Manjishtha: what Ayurveda says and how it may support your cycle
A traditional herb for the blood and skin.
Manjishtha (Rubia cordifolia) is an Ayurvedic herb. The root is used. Ayurveda traditionally uses it as described below, and AAVIE may include it in your supplement when your assessment suggests it fits.
| Names | Manjishtha, Manjistha. Indian madder in English. |
|---|---|
| Botanical name | Rubia cordifolia |
| Part used | Root |
| Rasa (taste) | Madhura (sweet), Tikta (bitter), Kashaya (astringent) |
| Guna (qualities) | Guru (heavy), Ruksha (dry) |
Ayurvedic profile as described in classical texts.
What Ayurveda says about Manjishtha
Ayurveda calls Manjishtha a rakta-shodhaka, a herb that supports the blood, and a varnya herb, one that supports complexion. It is traditionally used in skin and blood-related formulations.
Manjishtha and your period
Ayurveda links menstrual blood with Rakta, so herbs that support Rakta feature in traditional cycle formulations. It is also traditionally used where blood-related imbalance shows up in the skin, which is why it appears in skin-focused formulas.
Who it tends to suit
Often selected when skin flare-ups and Pitta-type heat go along with cycle changes.
Why the right dose matters
Why not less
Too little is unlikely to give the effect described traditionally.
Why not more
Too much is drying, which can aggravate Vata and cause dryness or constipation. It may also colour urine.
The right amount is not the same for everyone. It depends on your Prakriti and your current imbalance (Vikriti), which is why AAVIE sets it for you and a Vaidya reviews it. Read why the right dose matters.
Check with your doctor first if
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding
- You have kidney problems or a history of kidney stones
- You take blood thinners, unless your doctor agrees
Common questions
Is Manjishtha safe for everyone?
No herb is right for everyone. Check with your doctor first if any of the cautions on this page apply to you. AAVIE asks about your medicines and conditions before selecting herbs.
Will Manjishtha be in my AAVIE supplement?
Only if your assessment suggests it fits. AAVIE selects herbs for each person and each cycle, and a Vaidya reviews the selection.
Related pages
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Supplements are not a substitute for medical advice.