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Nardostachys jatamansi Dc.
{{#seo:
|title=Charak Samhita
|titlemode=append
|keywords= *Jatamansi, Nardostachys jatamansi Dc., Spikenard, Therapeutic use, herbs, researches on dravya, Charak Samhita, Dravyaguna, carakasamhitaonline, carakasamhita, caraka samhita, Ayurveda, Charak Samhita English translation, ancient Ayurveda text, Indian system of medicine, Ayurveda, Charak, Charaka Samhita, agnivesha, atreya, gopal basisht, yogesh deole, charak samhita wikipedia edition, charak samhita new edition, charaka samhita new edition, carak samhita new edition, caraka samhita new edition, research on charak samhita, text book charak samhita, fundamental principles of ayurveda, basic concepts of ayurveda,
|description= Jatamansi (Nardostachys jatamansi Dc.) is widely used in Ayurveda as a premier brain tonic (Medhya), sedative, and anti-stress agent. It helps pacify all three doshas and is traditionally indicated for insomnia, mental disorders, and skin diseases.
|image=http://www.carakasamhitaonline.com/resources/assets/ogimgs.jpg
|image_alt=charak samhita
|type=article
}}
 
{{Infobox
{{Infobox
|title = Jatamansi
|title = Jatamansi
Line 5: Line 14:
|data1 = Herb database/Jatamansi
|data1 = Herb database/Jatamansi
|label2 = Botanical name(s)
|label2 = Botanical name(s)
|data2 = Nardostachys jatamansi Dc.
|data2 = [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nardostachys_jatamansi Nardostachys jatamansi Dc.]
|label3 = Family
|label3 = Family
|data3 = Caprifoliaceae
|data3 = Caprifoliaceae
Line 13: Line 22:
|data5 = Available
|data5 = Available
|label6 = Contributors
|label6 = Contributors
|data6 = --
|data6 = [[Team Dravyaguna]]
|label7 = Year of publication  
|label7 = Year of publication  
|data7 =  2024
|data7 =  2026
|label8 = Publisher  
|label8 = Publisher  
|data8 =  [[Charak Samhita Research, Training and Skill Development Centre]]
|data8 =  [[Charak Samhita Research, Training and Skill Development Centre]]
|label9 = DOI  
|label9 = DOI  
|data9  = Awaited
|data9  = {{DoiWithLink}}
}}
}}
'''[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nardostachys_jatamansi Nardostachys jatamansi Dc.]''', popularly known as '''Jatamansi''' (Spikenard), is an endangered perennial dwarf, spikenard herb belonging to the family Caprifoliaceae (Valerianaceae). It is highly revered in [[Ayurveda]] as a prominent *Medhya* (intellect-promoting) and nerve-calming herb, traditionally utilized for managing mental disorders, sleep disturbances, skin ailments, and neurological imbalance.


==English name ==  
==English name ==  
Spikenard
Spikenard


==Therapeutic use==
==Therapeutic use==
Daha (burning sensation), kushtha (obstinate skin diseases), visarpa (acute spreading erysepalas), manasa roga (mental disorders), anidra (insomnia)
Daha (burning sensation), Kushtha (obstinate skin diseases), Visarpa (acute spreading erysipelas), Manasa roga (mental disorders), Anidra (insomnia)<ref name="ref1">Anonymous. The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India. Department of Ayush, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Govt. of India, New Delhi, Part I. 1986; Volume I: 33.</ref>


==Other Varieties / Other Botanical names==
==Other Varieties / Other Botanical names==
 
* Fedia grandiflora Wall., nom. nud.
* Fedia grandiflora Wall., nom. nud.
* Fedia jatamansi Wall. ex DC.  
* Fedia jatamansi Wall. ex DC.  
* Nardostachys chinensis Batalin  
* Nardostachys chinensis Batalin  
* Nardostachys gracilis Kitam.  
* Nardostachys gracilis Kitam.  
* Nardostachys grandiflora DC.  
* Nardostachys grandiflora DC.  
* Nardostachys jatamansi C.B.Clarke  
* Nardostachys jatamansi C.B.Clarke
* Patrinia jatamansi D.Don  
* Patrinia jatamansi D.Don  
* Valeriana jatamansi D.Don  
* Valeriana jatamansi D.Don,
* Valeriana jatamansi (D.Don) Wall.
* Valeriana jatamansi (D.Don) Wall.


