MANJISHTA : Manjith, Indian madder, Rubia Cordifolia (Rubiaceae)

Manjishta is a perennial climber and like a vine it ‘spreads’ throughout the whole system, especially working on the arterial, circulatory system and skin.

It literally means ‘bright red’ attesting to its red roots which have an affinity for the blood and the red pigment can be seen in the urine.


Energetics :
Rasa (taste) Bitter, sweet, astringent
Virya (action) Cooling
Vipaka (post-digestive effect) Pungent
Guna (quality) Heavy, dry

Uses & Benefits of Manjishta

Manjishta is widely used both internally and externally.

It is a potent blood purifier and anti-diarrhoeal.

The herb is an appetizer, digestant, vermicide, and even destroys ama.

Manjishta is recommended in skin diseases associated with edema and oozing.

The herb is used in wounds and ulcers dressing, to dry them up and make them heal promptly.

Its decoction is used to wash the chronic wounds that are then dressed up with the external extract.

The roots’ powder, when mixed with ghee, is beneficial for the treatment of acne.

The paste of manjishta’s root removes freckles and discoloration of the skin.

When used with honey, the herb heals inflammation and gives the skin an even tone and smoothness.

It is good for treating gastrointestinal ailments like loss of appetite, dyspepsia and worm infestations.

Manjishta is used in a number of skin disorders, like erysipelas, eczema, acne, scabies and allergic manifestations.

The herb controls irritation of nerves and pacifies the mind.

The cold infusion of manjishta improves menstrual bleeding and relieves the pain in dysmenorrheal.

It is useful in post-natal ailments since it stimulates and cleanses the uterus.

It is an effective medicament for hoarseness of voice.

Since it is anti-diabetic, it is used for treating urinary calculi.

This herb is also used to cleanse and regulate liver, spleen, pancreas, and kidneys.