Jatamansi (Nardostachys or Valeriania jatamansi) is considered as locks of Lord Shiva. It is a very sacred ingredient in many herbal remedies, and is especially in sacred incenses blends all over Asia, including one of our favorites we have reconstructed from a recipe of the alchemist Nagarjuna. It is considered sweet, bitter and astringent, cooling in energy and pungent in post-digestion. It is said to aid in balancing all three doshas, and is similarly sedative like valerian but also considered superior for promoting awareness and strengthening the mind. Said to combine well with gotu kola or with a little cinnamon or camphor. 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. he name comes from its appearance- ‘jata’ means dreadlocks and ‘mansi’ means human. This plant, which is also called the spikenard, nard, nardin, and muskroot, has pink bell shaped flowers. It is an endangered medical herb that has been used for centuries in Ayurveda, the ancient Indian system of medicine. Ayurveda describes Jatamansi as a combination of three tastes- bitter, astringent and sweet. Its chemical composition consists of a volatile oil and two alkaloids, besides an acid which is known as jatamansic acid.

Jatamansi is the most effective herb for putting an end to Vata imbalance. Vata is one of the three life forces or doshas- the other two are Pitta and Kapha. Ayurveda teaches us that it is these doshas that determine the constitution and health of an individual. They are balanced in a unique proportion in each of us, and any imbalance causes ill health. Vata dosha is responsible for all mental functioning and emotions. Ayurvedic physicians prescribe Jatamansi as an aphrodisiac. In the menopausal syndrome it is used in combination with other nervine tonics and also as an emmenagogue, for it promotes menstruation and has a cleansing effect on the uterus. At the same time, decoctions made from this herb are useful in hepatitis and in treating enlargement of the liver, as well as for problems with the digestive tract, including lack of appetite, poor digestion, flatulence and constipation.

Jatamansi is an antiseptic. The decoction of the root is applied on the affected areas in skin problems, burns, wounds, rashes, eczema, and allergies, and in skin infections caused by streptococcus bacteria known as erysipelas. In cases of severe headaches due to hypertension or migraine, you can take the herb twice a day for 2 weeks. The oil of the herb can be used to massage the head. The oil is obtained from the root of the herb, and is called Nard oil. It is used in the making of perfumes, incense, cosmetics and deodorants. So whether it is to combat stress or to relieve insomnia, to treat coughs or fever, or to get relief from respiratory, urinary, digestive, or skin problems, let the root that resembles the matted locks of a sage restore the balance of your life forces and restore you to good health.
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

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.*

*The above statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.