Jatamansi: Health Benefits, Uses, Dosage and Side Effects

The other name for Jatamansi in Ayurveda is "Tapaswani." Jatamansi is a medicinal herb that helps to cure a lot of diseases and health problems. The medicinal herb offers a solution to almost all health problems. Due to the antioxidant property present in the herb Jatamansi, it helps in preventing cell damage and ameliorates brain functions. It is considered as a brain tonic by improving the memory of the brain. The Jatamansi oil can be applied to our skin to prevent any skin infections.

The Jatamansi herb has many useful and effective qualities. Thus, it is used in both Ayurvedic treatments as well as in Scientific treatments.

Origination of the Word “Jatamansi”

The etymology of the word "Jatamansi" is from the Sanskrit language. The botanical name "Nardostachys Jatamansi" is derived from the Sanskrit word "Narada." This is called "Spikenard" in the English language. Although there are numerous speculations that the word could be derived from Greek, Arabic, etc., the word derived from Sanskrit seems to be more reasonable.

Historical Uses of Jatamansi

The Jatamansi is not something that has been used in the present, but this has a great history. It has been used by our ancestors for a long time now. It is believed that the herb Jatamansi is used to treat certain health problems and diseases such as anxiety, insomnia, epilepsy, and the major important thing is that it helps the brain by improving its memory function.

The jatamansi is available in many forms, such as powder, oil, tablets, and capsules. A small amount of Jatamansi helps and benefits people for a long time. This herb is continued to be used in both past and present for good results in scientific and Ayurvedic treatments.

Benefits of Using Jatamansi in Ayurvedic Treatment

Usage of Jatamansi in Ayurvedic Treatment has innumerable benefits for people suffering from insomnia, anxiety, epilepsy, and also for people with poor memory. In Ayurvedic treatment, this herb has been widely used. Nowadays, a lot of people suffer from anxiety, and this pandemic situation does not make it any easier. The herb Jatamansi helps to lessen anxiety. This is because of its Tridosha and Medhya quality that improves intelligence.

Apart from treating anxious people, the Jatamansi can be used externally as well. For instance, it helps to reduce wrinkles and also helps in the healing wound. It is also used to manufacture dyes and perfumes. Thus the benefits of Jatamansi are a great many.

Treating Diseases/ Health Problems Using Jatamansi

It is important to know the diseases and health problems to which the Jatamansi herb can be used. Most of the diseases cured with the help of Jatamansi are neurological problems. Because Mamsi is considered a herb that helps one calm and relaxes, you will get to know for what all sickness the Mamsi (Jatamansi) can be used and how they are used in Scientific and Ayurvedic treatments.

• Poor memory

• Seizure Disorders

• Anxiety Problems

• Lack of Sleep (Insomnia)

Forms of Jatamansi in Ayurveda with Recommended Dosage

Just like how Jatamansi has numerous names such as Mamsi, Jata, Balchara, Manchi, etc., it is also available in various forms. The various forms of Manchi aid one in consumption as well as if required to use externally. The various forms of Jatamansi are Jatamansi Tablets, Jatamansi Powder, and Jatamansi Capsules. All these forms are used in Ayurveda in a measured amount.

You can follow the dosage mentioned below, or if consulted with your doctor, then you may continue following your doctor's advice.

• Jatamansi Tablets: Take 1-2 tablets twice a day, preferably after lunch and dinner.
• Jatamansi Capsules: 1-2 capsules of Jatamansi has to be taken twice a day (after lunch and dinner).
• Jatamansi Powder: ¼ - ½ teaspoon of Jatamansi powder is to be taken twice a day.

It is always better to consult a physician before taking up medicines. Do not take an excessive amount than required as it might not help the process of healing.  

Types of Ayurvedic Care with Jatamansi

1. Jatamansi Powder

The powder form of Jatamansi has great quality. It can be used to treat digestive problems, jaundice and also strengthens the liver. When the powder is mixed with the right element, it improves brain function. This can easily be diluted in any liquid and consumed for better results. The Jatamansi Powder is extracted from the root of the plant. It has to be consumed by diluting it with milk, water, or even honey. People who hate to take capsules or tablets may take the powdered form.

Tips:

• An only ¼-½ teaspoon of Jatamansi powder has to be taken.
• Dilute it with warm milk, water, or honey
• Drink it twice a day after lunch and dinner

1. Jatamansi Capsules

The form of Jatamansi in the form of capsules is a form that is lovable by all the kids. Mostly kids like to have their medicines in the form of colored capsules. The capsules help in reducing blood pressure.

Tips:

• Take 1- 2 capsules of Jatamansi capsules.
• Consume the capsule with warm milk or water
• Have it twice a day for better results

1. Jatamansi Tablets

A lot of people do not prefer the tablet form. Especially kids don't prefer to take medicines in the form of tablets. But these Jatamansi tablets are mostly used by adults. The jatamansi tablets are used to induce periods, treat epilepsy, anxiety, and insomnia.

Tips:

• Take 1-2 tablets of Jatamansi.
• Consume the tablet with milk or water.
• Take it twice a day for good results.

1. Jatamansi Oil

Jatamansi Oil is something that is used externally and not internally. The oil helps in the better growth of hair and nourishes the hair root. It also helps one to sleep well when applied. Using the oil of Jatamansi makes your skin wrinkle-free as well.

Tips:

• 2-5 drops of jatamansi oil have to be taken
• Apply the oil after mixing it with almond or coconut oil
• Application of jatamansi oil regularly shows a tremendous result

Side Effects of Jatamansi

Jatamansi has both good and bad qualities. The children are not allowed to take this herb sans physician’s consultation. Excessive consumption of Jatamansi causes:

• Vomiting
• Stomach ache

Ayurvedic experts and Scientific experts suggest consuming Jatamansi with a doctor’s consultation.

Precautionary Guide while Using Jatamansi

There are certain precautions to be taken while consuming Jatamansi.  The following precautions have to be taken before consuming the herb.

For Pregnant Women

• View of Science Experts

It is said that there is no proper medical and scientific research suggesting that it is safe for pregnant women. So, it is better if pregnant women and breastfeeding women do not consume Jatamansi.

For Women during Periods

• View of Science Experts

The Jatamansi has the quality to induce periods. So it is advised that women undergoing periods are not to consume Jatamansi as it may cause severe and heavy flow of periods if consumed during periods.

For People with Blood Pressure & Children

• View of Science Experts

When prescribing to a person with blood pressure and a child, a lot of attention is required as the Jatamansi consumed by people with blood pressure might lower their blood pressure quickly. So, one must check up on them often.

Frequently Asked Questions About Jatamansi

When should a person consume Jatamansi?

• View of ayurvedic expert

A person should consume Jatamansi in any form only twice a day and not more than that. Excess consumption of Jatamansi has consequences.

What happens when a person consumes Jatamansi excessively?

• View of scientific expert

Excessive consumption of Jatamansi is not good for health as it may cause dysentery, vomiting, and stomach pain. So it is advisable to consume Jatamansi only twice a day.