==Identification Characters==
==Identification Characters==
* '''Jatila''' – Jatamansi has matted hairs.
* '''Jatila''' – Jatamansi has matted hairs.
* '''Bhutajata''' – Jatamansi has fibers in the rhizomes that appear like matted hairs.
* '''Bhutajata''' – Jatamansi has fibers in the rhizomes that appear like matted hairs.
* '''Krishnajata''' – Rhizome of Jatamansi is black in colour.
* '''Krishnajata''' – Rhizome of Jatamansi is black in colour.
* '''Mishi''' -  Rhizome of Jatamansi is black in colour.
* '''Mishi''' – Rhizome of Jatamansi is black in colour.
* '''Sulomasha''' – Fibers on rhizome are neatly arranged like a matted hair.
* '''Sulomasha''' – Fibers on rhizome are neatly arranged like a matted hair.
* '''Nalada''' – Rhizome of Jatamansi has agreeable odour.
* '''Nalada''' – Rhizome of Jatamansi has agreeable odour.


==Types==
==Types==
===Raja Nighantu===
Mentioned 3 types<ref name="ref2">Dr. Indradev Tripathi, Raj Nighantu of Pandit Narahari, Chandanadi Varga, Verse no. 95, 97, 99, Chaukhambha Krishnadas Academy, Varanasi.</ref>
# Jatamansi
# Gandhamansi
# Akasamansi


===Raja Nighantu1- 3===
[[File:Nardostachys_jatamansi.jpg|thumb|Jatamansi (Nardostachys jatamansi)]]
 
# Jatamansi
# Gandhamansi
# Akasamansi


== Botanical Profile & Traditional Context ==
In traditional Ayurvedic texts, Jatamansi is classified under *Tridoshahara* (pacifying all three doshas) and acts as a premier brain tonic (*medhya*). Possessing bitter (*tikta*), astringent (*kashaya*), and sweet (*madhura*) tastes, cold potency (*sheeta veerya*), and a pungent post-digestion effect (*katu vipaka*), it is widely prescribed for consciousness promotion (*sandnyasthapana*) and mental tranquility.


== Synonyms in Charak Samhita==
== Synonyms in Charak Samhita==
Mansi, Mamsi, Nalad, Bhutajata, Jatila, Tapasvini.
Mansi, Mamsi, Nalad, Bhutajata, Jatila, Tapasvini


==Additional Synonyms in Bhavaprakasha Nighantu==
==Additional Synonyms in Bhavaprakasha Nighantu==
Jatamansi
Jatamansi<ref name="ref3">Shri Bhavamishra, Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Karpuradi Varga, verse no. 75, Edited by Padmashree Pro. Krushnachandra Chunekar, Reprint Edition, Chaukhambha Bharati Academy, 2015.</ref>
 


== Ayurvedic pharmacological properties ==  
== Ayurvedic pharmacological properties ==  
Line 73: Line 83:
! Sr.no. !! Pharmacological criteria !! Properties
! Sr.no. !! Pharmacological criteria !! Properties
|-
|-
| 1 || Taste ([[rasa]])  || Bitter (tikta), Astringent (kashaya), Sweet (madhura)
| 1 || Taste ([[rasa]])  || Bitter (tikta), Astringent (kashaya), Sweet (madhura)<ref name="ref3"/>
|-
|-
| 2 || Potency ([[veerya]]) ||Cold (sheeta)
| 2 || Potency ([[veerya]]) || Cold (sheeta)<ref name="ref3"/>
|-
|-
| 3 || Post digestion effect ([[vipaka]]) || Pungent (katu)
| 3 || Post digestion effect ([[vipaka]]) || Pungent (katu)<ref name="ref3"/>
|-
|-
| 4 || Qualities ([[guna]])|| Light (laghu), Unctuous (snigdha)
| 4 || Qualities ([[guna]])|| Light (laghu), Unctuous (snigdha)<ref name="ref3"/>
|-
|-
| 5 || Actions ([[karma]]) || Pacify all three dosha (tridoshahara), Brain tonic (medhya)
| 5 || Actions ([[karma]]) || Pacify all three doshas (tridoshahara), Brain tonic (medhya)<ref name="ref3"/>
|-
|-
|}
|}
== Reference in Charak Samhita and its actions ==  
== Reference in Charak Samhita and its actions ==  


