Names & Classification
- Botanical Name
- Rubia cordifolia
- Sanskrit Name
- Manjistha
- English Name(s)
- Manjistha / Indian Madder
- Family
- Rubiaceae
- Part Used
- Root
About This Herb
Manjistha is Ayurveda's premier blood purifier and skin-clarifying herb. With its distinctive red root (which has been used as a natural dye for centuries), it works from the inside out — cleansing the blood, supporting the liver, and promoting a clear, radiant complexion.
Where It Grows
Native to Pakistan, India, China, Korea, Japan, and Mongolia. In India, found in hilly areas including the Himalayan region, Darjeeling, and high altitude forest regions. Also grows in France, USA, Europe, Egypt, and Netherlands. Prefers loamy soils with constant moisture levels.
Ayurvedic Profile
The foremost Rakta Shodhak (blood purifier) and Varnya (complexion-enhancing) herb. Manjistha's red color is itself significant in Ayurveda — it is believed to directly nourish and purify Rakta Dhatu (blood tissue). Classified as Raktaprasadaka (blood-beautifying) and Kushthaghna (anti-dermatosis). Rasa: Tikta (Bitter), Kashaya (Astringent). Virya: Ushna (Heating). Vipaka: Katu (Pungent). Dosha: Pacifies Pitta and Kapha.
Key Benefits
Blood purification, skin clarity, lymphatic drainage, complexion enhancement, detoxification
Research & Studies
The following research highlights scientific validation of traditional uses:
A comprehensive review of Rubia cordifolia L.: Traditional uses, phytochemistry, pharmacological activities, and clinical applications
Authors: PMC/NCBI (Review article)
Journal: PMC (PubMed Central) (2022)
Comprehensive review demonstrating that Rubia cordifolia exhibits anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and potent blood purifying properties with cardioprotective effects including calcium channel blocking, diuretic, antiplatelet, antidiabetic, and vasodilating properties.
Ameliorative effect of methanol extract of Rubia cordifolia in N-nitrosodiethylamine-induced hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: PubMed Research Team
Journal: PubMed (2012)
Research demonstrated that methanol extract of Rubia cordifolia exhibits hepatoprotective effects and potential anti-cancer activity against chemically-induced hepatocellular carcinoma in animal models.
Crosstalk of Cancer Signaling Pathways by Cyclic Hexapeptides and Anthraquinones from Rubia cordifolia
Authors: PMC/NCBI (Research article)
Journal: PMC (PubMed Central) (2021)
Study identified and isolated anthraquinones (alizarin, purpurin, emodin), lignans, and cyclic hexapeptides from R. cordifolia that exhibit anti-cancer properties through modulation of signaling pathways and induction of apoptosis in cancer cells.
Characterization of Rubia cordifolia L. root extract and its evaluation of cardioprotective effect in Wistar rat model
Authors: PMC/NCBI Research Team
Journal: PMC (PubMed Central) (2018)
Preclinical research demonstrated that Rubia cordifolia exhibits potent antioxidant properties and cardioprotective effects in animal models through prevention of oxidative stress and maintenance of cardiac function.
Manjistha (Rubia Cordifolia) - A helping herb in cure of acne
Authors: ResearchGate Research Team
Journal: ResearchGate (2017)
Study validated traditional use of Manjistha in treating acne through demonstration of anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that help reduce acne-causing bacteria and skin inflammation.
Products Containing Manjistha / Indian Madder
- Blood Cleanse Plex (Classical Formulation)
- Skin Tone (Classical Formulation)
- Withania Plex (Classical Formulation)
Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Please consult with a qualified healthcare provider before using any herbal supplements, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medications, or have pre-existing health conditions.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.