Jatamansi, a grass-like plant found along riverbanks that resembles matted locks (jata), is also known as “Jatashankar”. In Hindi it is called “Balchhad”, and in Sanskrit it is known as “Jatamansi” or “Maasi”. Acharya Charak included it among the Sanjna-sthapana (consciousness-restoring) group of herbs, which itself indicates how important it is. This ground-spreading, perennial plant contains a special aromatic oil, which is the source of its medicinal properties. Since Jatamansi grows in soil, especially sandy regions, sand tends to cling to it heavily, so it should be washed thoroughly two or three times and then dried before use. Its botanical name is Nordostachys Jatamansi.
Properties (Gunakarma): Jatamansi is an aromatic plant, and this fragrance comes from the volatile oil within it, which typically makes up about one-ninth of its content.
Because of its Sanjna-sthapana (consciousness-restoring) property, Jatamansi is a rare herb that gives highly effective results, mainly in mental disorders and diseases of the brain.
It is light, unctuous, and cooling in quality; in taste it is bitter, astringent, and somewhat sweet as well, while being pungent in its post-digestive effect.
In conditions where all three doshas are aggravated together, and especially where the nervous system has been affected as a result, both internal and external use of Jatamansi is beneficial. As the nervous system is strengthened, its efficiency improves. Massage with medicated oil prepared using Jatamansi, along with internal use of decoctions such as Maasyaadi Kwath, pacifies tridosha-related disorders as well as the mental disorders that arise from them.
Sannipatik fever – In the dangerous Sannipatik fever arising from all three doshas, applying a paste of Jatamansi and guggulu with water helps bring down the temperature. Massaging the head with oil medicated with Jatamansi, or Shirodhara with it, keeps the mind calm and gives quick relief from burning sensation in the body.
Premature greying of hair – Jatamansi is an essential ingredient in virtually every hair-tonic formulation, and its use helps prevent hair from turning white. In cases of premature greying, regular head massage with oil medicated with Jatamansi, using it as Nasya (nasal drops), and using it for Shirodhara, can all help stop hair from greying further, and to some extent even help darken it. Jatamansi can be used in all hair-oil formulations.
Hysteria, epilepsy, and possession-like states – In conditions such as hysteria, epilepsy, and “bhoot-badha” (possession-like states) where the patient becomes unresponsive, fumigation with Jatamansi along with Sugandhivala, guggulu, sandalwood, and agaru helps restore responsiveness.
Taking half a gram of Jatamansi powder twice daily with milk generates warmth in the stomach. It pushes Vata upward, producing belching and sweating, which helps restore sensation in the nervous system.
Anxiety, depression, and stress – In states of mental restlessness, giving a small dose of Jatamansi powder with milk over a long period calms the mind.
Weakness – In muscular weakness and general debility, taking Jatamansi with milk strengthens the nervous system and reduces fatigue.
Bladder inflammation – In painful or obstructed urination and bladder inflammation, a decoction of Jatamansi given along with Gokhru powder reduces swelling and helps restore free urination.
Liver inflammation and jaundice – Since Jatamansi has a bile-clearing (pittasaraka) property, a small dose of its decoction stimulates appetite and clears bile through the stools during jaundice and liver-swelling conditions. Since Jatamansi can also induce vomiting, it is used with appropriate care in such cases.
Headache – Both internal use and external application as Shirobhyanga (head massage) with Jatamansi are extremely beneficial for headaches arising from nerve-related disorders; for such conditions, Jatamansi gives quicker and stronger results than other remedies like asafetida or musk.
Menstrual disorders – Jatamansi is beneficial in cases of severe menstrual pain and irregular menstrual flow, and gives especially good results for the physical and mental discomfort commonly experienced in the days leading up to menstruation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is Jatamansi mainly used for?
Because of its consciousness-restoring (Sanjna-sthapana) property, Jatamansi is considered highly effective for mental disorders and diseases of the brain; it strengthens the nervous system and improves its efficiency.
How is Jatamansi useful for headaches?
Both internal use and external application as Shirobhyanga (head massage) with Jatamansi are considered very beneficial for headaches caused by nerve-related disorders.
How is Jatamansi used to prevent grey hair?
Regular head massage with oil medicated using Jatamansi helps prevent premature greying of hair and, to some extent, can even help darken existing grey hair.
What should be kept in mind while taking Jatamansi?
Taking Jatamansi in excess can cause vomiting, so the dose should be kept low and taken only on the advice of a qualified Ayurvedic physician; in mental disorders, it should be used only with proper diagnosis and supervision.
Dr. Nikul Patel (B.A.M.S.)
307, 3rd Floor, Shalin Complex, Above Farki Lassi, Krishnabaug Char Rasta, Maninagar, Ahmedabad – 380008
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