Manjishtha (Indian Madder)

Manjishtha (Indian Madder)

Functions

The classical Indian dye plant — Rubia cordifolia — and one of the foundational Varnya herbs. The root contains anthraquinones (alizarin, purpurin) which:

1. Inhibit tyrosinase → brightening
2. Chelate iron-rich pigments → anti-melasma
3. Stain skin yellow-orange transiently — fades in 24-48 hours

Cosmetic uses

• Vala-Atibala-Yashti-Rajani anti-Vyanga lepa (Sushruta Cikitsa 20.20) — Manjishtha included as Rajani by some interpretations (more commonly Rajani = turmeric)
• Kumkumadi Tailam family — for blood-purifying / anti-pigment action
• Tridoshic ubtans — 5 % Manjishtha powder for brightening
• Internal use — 1-3 g Manjishtha churna at bedtime as a blood-purifying Rasayana (vaidya-supervised)

Safety note

The yellow-orange staining is temporary and harmless but visually disconcerting. Modern cosmetic formulators often reduce Manjishtha to 1-2 % of formula to keep staining minimal, or use a colorant additive (titanium dioxide / iron oxide) to counteract.

Collection & processing

Collection: The creeper grows wild in Himalayan and sub-Himalayan zones. Roots harvested from 2-year-old plants in autumn.

Processing: Root sun-dried, then powdered to #80 mesh. Aqueous decoction extracts the active anthraquinones (alizarin, purpurin).

Used in 16 recipes