Manjistha

Manjistha, Rubia cordifolia Linn. commonly known as Indian Maddar is a perennial, herbaceous prickly climber with long and  cylindrical  root with a thin red bark, well known  for  its  versatile action.  It is distributed in the Himalayas from Kashmir eastwards and Nilgiris and other hilly districts of India.

Ayurvedic Actions

Benefits

Skin Health

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 types of skin disorders like eczema, psoriasis etc.. This is due to its Pitta balancing and Raktashodhak (blood purifier) properties. 

Manjistha and its formulations even out skin pigmentation and prevent blemishes, giving a smooth and radiant skin by strengthening skin tissue and increasing blood circulation and reverse aging.

For Acne.

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. It reduce inflammation and heals the skin tissue, improving skin texture and reducing dark spots and acne scars.

For diabetes .

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.

Manjistha for jaundice

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 normalises bile function.

Manjistha for eyes

Manjistha is beneficial in eye diseases like conjunctivitis, burning of eyes, watery eyes and cataract due to its anti-inflammatory and wound healing properties.

For Wound healing

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 properties that prevents skin infection and promotes wound healing.

Manjistha for rheumatoid arthritis

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.

Dosage and side effects (only after consultation with an ayurvedic doctor)

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

Manjishta should be avoided during pregnancy.

References:

1. https://ijpsr.com/bft-article/rubia-cordifolia-a-review-on-pharmaconosy-and-phytochemistry/?view=fulltext
2. Sharma, PV: Dravyaguna Vijnana, Chaukhambha Bharati Academy, Varanasi, 1969; 2-3, 928.