Jatamansi is the Sanskrit name of the herb Nardostachys. The rhizome part is used and its oil is extracted, which is of various benefits to man. The herb has various benefits in ayurvedic medicines as it helps to combat the stressful life.
The botanical name of the herb is Nardostachys grandiflora. It belongs to the family Valerianaceae. The other names for Jatamansi herbs are Jatamashi, Balchar, Indian Spikenard and Muskroot. The herb enhances the body’s ability to sleep well. It is considered as a divine plant in ayurveda as in olden days, it was used as an air-purifier. In ayurvedic texts of Charaka, it has been recommended for enhancing memory, insomnia and mental stability.
Jatamansi Benefits
It can be used externally as well as internally. The herb Jatamansi has following health benefits –
- Brain tonic — The herb is used as a brain tonic, which gives peace and a sense of calmness to mind.
- Deodorant — Jatamansi powder is fragrant, hence in cases of excess sweating, it is used as a deodorant.
- Inflammation — A paste is prepared by mixing the herb in cold water, which reduces inflammation, pain, burning sensation and also improves skin texture.
- Mental disorders — The powder of Jatamansi is also an effective remedy for various mental disorders and mental retardation.
- It also regularizes digestion, respiration and eliminates general body weakness.
- Improves hair — Jatamansi herb oil is used for silky, smooth and healthy hair growth.
- Urinary problems — It is also used to treat various urinary problems.
- Circulatory system — The herb maintains the blood circulatory system.
Other Benefits of Jatamansi –
- The herb also helps in relieving the phlegm in asthma and cough, increases appetite, relieves hepatitis and also treats liver enlargement.
- It is used in treatment of impotency and sexual debility.
- The herb relieves symptoms of seizures and vertigo in fever.
- It also stops gas production and fermentation in stomach.
Jatamansi Ayurveda actions –
It has following actions according to ayurveda –
- Medhya — It is a nervine rejuvenator (which relieves stress and rhuvenates tension in nerves)
- Bhootaghni — It benefits psychic condition
- Balya — It increases body’s strength
- Kanti prada — It imparts a glowing look and improves complexion
Cautions before taking Jatamansi –
- It should not be taken in large doses as it can cause diarrhea and vomiting with abdominal pains, colic, nausea and urinary problems.
- Lactating mothers and pregnant women should take the herb on prescription.
