📖 Manjistha, Manjishtha, Samanga, Bhandiri, Yojanavalli, Vikasa🇮🇳 Manjith, Manjistha, MajithFamily: RubiaceaePart: Root and stem (dried root and root-stock — the primary part specified in classical texts and used in essentially all clinical, animal, and cosmetic research). API (Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India) specifies the dried root and stem as the official part. Manjistha belongs to the same genus (Rubia) as European Madder (Rubia tinctorum), a botanically related but chemically distinct species with an independently documented safety profile discussed below.
🔓 Open AccessResearch or content that's made freely available to everyone, without a subscription or paywall. — All clinical data freely available
Daily Dose
1000 – 4000
Best Time
With meals or after food — classical texts and general Ayurvedic pharmacognosy sources describe Manjistha as reasonably well tolerated with food, which may also help offset its Ushna (hot) viryaIn Ayurveda, the heating or cooling potency of a substance once it's in the body — classified mainly as either heating (ushna) or cooling (shita). and Guru (heavy) gunaIn Ayurveda, the inherent physical qualities of a substance — such as heavy or light, oily or dry, hot or cold — used to predict how it will affect the body. in sensitive individuals. For topicalApplied directly to the skin or a specific body surface, rather than taken internally./skin use (as in Kumkumadi Taila), application is typically to clean, dry skin, often at night as part of a facial oil routine.
📚 Compiled from classical Ayurvedic literature & published research|✅ Expert reviewed by Ashish Pareek, PhD Scholar|Updated 26 July 2026
⚡ Quick Answer
Manjistha (Rubia cordifolia) (Rubia cordifolia L.) is manjistha (Rubia cordifolia L.), known in English as Indian Madder, is a climbing perennial herb of the Rubiaceae family whose dried root is one of the most widely used single herbs in Ayurvedic dermatology. Classically termed a RaktashodhakaAn Ayurvedic term for a 'blood purifier' — a substance believed to cleanse and improve the quality of blood and, by extension, skin health. (blood purifier), Manjistha is prescribed across a wide range of inflammatory skin conditions including acne,...
About Manjistha (Rubia cordifolia)
Manjistha (Rubia cordifolia L.), known in English as Indian Madder, is a climbing perennial herb of the Rubiaceae family whose dried root is one of the most widely used single herbs in Ayurvedic dermatology. Classically termed a Raktashodhaka (blood purifier), Manjistha is prescribed across a wide range of inflammatory skin conditions including acne, pigmentation, eczemaA chronic skin condition causing dry, itchy, inflamed patches of skin, often linked to allergies or an overactive immune response., and wounds, and is a defining ingredient in the classical formulationA specific herbal recipe or combination that has been used in traditional medicine texts for generations, as opposed to a single herb used on its own. Kumkumadi Taila, still one of the most commercially recognised Ayurvedic skin oils globally. Its root contains a distinctive anthraquinoneA class of plant pigment compounds; some have laxative, antimicrobial, or antioxidant properties, while certain types have raised safety concerns with long-term use. pigment profile, most notably purpurinA red anthraquinone pigment found in the root of Manjistha (Rubia cordifolia), studied for effects on skin pigmentation enzymes. and munjistin, alongside naphthohydroquinones including molluginA compound found in Manjistha (Rubia cordifolia) root studied for anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity., furomollugin, and rubilactone. Laboratory research has demonstrated tyrosinaseAn enzyme that controls the first step of melanin (skin pigment) production; often a target for skin-brightening ingredients.-inhibitory activity (relevant to skin pigmentation), antibacterial activity against acne-associated bacteria, antiviral activity against hepatitis B surface antigen in liver cell culture, antiulcer activity, and — in a notable 2023 study — protection against sepsis in a mouse model via inhibition of the TAK1-NF-kBNuclear factor kappa-B — a protein complex that switches on inflammation-related genes inside cells. A key target in anti-inflammatory research. inflammatory pathway. Despite this substantial laboratory and animal research base, only one human clinical trial has been published to date: a 2020 randomised, double-blind, placeboAn inactive substance given to some participants in a study so researchers can compare it against the real treatment and see whether the treatment's effect is genuinely due to the substance itself.-controlled pilot study from the University of California, Davis, examining Manjistha's effect on the human gut microbiomeThe trillions of bacteria and other microbes living in your intestines, which influence digestion, immunity, and even mood., which found highly individualised responses without a clear, consistent pattern across participants. Manjistha shares its genus with Rubia tinctorum (European Madder), a related species whose anthraquinone compound lucidinA compound found in Rubia tinctorum (a relative of Manjistha) shown to be genotoxic in laboratory studies, leading to restrictions on that herb's use in some countries. has documented genotoxicDescribing a substance capable of damaging the genetic material (DNA) inside cells. and carcinogenic activity in long-term rodent studies, prompting regulatory restriction in Germany — a safety consideration this profile addresses directly given the shared plant chemistry.
