Satyori — Manjistha (Manjistha) Herb Quick Card
Herb Quick Card
Manjistha
Manjistha · Rubia cordifolia
Traditional Uses
The Charaka Samhita prescribes Manjistha as the primary herb for all conditions involving Rakta Dushti (blood vitiation), including Kushtha (skin diseases), Visarpa (erysipelas and spreading skin eruptions), Vrana (wounds and ulcers), Raktapitta (bleeding disorders), and Shotha (inflammatory swelling). Charaka specifically notes its Varnya (complexion-enhancing) property, prescribing it for Vyanga (hyperpigmentation/melasma) and Nilika (dark spots), making it one of the earliest documented treatments for pigmentary skin disorders. The Sushruta Samhita expands on these dermatological applications and adds prescriptions for Prameha (metabolic/urinary disorders), Arsha (hemorrhoids), and Bhagandara (fistula-in-ano).
Preparations
Churna (powder): 3-6g with warm water, milk, or honey twice daily. Manjisthadyarishta (fermented preparation): 15-30ml with equal water after meals. Mahamanjishthadi Kashayam (decoction): 15-30ml twice daily.
Dosage
Powder: 3-6g per day in divided doses. Manjisthadyarishta: 15-30ml twice daily after meals, diluted with equal water.
Dosha Guidance
Manjistha is most beneficial for Pitta types, whose tendency toward blood heat, inflammatory skin conditions, and excess liver heat finds an ideal corrective in this powerful blood purifier. Pitta individuals can use Manjistha as their primary skin and blood tonic, taking it with ghee or milk for enhanced cooling and nourishing effects. It is particularly valuable for Pitta types during summer when blood heat and skin reactivity peak.
Synergistic Combinations
Pairs synergistically with Neem for comprehensive blood purification and skin conditions. Combined with Sariva (Hemidesmus) for deep blood cleansing with cooling action.
Contraindications
Use with caution during pregnancy, particularly in the first trimester, due to its potential effects on uterine circulation. Those on anticoagulant or antiplatelet medications should exercise caution, as Manjistha may influence blood coagulation parameters. Avoid in cases of acute heavy menstrual bleeding until the acute phase resolves, as the herb's initial action may temporarily increase blood flow before regulating it.
Tissues & Channels
Dhatus: Rakta dhatu (blood tissue, primary), Mamsa dhatu (muscle tissue), Asthi dhatu (bone tissue), Meda dhatu (fat tissue)
Srotas: Rakta vaha srotas (blood channel, primary), Artava vaha srotas (female reproductive channel), Mutra vaha srotas (urinary channel), Rasa vaha srotas (lymphatic channel)
Where to Buy
Quality Manjistha root should be reddish-brown externally with a distinctly red interior when broken. The root pieces should be firm, not soft or powdery, and should stain the fingers red when handled.
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Herbal Profile
Manjistha is one of 50 herbs — but which ones are right for your body? Your Herbal Profile reveals your top 10 herbs, herbs to avoid, best preparations, seasonal calendar, and a daily protocol matched to your dosha.