Manjistha brings clarity to body and mind and helps to regain new strength. Thanks to its blood-cleansing properties, the dyer’s root has a particularly beneficial effect on Kapha and Pitta disorders and makes stressed and diseased skin radiantly beautiful again. In this guide, you will learn about the positive benefits you can derive from the root and how to use it best.
Interesting facts about the Manjistha plant
Manjistha, also known as Rubia cordifolia or Indian madder, is an evergreen climbing plant found mainly in China and Southeast Asia’s hilly regions. There it can grow up to 1.5 meters high and develops elongated, kidney-shaped leaves.
The name “Manjistha” is Sanskrit and means intense red. This is already a small hint to the root’s blood-purifying properties because, in Ayurveda, it is therefore considered a meaningful remedy. The dried dyer’s root is used as a powder and has many favorable properties.
Manjistha Churna: Effect of the dyer’s root
In India, the plant is known as a traditional remedy because, in Ayurveda, the Manjistha plant is said to have special healing powers and can help us regain balance by reducing excess Pitta and Kapha.
In this way, it helps to free the body from toxins.
It can give us clarity and purity both physically and mentally. We will now take a closer look at what it can do in detail.
Purification of the blood
Manjistha is considered one of the most potent blood purifying plants in Ayurveda. If toxins enter the blood, they can often cause violent physical reactions. However, the root has a mild detoxifying and antibacterial effect. As a natural blood purifier, it is said to improve the blood’s quality and facilitate circulation in the venous system. It can thus prevent blood clots from forming.
After birth, the plant helps heal the uterus and can have a calming effect on menstrual problems. It also cleanses the liver and supports its function, thus counteracting various skin diseases or jaundice.
Lymphatic system: detoxify the body with the dye root
The dyer’s root is mostly known for its ability to support the lymphatic system. This system must work well because it is responsible for fighting against toxins and pathogens. Even if you eat a healthy diet, you are regularly exposed to various environmental toxins. To get rid of these toxins, the lymphatic system has to work hard.
When it becomes sluggish, we notice this mainly through Kapha disorders. We become tired, lethargic, and exhausted or get skin problems, sore throats, and swollen hands and feet. Manjistha acts as an essential aid for the lymphatic system because it supports the system’s natural purifying and nourishing functions. Thus it helps to break down toxins and cleanse the body. In this way, you will feel freer and healthier again!
Healthy skin and a radiant complexion
When Pitta is elevated, the skin is slightly reddened and irritated by the heat.
With its bitter properties, however, Manjistha has a calming effect and soothes the pitta dosha again.
This makes the root particularly beneficial for skin diseases such as acne or psoriasis. Discoloration and pimples are reduced, and the skin shines in all its natural power again!
Stress is reduced
Manjistha also has a therapeutic effect in cases of stress, anxiety, or depression.
All these problems can be psychologically stressful and cause physical ailments such as headaches, tension, or heart problems.
By taking root, however, body and mind are freed, and muscle tensions are gently released.
Does Manjistha have side effects?
In principle, taking the dyer’s root is generally considered safe. However, it would help if you did not overdo it with the amount and always stick to the prescribed dose. Pregnant and nursing women, as well as children, should avoid taking it altogether. If you have severe liver or kidney disease, you must consult your doctor before taking this medicine.
Warning: Do not be frightened, because taking Manjistha can color the urine red!
Use of Manjistha: Dosage and tips
This versatile root can be used both internally and externally. As a powder, it can quickly be taken between meals. Add 1-2 teaspoons of the powder to a cup of hot water. Drink this mixture twice a day at least 30 minutes after a meal – the first dose is best taken immediately after breakfast! Alternatively, you can also take Manjistha capsules. But the health-promoting root can do much more!
Face mask and paste for the skin
For skin diseases such as itching or acne, Manjistha can bring pleasant healing when applied externally. To do this, stir the churna with a little honey to form a paste and spread it on the skin. Let it work for about 10-15 minutes, and then rinse it off with some lukewarm water. This soothes the skin and makes it glow again!
If you want to give your skin an incredibly luminous complexion, you can also try this mask. You will need the following:
100 g orange peel, dried and crushed
- 50 g sandalwood
- 50 g turmeric
- Manjistha- 50g
The mask restores a fresh glow to your face and also helps to remove traces of elevated Pitta. As a precaution, however, you should first try both face masks on a small strip of skin to see how your skin reacts.
Pastes for wound healing
Besides its cleansing effect, Manjistha is also used in Ayurveda to support wound healing.
Here are our two favorites for use:
For bone fractures: To support the tissue formation of a broken bone, you can mix and apply a paste of manjistha powder, whey, and licorice. The mixture naturally promotes healing.
For burns, there is a special preparation of manjistha, ghee, red sandalwood, and Anseveria zeylancia. When applied carefully to the appropriate area, it reduces Pitta and can help the wound heal.
Manjistha for the hair
Do you suffer from hair loss, or are you struggling with dandruff? In this case, especially people with sensitive and battered scalp can benefit from the dye root. Mix a paste of water and the churna of the root and spread it in the hair. After about 10-20 minutes, you can rinse the mixture with warm water; shampoo is no longer necessary.
Our secret tip: As preparation for coloring your hair, this paste is also suitable for gently caring for the scalp and hair. Depending on the hair structure, you have to let it work for about 60 minutes before rinsing it out. Afterward, a vegetable hair color is used, and the hair remains healthy and robust despite the coloring.
Manjistha helps you achieve a holistic cleansing and lets you go through your daily life clearly and lively again. It frees you from harmful toxins and makes your skin shine healthy again. Just try one of our pastes and convince yourself of the healing effects!
Satvik Living 