🌍 Habitat:
Native to India, the Himalayan region (up to 3,600 m elevation), Sri Lanka, China, Japan, tropical Africa, and parts of Southeast Asia. A perennial climbing herb with distinctive square stems and whorled, prickly-margined leaves, commonly found scrambling over other vegetation in forest edges, hedges, and shrubland. Widely cultivated commercially in India, particularly in hilly and sub-Himalayan regions, both for Ayurvedic medicinal use and historically as a natural red dye source (the root yields the pigments purpurin and munjistin). Not currently listed as globally threatened; commercial cultivation meets most demand.
📖 Historical & Ayurvedic Background
Manjistha occupies a defining position in Ayurvedic dermatology as the prototype Raktashodhaka (blood purifier) — a classification specifically describing herbs believed to cleanse and improve the quality of Rakta DhatuThe seven body tissues in Ayurveda — plasma, blood, muscle, fat, bone, marrow, and reproductive tissue — each produced from the previous one. (blood tissue), the tissue layer classically linked to skin health, complexion, and inflammatory skin conditions.
CLASSICAL CLASSIFICATION:
Charaka SamhitaA classical compiled text in Ayurveda, such as Charaka Samhita or Sushruta Samhita, containing foundational medical knowledge. — Manjistha is listed among the Varnya Dashemani (ten complexion-promoting herbs) and the Kushthaghna Dashemani (ten herbs for skin disorders), placing it in two of Charaka's most dermatologically significant classical herb groupings
Sushruta Samhita — Manjistha is included among herbs used for Raktapitta (bleeding disorders) and Vrana Ropana (wound healing), reflecting a classical understanding of its action on both blood quality and tissue repair
Ashtanga Hridayam (Vagbhata) — Manjistha is prescribed within compound formulations for Kushtha (skin disease) and as an ingredient supporting Varna (complexion)
Bhavaprakasha NighantuA classical Ayurvedic materia medica text that categorises medicinal plants, minerals, and foods with their properties. (16th century CE) — describes Manjistha as Tikta-Kashaya-Madhura rasaIn Ayurveda, the immediate taste of a substance when it touches the tongue (like sweet, bitter, or astringent) — each taste is believed to have specific effects on the body beyond just flavor. (bitter-astringentA substance that causes tissue to tighten or contract — often used traditionally to reduce minor bleeding, diarrhea, or excess secretions.-sweet taste), Sheeta virya (cooling potencyThe amount of a substance needed to produce a given effect — a more potent substance needs a smaller dose.), KrimighnaAn Ayurvedic therapeutic action meaning antimicrobial or antiparasitic — traditionally used against infections and parasites. (antimicrobialA substance that kills or inhibits the growth of microorganisms including bacteria, viruses, and fungi.), Vishaghna (detoxifying), Vranaropana (wound-healing), and Varnya (complexion-promoting)
CLASSICAL THERAPEUTIC ACTIONS (KARMAIn this context, the specific therapeutic action a substance has on the body — not to be confused with the broader philosophical idea of karma. For example, an herb's karma might be described as a digestive stimulant or nerve tonic.):
Raktashodhaka — blood purifier; the defining classical action, believed to clear circulating toxins affecting skin and tissue quality
Varnya — complexion-promoting and skin-brightening
Vranaropana — wound-healing
Kushtaghna — beneficial in skin disorders broadly, including inflammatory and pigmentary conditions
Shothahara — anti-inflammatory
Krimighna — antimicrobial
Raktapittahara — used for bleeding disorders classically attributed to aggravated PittaThe Ayurvedic dosha associated with fire and transformation — linked to digestion, metabolism, and body temperature. When out of balance, it's associated with inflammation, irritability, and acidity. affecting blood
KUMKUMADI TAILA — THE CLASSICAL SKIN OIL:
Manjistha is one of the defining ingredients of Kumkumadi Taila, a classical multi-herb medicated oil combining saffron (Kumkuma), Manjistha, sandalwood, and other herbs, traditionally applied for improving skin radiance, tone, and the appearance of blemishes and scarring. This formulation remains one of the most recognisable and commercially available Ayurvedic skincare products worldwide, and Manjistha's inclusion reflects its long-standing classical reputation specifically for skin quality rather than general systemicAffecting the whole body, as opposed to a single, localised area. use.
