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8.3 Famous Ayurvedic
Herbs8.3.11 MANJISTHA, Indian Madder (Rubia cordifolia,
Linn.)
Taste: Bitter sweet, astringent
Attribute: Heavy
Potency: Cold
Long-Term:Pungent
General Action: Blood purifier, antitumor, antibacterial, aids circulation, is used to treat the female reproductive
System, voice, skin, urinary system
Specific Action: Blood purifier
Therapeutic Action: Lowers pitta and kapha; increases vata
Manjishta is one of the best herbs for lowering pitta-type problems and balancing pitta people. It is useful for cooling the blood, stimulating the circulation, and promoting a healthy menses for women. Manjishta is good for all kinds of inflammations and can be used externally as a paste to heal the skin. As a blood purifier it has a strong action on the overall complexion, cleaning it of toxins and promoting a natural luster. Manjishta cools, detoxifies, and strengthens the liver, spleen and kidneys. Recent studies show that it has antitumor properties and yet another study showed antibacterial activity. Manjishta is an excellent herb for women, and is used for pitta-type disorders of the blood
Dose: 1 o 2 grams twice per day