SCIENTIFIC NAME: Nardostachys jatamansi

 

HINDI NAME: Jatamansi

 

ENGLISH NAME: Spikenard

 

FAMILY: Caprifoliaceae

 

SHORT DESCRIPTION

The taste of jatamansi is light, oily, unctuous, bitter, astringent, and sweet. It has a cold potency quality that has unique effects on neuropsychiatric conditions. It has properties that help to balance all three doshas, particularly pitta and kapha. This herb has been used in Ayurveda since ancient times, and it is mentioned in the Charaka and Sushruta samhitas.

USES & HEALTH BENEFITS

• Promotes wound healing
• Helps manage skin infections.
• Good for hair growth
• Manages cognitive functions
• Healing effect in neurological disorders
• Calms anxiety, depression, insomnia and related conditions
• Hepato-protective
• Cardio-protective 
• Blood purifier

PRECAUTIONS & SIDE EFFECTS

• During pregnancy & breastfeeding, it is best to avoid Jatamansi or use it only under medical supervision.
• Hypersensitive people should avoid this herb because it can cause skin irritation, breathing problems, nausea, and vomiting.

HOW TO USE

• Take a quarter to half teaspoon of jatamansi powder with honey once or twice a day after meals to help with anxiety, stress, and neurological healing.
• Mix 2-5 drops of Jatamansi essential oil with almond oil & massage the crown of the head and the soles of the feet before going to bed to help with insomnia.
• Mix 2-5 drops of Jatamansi oil, or as needed with 1-2 teaspoons of coconut oil & apply to the affected area once or twice a day to help the wound heal quickly.
• Use jatamansi powder and decoction form as prescribed by an Ayurveda expert.