Line 91: Line 102:
! Sr.no. !! Reference in Charak Samhita !! Activity  
! Sr.no. !! Reference in Charak Samhita !! Activity  
|-
|-
| 1 ||Cha.Sa.[[Sutra Sthana]] 4/9(48)  
| 1 || Cha.Sa.[[Sutra Sthana]] 4/9(48) || Sandnyasthapana mahakashaya (regaining consciousness group of herbs)
| Sandnyasthapana (regaining consciousness) mahakashaya
|-
|-
| 2 ||Cha.Sa.[[Sutra Sthana]] 5/21  
| 2 || Cha.Sa.[[Sutra Sthana]] 5/21 || Dhuma varti dravya (used in medicated wick for smoking)
| Dhuma varti dravya(used in medicated wick for smoking)
|-
|-
| 3 ||Cha.Sa.[[Kalpa Sthana]] 1/23 ||Vamanartha(for therapeutic emesis)
| 3 || Cha.Sa.[[Kalpa Sthana]] 1/23 || Vamanartha (for therapeutic emesis)
|-
|-
|4
| 4 || Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 3/267 || As an ingredient of Agurvadi taila
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 3/267
|As an ingredient of Agurvadi taila.
|-
|-
|5
| 5 || Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 7/87 || Bahyaprayogartha lepa in Kushtha (obstinate skin diseases)
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 7/87
|Bahyaprayogarth lepa in Kushtha (obstinate skin diseases)
|-
|-
|6
| 6 || Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 10/34 || Ingredient in Palankashadi taila
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 10/34
|Ingredient in Palankashadi taila
|-
|-
|7
| 7 || Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 12/65 || For lepa, abhyangadi bahyaprayogartha (external applications in massage)
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 12/65
|For Lepa, Abhyangadi  Bahyaprayogartha (external applications in massagae)
|-
|-
|8
| 8 || Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 17/78 || Used for shodhanottara (after purification) dhumpana (medicated smoking)
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 17/78
|Used for shodhanottara(after purification) dhumpana (medicated smoking).
|-
|-
|9
| 9 || Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 18/69 || As an ingredient of Manahsiladi dhuma
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 18/69
|As an ingredient of manahsiladi dhuma.
|-
|-
|10
| 10 || Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 20/33 || Trishna (morbid thirst) & Chhardi (vomiting) shamaka yoga
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 20/33
|Trusha(morbid thirst) & Chhardi(vomiting)-shamaka yoga.
|-
|-
|11
| 11 || Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 23/54 || As an ingredient of Mrita sanjivani agada
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 23/54
|As an ingredient of Mrita sanjivani agada.
|-
|-
|12
| 12 || Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 23/102 || As an ingredient of Ksharagada
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 23/102  
|As an ingredient of ksharagada.
|-
|-
|13
| 13 || Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 23/190 || As an ingredient of Mamsyadi yoga
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 23/190
|As an ingredient of Mamsyadi yoga.
|-
|-
|14
| 14 || Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 26/65 || As an ingredient of Trutyadi churna
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 26/65
|As an ingredient of Trutyadi churna.
|-
|-
|15
| 15 || Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 26/182 || Used in Kaphaja sira shoola for dhoomavarti
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 26/182
|Used in Kaphaja sira shoola for dhoomavarti.
|-
|-
|16
| 16 || Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 26/209 || As an ingredient of Khadiradi gutika
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 26/209
|As an ingredient of Khadiradi gutika.
|-
|-
|17
| 17 || Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 26/234 || Used in Pittaja netraroga
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 26/234
|Used in Pittaja netraroga.
|-
|-
|18
| 18 || Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 28/153 || As an ingredient of Bala taila
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 28/153
|As an ingredient of Bala taila.
|-
|-
|19
| 19 || Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 28/158 || As an ingredient of Amrutadi taila
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 28/158
|As an ingredient of Amrutadi taila.
|-
|-
|}
|}


==Dose==
==Dose==
*2-3 g of the drug in powder form.
* Powder form: 2–3 g<ref name="ref1"/>
*5-10 g of the drug for decoction.
* Decoction form: 5–10 g<ref name="ref1"/>


==Important formulations==
==Important formulations==
*Jatamamsi arka
As per A.P.I.<ref name="ref1"/>
* Jatamamsi arka
 
== Current availability==
Available
* '''In India –''' High alpine and sub-alpine Himalayan ranges of India (Arunachal Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, Sikkim, Uttarakhand).
* '''Out of India –''' Bhutan, China, Myanmar, Nepal.


