Manjistha (Rubia Cordifolia): Benefits, Uses, and What the Research Suggests
At a glance (TL;DR)
- Manjistha (Rubia cordifolia, Indian madder) is a deep-red root used in Ayurvedic skin traditions.*
- Mix a teaspoon with rose water, yoghurt or honey for a 10-15 minute face mask; it can tint skin and stain fabric.
- Internally, follow the label; it has begun to appear in human pilot studies.
What Is Manjistha?
Manjistha (Rubia cordifolia), known in English as Indian madder, is a perennial climbing vine whose roots are dried and powdered. The root has a deep red colour, which historically made it a natural dye as well as an Ayurvedic herb. It naturally contains anthraquinones and cyclic peptides.
What Does It Do?
In Ayurvedic tradition manjistha is classed among the herbs used to support healthy skin and a clear complexion, and it is one of the classical blood-cleansing (raktashodhaka) herbs.* It appears in both internal preparations and topical pastes.
Common Uses
- Mixed into DIY face masks and ubtan pastes with rose water, milk or honey
- Stirred into warm water as a traditional daily preparation
- Included in classical Ayurvedic skin formulations
- A traditional natural dye for textiles
How to Use Manjistha
Topically: mix about a teaspoon of powder with rose water, plain yoghurt or honey into a smooth paste, apply, leave 10 to 15 minutes and rinse. Note that manjistha is genuinely red and can temporarily tint skin and stain fabric or grout, so keep it away from good towels.
Internally: follow the directions on your product label, or the guidance of your healthcare professional.
What the Research Suggests
Manjistha has been reviewed for its phytochemistry and traditional applications, and has begun to appear in human pilot studies. Research is ongoing and results vary.
- View review: Rubia cordifolia L., traditional uses, phytochemistry and clinical applications (PubMed)
- View study: Triphala and manjistha supplementation and gut microbiota, randomized placebo-controlled pilot (PubMed)
Manjistha in a DIY Routine
Manjistha is one of the classic ubtan powders, alongside neem for clarifying routines and amla for hair. Many people keep all three and blend them for different masks.
Explore the Dr. Herbalist range
Manjishta Powder 200g · Neem Powder 200g · Triphala Powder 200g
*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is manjistha used for? Manjistha is a classical Ayurvedic herb traditionally used to support healthy skin and a clear complexion, both in masks and in internal preparations.
Is manjistha the same as Indian madder? Yes. Manjistha, manjishta and Indian madder are all names for Rubia cordifolia.
How do I make a manjistha face mask? Mix about a teaspoon of powder with rose water, yoghurt or honey into a paste, apply for 10 to 15 minutes, then rinse.
Does manjistha stain? The root is naturally deep red and can temporarily tint skin and stain fabric, so use older towels and rinse surfaces promptly.
