Manjistha

Identity

Common Name

Manjistha

Scientific Name

Rubia cordifolia

Botanical Family

Rubiaceae

Native Region

South Asia

Cultivation Regions

South Asia, Himalayan foothills

Plant Parts Used

Roots

Synonyms

Indian Madder, Manjishtha

Caffeine Level

Caffeine Free

A climbing vine with whorled lanceolate green leaves, small pale yellow-green starry flowers, and a cluster of reddish-orange cylindrical roots; the roots are used.

Historical Background

Manjistha has been a cornerstone Ayurvedic root for millennia, prized for blood, lymph, and skin traditions and brewed into a cleansing decoction. Its vivid red roots color the brew and have long symbolized purification in Ayurvedic practice.

Earliest recorded uses: Ayurvedic traditions for millennia; a blood, lymph, and skin root.

Traditional Uses

These uses document historical traditions and do not imply proven effectiveness.

Flavor & Aroma

Aroma: Earthy, slightly bitter, herbaceous

Tea Information

Research Summary

Manjistha has a tradition as a blood-purifying, lymph, and skin root tea; preclinical work shows antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and mild antimicrobial activity. Clinical evidence is insufficient; it is not a treatment for skin disease, lymphatic disorders, or any disease, though it remains an important Ayurvedic cleansing root.

Evidence levels reflect the currently available scientific literature and may change as new research emerges. Where evidence is limited or conflicting, this is stated plainly.

References & Sources