== Phytochemical Composition ==
The therapeutic efficacy of ''Nardostachys jatamansi'' rhizomes and roots is attributed to a dense cluster of active phytochemicals:
* '''Sesquiterpenes & Volatile Oils:''' Jatamansone (valeranone), actinidine, sesquiterpene coumarins, and jatamansic acid.
* '''Lignans & Flavonoids:''' Sesamin, episesamin, and diverse antioxidant polyphenolic fractions.
* '''Active Glycosides:''' Valepotriates and related iridoid constituents providing neuroprotective activity.


== Current availability==  
== Pharmacological Activities & Therapeutic Efficacy ==
=== Nootropic, Anxiolytic, and Sedative Effects ===
Jatamansi is globally recognized as a premier brain tonic (*medhya*) that effectively manages anxiety, depression, and insomnia (*anidra*).
* '''Mechanism:''' Active sesquiterpenes like valeranone modulate central gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) receptor pathways, prolonging pentobarbital-induced sleep time and decreasing central nervous system hyper-excitability.
* '''Scientific Evidence:''' Experimental and clinical studies verify that root extracts significantly reduce anxiety indices, improve sleep quality, and enhance memory retrieval in cognitive deficit models.<ref name="Subhakaran2005">{{cite journal |last1=Subhakaran |first1=K. |last2=Bapna |first2=J. S. |year=2005 |title=Anxiolytic and antidepressant activities of Nardostachys jatamansi in rodents |journal=Journal of Ethnopharmacology |volume=98 |issue=3 |pages=317–322}}</ref>


Available
=== Neuroprotective and Antioxidant Actions ===
The herb exhibits remarkable protective capabilities against cerebral ischemia and neurodegenerative stress.
* '''Mechanism:''' Scavenges reactive oxygen species (ROS), enhances superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase activities in brain tissue, and inhibits lipid peroxidation.
* '''Scientific Evidence:''' Preclinical trials demonstrate that Jatamansi extracts attenuate oxidative stress damage during cerebral ischemia-reperfusion and support neuronal survival.<ref name="Ahmad2006">{{cite journal |last1=Ahmad |first1=M. |last2=Ansari |first2=R. A. |last3=Rahman |first3=S. |year=2006 |title=Neuroprotective effect of Nardostachys jatamansi on antioxidant defense system in global cerebral ischemia |journal=Pharmacology Biochemistry and Behavior |volume=83 |issue=1 |pages=155–163}}</ref>


*In India – Himalayan ranges of India (Arunachal Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, Sikkkim, Uttarakhand)
=== Anticonvulsant and Anti-Epileptic Properties ===
*Out of india – Bhutan, China, Myanmar, Nepal
Historically associated with *Sandnyasthapana* (restoring consciousness), Jatamansi is widely evaluated for managing seizure disorders.
* '''Mechanism:''' Elevates brain GABA levels and raises the seizure threshold against chemically or electrically induced convulsions.
* '''Scientific Evidence:''' Research reports dose-dependent protection against maximal electroshock and pentylenetetrazole-induced seizure models in rodents.<ref name="Kulkarni1997">{{cite journal |last1=Kulkarni |first1=S. K. |last2=Joshi |first2=V. P. |year=1997 |title=Anticonvulsant activity of Nardostachys jatamansi in rats |journal=Methods and Findings in Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology |volume=19 |issue=9 |pages=639–642}}</ref>


== Current researches ==
== Safety, Toxicity, and Dosage ==
* '''Acute Toxicity:''' Jatamansi is generally safe within recommended therapeutic dosages; however, excessive consumption should be avoided due to its potent sedative nature.
* '''Precautions:''' Use with caution during pregnancy, lactation, or alongside central nervous system depressants unless monitored by a qualified medical professional.
* '''Standard Therapeutic Dosage:'''
** ''Rhizome Powder (Churna):'' 2–3 g daily<ref name="ref1"/>.
** ''Decoction (Kwatha):'' 5–10 g of drug for preparation<ref name="ref1"/>.


