurved Jadi Buti Rehsya. Danik Bhaskar.2017
Sharma K, Joshi N, Goyal C.Critical review of Ayurvedic Varṇya herbs and their tyrosinase inhibition effect.Anc Sci Life. 2015 Jul-Sep; 35(1): 18–25.
Patel A, Patel T, Macwan C, et al.Evaluation of anti inflammatory and analgesic activity of roots of Rubia cordifolia in rats.J. Pharm. Sci. & Res. 2012;2(12):809-813.
Bhatt P, Kushwah AS.Rubia cordifolia overview: A new approach to treat cardiac disorders. Int. J. Drug Dev. & Res.2013; 5(2): 47-54.
Divakar K, Pawar AT, Chandrasekhar SB, et al.Protective effect of the hydro-alcoholic extract of Rubia cordifolia roots against ethylene glycol induced urolithiasis in rats.Food Chem Toxicol.2010;48(4):1013-8.
Lodi S, Sharma V, Kansal L.The protective effect of Rubia cordifolia against lead nitrate-induced immune response impairment and kidney oxidative damage. Indian J Pharmacol. 2011;43(4):441-444.
Devi MP, Elenjikkal S. Pharmacognostic studies on Indian Madder (Rubia cordifolia L.).Journal of Pharmacognosy and Phytochemistry. 2013;1(5):112-119.
Verma A, Kumar B, Alam P, et al. Rubia Cordifolia – A review on pharmaconosy and phytochemistry. Int J Pharm Sci Res.2016;7(7): 2720-2731.
Sawhney R, Berry V, Kumar A. Inhibitory Activity of Rubia cordifolia plant extract against ESBL producing urinary E. coli isolates.J. Pharmacy Res., 2012;5(3):1328-1330.
Jaijesh P, Srinivasan KK, Bhagath KP, et aL. Anti-arthritic property of the plant Rubia cordifolia L.Pharmacologyonline.2018;1(1):107-113.
Kehmji JD, Vithal SB, HIteshbhai TT.Exploration in pharmacological screening of Rubia Cordifolia verses Ayurvedic documentation: A comparative validation.Journal of Pharmaceutical and Scientific Innovation. 2015;4(2):87-90.
Kanthammal S, Jebanesan A, Kovendan K, et al.Novel insecticides of Syzygium cumini fabricated silver nanoparticles against filariasis, malaria, and dengue vector mosquitoes.International Journal of Mosquito Research 2018; 5(5): 95-106.
Kasture VS, Deshmukh VK, Chopde CT.Anticonvulsant and behavioral actions of triterpene isolated from Rubia cordifolia Linn., Indian J. Exp. Biol.2000;38:675-680.
Sharma L, Agarwal G, Kumar A. Medicinal plants for skin and hair. Indian Journal of Traditional Knowledge.2003;2(1):62-68.
Sangeeta AB. Traditional use of medicinal plant Rubia cordifolia L. in the preparation of Kohl. International Journal of Herbal Medicine.2018;6(6): 120-121.

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Manjistha

What are the synonyms of Manjistha?

What is the source of Manjistha?

Benefits of Manjistha

FAQs about Manjistha benefits

Precautions when using Manjistha

Recommended Dosage of Manjistha

How to use Manjistha

Benefits of Manjistha

FAQs about Manjistha benefits

Precautions when using Manjistha

Recommended Dosage of Manjistha

How to use Manjistha

Frequently asked questions

Q. What forms of Manjistha are available in the market?

Q. How to make Manjistha face pack at home?

Q. Does Manjistha have a role in acne?

Q. Is Manjistha good for the heart?

Q. Is Manjistha good for the liver?

Q. Is Manjistha good for diabetes?

Q. Does eating Manjistha cause constipation?

Q. Is Manjistha safe for diabetics?

Q. Does Manjistha help in relieving pain?

Q. Is Manjistha beneficial in treating psoriasis?

Q. Does Manjistha protect against kidney stones?

Q. Does Manjistha help boost immune system?

Q. Is Manjistha beneficial in treating stomach worms?

Q. What are the benefits of Manjistha for jaundice?

Q. Is Manjistha useful for urinary diseases?

Q. What are the benefits of Manjistha for rheumatoid arthritis?

Q. Does Manjistha provide relief from filariasis?

Q. Is Manjistha beneficial for epilepsy?

Q. Does Manjistha have a role in acne?

Q. Does Manjistha have a role in wound healing?

Q. Is Manjistha safe for the skin?

Q. How to use Manjistha powder on face?

Q. What are the benefits of Manjistha powder for hair?

Q. Is Manjistha beneficial for eye diseases?

References