Nardostachys jatamansi is a flowering plant of the Valerian or honeysuckle family Valerianaceae that grows at high attitude in the Himalayas, Sikkim, Kumaun, Bhutan, Nepal and southwest China. This species has a very high demand in the market because of its medicinal value so its population is declining day by day.
It is also called bal-chad, Tapasvini, muskroot, nard, nardin and spikenard. The plant grows approximately 1 meter in height and has small bell like pink flowers with intense aroma due to the presence of an essential oil known as spikenard. The aromatic oil with thick consistency is mostly used for religious purposes as perfume or incense. This herb is useful in birthing difficulties, insomnia, as a sedative and for other minor health ailments.
Natural Constituents of Rhizome of Jatamanshi
Nardin A, Nardin B, Nardal, Jatamol A and B, Jatamansic acid, Nardostachysin (terpenoid) Taraxerone, Spirojatamol Valeranone, Ursolic acid, Chlorogenic acid, Ferulic acid, Syringic acid, Aromadendrene Protocatechuic acid, octacosanol, beta-sitosterol, oleanolic acid and acaciin.
Benefits of Jatamanshi:
- Jatamanshi is a cooling herb and is good for hyperactivity and anger related issues. It is used for treating Pitta doshas (fire) in Ayurveda.
- The herb is good for stress, depression and sleeplessness or insomnia.
- Works as a CNS depressant. It helps to calm the brain.
- To treat mental disorders (epilepsy and convulsions), nervine disorders and emotional instability.
- It also works as cardio tonic because it has an antioxidant property.
- Treats irregular heartbeats and manages high blood pressure.
- Enhances memory and learning.
- Reduces pancreatic inflammation.
- It is a laxative herb so it relieves constipation. It is useful in treating bloating, gas and other digestive ailments.
- Supports female fertility and eases menstrual pain and cramps. It restores the overall health of uterus.
- Jatamansi oil stimulates hair growth and prevents premature greying. Jatamansi is an effective remedy for dandruff.
- It helps in faster wound healing. It also soothes redness, itching and rashes on the skin.
Jatamanshi Oil
The oil of Jatamanshi contains ketonic sesquiterpenes such as jatamansone, valeranone and dnardostachone which provides sedative and tranquilizer qualities. This dark green oil with fragrance like moist earth, is one of the most beneficial oils to calm down an overly active mind, for dealing with any kind of grief, subconscious trauma and bad dreams. It also promotes deep and rejuvenating sleep. Jatamanshi oil can be inhaled by gently rubbing on the palm for instant calmness.
Jatamanshi and Safety: It should not be used in excess during menses as it may cause high bleeding. Excess consumption may lead to vomiting, abdominal pain and diarrhoea but this is very rare as it is a natural plant which is safe to use.
Jatamanshi is the most rewarding herb in Ayurveda and is highly effective for vata (wind) dosha such as fatigue, depleted energy and dryness of body tissues. It provides vitality and peace. It is one of the rare herbs that has a calming effect in spite of increased level of neurotransmitters in the body.