[[Category: Database of herbs and minerals | Herbs]]
== Summary of Therapeutic Profile ==
{| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align: left;"
|+ Therapeutic Applications of ''Nardostachys jatamansi''
! Indication
! Active Biomolecules
! Primary Pharmacological Action
|-
| '''Insomnia & Anxiety / Anidra'''
| Valeranone, Jatamansone
| Sedative, Anxiolytic, GABA modulator
|-
| '''Cognitive Decline / Medhya'''
| Sesquiterpenes, Lignans
| Nootropic, Neuroprotective
|-
| '''Skin Disorders / Kushtha'''
| Flavonoids, Coumarins
| Anti-inflammatory, Antioxidant
|}
 
== References ==
{{Reflist|refs=
<ref name="ref1">Anonymous. The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India. Department of Ayush, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Govt. of India, New Delhi, Part I. 1986; Volume I: 33.</ref>
<ref name="ref2">Dr. Indradev Tripathi, Raj Nighantu of Pandit Narahari, Chandanadi Varga, Verse no. 95, 97, 99, Chaukhambha Krishnadas Academy, Varanasi.</ref>
<ref name="ref3">Shri Bhavamishra, Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Karpuradi Varga, verse no. 75, Edited by Padmashree Pro. Krushnachandra Chunekar, Reprint Edition, Chaukhambha Bharati Academy, 2015.</ref>
<ref name="Subhakaran2005">{{cite journal |last1=Subhakaran |first1=K. |last2=Bapna |first2=J. S. |year=2005 |title=Anxiolytic and antidepressant activities of Nardostachys jatamansi in rodents |journal=Journal of Ethnopharmacology |volume=98 |issue=3 |pages=317–322}}</ref>
<ref name="Ahmad2006">{{cite journal |last1=Ahmad |first1=M. |last2=Ansari |first2=R. A. |last3=Rahman |first3=S. |year=2006 |title=Neuroprotective effect of Nardostachys jatamansi on antioxidant defense system in global cerebral ischemia |journal=Pharmacology Biochemistry and Behavior |volume=83 |issue=1 |pages=155–163}}</ref>
<ref name="Kulkarni1997">{{cite journal |last1=Kulkarni |first1=S. K. |last2=Joshi |first2=V. P. |year=1997 |title=Anticonvulsant activity of Nardostachys jatamansi in rats |journal=Methods and Findings in Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology |volume=19 |issue=9 |pages=639–642}}</ref>
}}


This article is under development ..
[[Index.php?title=Category:Database of herbs and minerals| Herbs]]

Latest revision as of 06:33, 17 September 2026


Jatamansi
Section/Chapter Herb database/Jatamansi
Botanical name(s) Nardostachys jatamansi Dc.
Family Caprifoliaceae
Sub Family Valerianaceae
Availability Available
Contributors Team Dravyaguna
Year of publication 2026
Publisher Charak Samhita Research, Training and Skill Development Centre
DOI --

Nardostachys jatamansi Dc., popularly known as Jatamansi (Spikenard), is an endangered perennial dwarf, spikenard herb belonging to the family Caprifoliaceae (Valerianaceae). It is highly revered in Ayurveda as a prominent *Medhya* (intellect-promoting) and nerve-calming herb, traditionally utilized for managing mental disorders, sleep disturbances, skin ailments, and neurological imbalance.

English name

Spikenard

Therapeutic use

Daha (burning sensation), Kushtha (obstinate skin diseases), Visarpa (acute spreading erysipelas), Manasa roga (mental disorders), Anidra (insomnia)[1]

Other Varieties / Other Botanical names

  • Fedia grandiflora Wall., nom. nud.
  • Fedia jatamansi Wall. ex DC.
  • Nardostachys chinensis Batalin
  • Nardostachys gracilis Kitam.
  • Nardostachys grandiflora DC.
  • Nardostachys jatamansi C.B.Clarke
  • Patrinia jatamansi D.Don
  • Valeriana jatamansi D.Don
  • Valeriana jatamansi (D.Don) Wall.

