Botanical Overview

Latin name: Rubia cordifolia

Family: Rubiaceae

Parts used: Root, Rhizome

Common names: Indian madder, Manjistha, Red root

Energetics

This herb has a cooling temperature and drying moisture quality. Its taste profile includes bitter, astringent, and sweet. It is tonifying in nature and primarily affects the blood aspect of the body.

Primary Actions

• Anti-inflammatory
• Antioxidant
• Blood purifier
• Diuretic
• Hepatoprotective
• Styptic (stops bleeding)

Indications

Western

• Inflammation
• Skin disorders
• Urinary infections
• Menstrual disorders
• Bleeding disorders

Syndromes

TCM

• Blood heat
• Skin eruptions
• Eczema
• Urinary difficulties

Syndromes

• Blood stagnation
• Heat in blood

Ayurveda

• Skin diseases
• Excess heat
• Blood disorders
• Urinary problems
• Menstrual irregularities

Syndromes

• Rakta dushti (blood impurity)
• Pitta imbalance
• Kapha disorders

Unani

• Skin eruptions
• Internal bleeding
• Jaundice
• Edema

Syndromes

Constituents & Mechanisms

Rubia cordifolia contains anthraquinones, iridoids, glycosides, triterpenoids, and quinones which contribute to its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and blood-purifying effects.

Dosage & Preparations

• Decoction: 3-6 g daily
• Powder: 1-3 g 1-2 times daily
• Tincture (1:5, 40% alcohol): 3-5 mL 1-3 times daily

Safety & Contraindications

Generally safe when used appropriately. Avoid during pregnancy due to potential uterine stimulant effects. Use caution in bleeding disorders and with anticoagulant medications. May cause photosensitivity in some individuals.

Astrological Correspondences

Planetary ruler: Mars

Elemental rulers: Fire, Earth

Selected References

• Indian Medicinal Plants: A Compendium of 500 Species
• Phytochemical and Pharmacological Studies on Rubia cordifolia Linn.: A Review
• PFAF – Rubia cordifolia Monograph
• The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India
• The Complete Herbal: A Practical Guide to the Healing Properties of Herbs by Nicholas Culpeper