Identification Characters

  • Jatila – Jatamansi has matted hairs.
  • Bhutajata – Jatamansi has fibers in the rhizomes that appear like matted hairs.
  • Krishnajata – Rhizome of Jatamansi is black in colour.
  • Mishi – Rhizome of Jatamansi is black in colour.
  • Sulomasha – Fibers on rhizome are neatly arranged like a matted hair.
  • Nalada – Rhizome of Jatamansi has agreeable odour.

Types

Raja Nighantu

Mentioned 3 types[2]

  1. Jatamansi
  2. Gandhamansi
  3. Akasamansi
File:Nardostachys jatamansi.jpg
Jatamansi (Nardostachys jatamansi)

Botanical Profile & Traditional Context

In traditional Ayurvedic texts, Jatamansi is classified under *Tridoshahara* (pacifying all three doshas) and acts as a premier brain tonic (*medhya*). Possessing bitter (*tikta*), astringent (*kashaya*), and sweet (*madhura*) tastes, cold potency (*sheeta veerya*), and a pungent post-digestion effect (*katu vipaka*), it is widely prescribed for consciousness promotion (*sandnyasthapana*) and mental tranquility.

Synonyms in Charak Samhita

Mansi, Mamsi, Nalad, Bhutajata, Jatila, Tapasvini

Additional Synonyms in Bhavaprakasha Nighantu

Jatamansi[3]

Ayurvedic pharmacological properties

Properties
Sr.no. Pharmacological criteria Properties
1 Taste (rasa) Bitter (tikta), Astringent (kashaya), Sweet (madhura)[3]
2 Potency (veerya) Cold (sheeta)[3]
3 Post digestion effect (vipaka) Pungent (katu)[3]
4 Qualities (guna) Light (laghu), Unctuous (snigdha)[3]
5 Actions (karma) Pacify all three doshas (tridoshahara), Brain tonic (medhya)[3]

Reference in Charak Samhita and its actions

Herbs and their activities
Sr.no. Reference in Charak Samhita Activity
1 Cha.Sa.Sutra Sthana 4/9(48) Sandnyasthapana mahakashaya (regaining consciousness group of herbs)
2 Cha.Sa.Sutra Sthana 5/21 Dhuma varti dravya (used in medicated wick for smoking)
3 Cha.Sa.Kalpa Sthana 1/23 Vamanartha (for therapeutic emesis)
4 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 3/267 As an ingredient of Agurvadi taila
5 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 7/87 Bahyaprayogartha lepa in Kushtha (obstinate skin diseases)
6 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 10/34 Ingredient in Palankashadi taila
7 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 12/65 For lepa, abhyangadi bahyaprayogartha (external applications in massage)
8 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 17/78 Used for shodhanottara (after purification) dhumpana (medicated smoking)
9 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 18/69 As an ingredient of Manahsiladi dhuma
10 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 20/33 Trishna (morbid thirst) & Chhardi (vomiting) shamaka yoga
11 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 23/54 As an ingredient of Mrita sanjivani agada
12 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 23/102 As an ingredient of Ksharagada
13 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 23/190 As an ingredient of Mamsyadi yoga
14 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 26/65 As an ingredient of Trutyadi churna
15 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 26/182 Used in Kaphaja sira shoola for dhoomavarti
16 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 26/209 As an ingredient of Khadiradi gutika
17 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 26/234 Used in Pittaja netraroga
18 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 28/153 As an ingredient of Bala taila
19 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 28/158 As an ingredient of Amrutadi taila

Dose

  • Powder form: 2–3 g[1]
  • Decoction form: 5–10 g[1]

Important formulations

As per A.P.I.[1]

  • Jatamamsi arka

Current availability

Available

  • In India – High alpine and sub-alpine Himalayan ranges of India (Arunachal Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, Sikkim, Uttarakhand).
  • Out of India – Bhutan, China, Myanmar, Nepal.

Phytochemical Composition

The therapeutic efficacy of Nardostachys jatamansi rhizomes and roots is attributed to a dense cluster of active phytochemicals:

  • Sesquiterpenes & Volatile Oils: Jatamansone (valeranone), actinidine, sesquiterpene coumarins, and jatamansic acid.
  • Lignans & Flavonoids: Sesamin, episesamin, and diverse antioxidant polyphenolic fractions.
  • Active Glycosides: Valepotriates and related iridoid constituents providing neuroprotective activity.

Pharmacological Activities & Therapeutic Efficacy

Nootropic, Anxiolytic, and Sedative Effects

Jatamansi is globally recognized as a premier brain tonic (*medhya*) that effectively manages anxiety, depression, and insomnia (*anidra*).

  • Mechanism: Active sesquiterpenes like valeranone modulate central gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) receptor pathways, prolonging pentobarbital-induced sleep time and decreasing central nervous system hyper-excitability.
  • Scientific Evidence: Experimental and clinical studies verify that root extracts significantly reduce anxiety indices, improve sleep quality, and enhance memory retrieval in cognitive deficit models.[4]

Neuroprotective and Antioxidant Actions

The herb exhibits remarkable protective capabilities against cerebral ischemia and neurodegenerative stress.

  • Mechanism: Scavenges reactive oxygen species (ROS), enhances superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase activities in brain tissue, and inhibits lipid peroxidation.
  • Scientific Evidence: Preclinical trials demonstrate that Jatamansi extracts attenuate oxidative stress damage during cerebral ischemia-reperfusion and support neuronal survival.[5]

Anticonvulsant and Anti-Epileptic Properties

Historically associated with *Sandnyasthapana* (restoring consciousness), Jatamansi is widely evaluated for managing seizure disorders.

  • Mechanism: Elevates brain GABA levels and raises the seizure threshold against chemically or electrically induced convulsions.
  • Scientific Evidence: Research reports dose-dependent protection against maximal electroshock and pentylenetetrazole-induced seizure models in rodents.[6]

Safety, Toxicity, and Dosage

  • Acute Toxicity: Jatamansi is generally safe within recommended therapeutic dosages; however, excessive consumption should be avoided due to its potent sedative nature.
  • Precautions: Use with caution during pregnancy, lactation, or alongside central nervous system depressants unless monitored by a qualified medical professional.
  • Standard Therapeutic Dosage:
    • Rhizome Powder (Churna): 2–3 g daily[1].
    • Decoction (Kwatha): 5–10 g of drug for preparation[1].

Summary of Therapeutic Profile

Therapeutic Applications of Nardostachys jatamansi
Indication Active Biomolecules Primary Pharmacological Action
Insomnia & Anxiety / Anidra Valeranone, Jatamansone Sedative, Anxiolytic, GABA modulator
Cognitive Decline / Medhya Sesquiterpenes, Lignans Nootropic, Neuroprotective
Skin Disorders / Kushtha Flavonoids, Coumarins Anti-inflammatory, Antioxidant

References

  1. ↑ 1.0 1.1 1.2 1.3 1.4 1.5 Anonymous. The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India. Department of Ayush, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Govt. of India, New Delhi, Part I. 1986; Volume I: 33.
  2. ↑ Dr. Indradev Tripathi, Raj Nighantu of Pandit Narahari, Chandanadi Varga, Verse no. 95, 97, 99, Chaukhambha Krishnadas Academy, Varanasi.
  3. ↑ 3.0 3.1 3.2 3.3 3.4 3.5 Shri Bhavamishra, Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Karpuradi Varga, verse no. 75, Edited by Padmashree Pro. Krushnachandra Chunekar, Reprint Edition, Chaukhambha Bharati Academy, 2015.
  4. ↑ Subhakaran, K.; Bapna, J. S. (2005). "Anxiolytic and antidepressant activities of Nardostachys jatamansi in rodents". Journal of Ethnopharmacology. 98 (3): 317–322. 
  5. ↑ Ahmad, M.; Ansari, R. A.; Rahman, S. (2006). "Neuroprotective effect of Nardostachys jatamansi on antioxidant defense system in global cerebral ischemia". Pharmacology Biochemistry and Behavior. 83 (1): 155–163. 
  6. ↑ Kulkarni, S. K.; Joshi, V. P. (1997). "Anticonvulsant activity of Nardostachys jatamansi in rats". Methods and Findings in Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology. 19 (9): 639–642. 

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