CLASSICAL FORMULATIONS:
Manjistha ChurnaA finely powdered Ayurvedic herbal preparation. — dried root powder, taken internally for Raktashodhaka action
Manjishthadi KwathaAn Ayurvedic water decoction — prepared by boiling herbs in water, usually until the volume is reduced to one quarter. — classical decoctionA traditional preparation method where tougher plant parts (like roots, bark, or seeds) are simmered in water for an extended time to extract their active compounds. for skin and blood-related conditions
Manjishthadi GhritaA medicated clarified butter (ghee) infused with herbal extracts — used in Ayurvedic preparations for fat-soluble compounds. — medicated ghee preparation combining Manjistha with other herbs for skin and wound conditions
Kumkumadi Taila — the most globally recognised classical formulation containing Manjistha, primarily for topical/external skin use
Ushna (hot potency) — note some regional classical sources describe a milder or near-neutral virya; Ushna is the more commonly cited classification
VipakaIn Ayurveda, the effect a substance has after it's fully digested — which can be different from how it tastes going in. Thought to influence long-term effects on the body. (Post-digest)
Katu (pungent post-digestive effect)
DoshaOne of three fundamental energies in Ayurveda — Vata, Pitta, and Kapha — believed to govern different physical and mental functions. Ayurvedic practitioners try to keep them in balance for good health. Effect
KaphaThe Ayurvedic dosha associated with earth and water — linked to structure, lubrication, and stability in the body. When out of balance, it's associated with sluggishness, weight gain, and congestion.-Pitta shamaka (pacifies Kapha and Pitta doshas):• Pitta (fire-transformation energy) — pacified through Tikta (bitter) and Kashaya (astringent) rasa despite Ushna virya; this is the classical basis for Manjistha's use in Pitta-type skin inflammation, redness, and bleeding disorders• Kapha (water-earth energy) — pacified through Tikta rasa, Ruksha (dry) guna, and Katu vipaka; supportive of its use in Kapha-type skin conditions involving excess oiliness or congestion• VataThe Ayurvedic dosha associated with movement, air, and space — linked to things like circulation, nerve function, and the mind. When out of balance, it's associated with anxiety, dry skin, and irregular digestion. (movement energy) — Ruksha guna may aggravate Vata in excess or in Vata-dominant individuals with dry skin conditions; appropriate anupanaThe vehicle or adjuvant taken alongside an Ayurvedic herb — such as warm milk, honey, or ghee — that modifies or enhances its action. (oil-based vehicle) is classically recommended to offset this
Karma (Action)
Raktashodhaka (blood purifier — primary and defining classical action), Varnya (complexion-promoting), Vranaropana (wound-healing), Kushtaghna (beneficial in skin disorders), Shothahara (anti-inflammatory), Krimighna (antimicrobial), Raktapittahara (used for bleeding disorders), Vishaghna (detoxifying), RasayanaA category of Ayurvedic herbs and practices aimed at rejuvenation, longevity, and strengthening the body's overall resilience — roughly comparable to the modern idea of a tonic or adaptogen. (rejuvenative, in some classical contexts for skin tissue specifically)
✅ Health Benefits
⭐ PreliminarySkin conditions (acne, pigmentation, complexion, wound healing): despite being Manjistha's dominant classical and commercial indication, no human clinical trial measuring any skin outcome has been published. Evidence is limited to in vitroLatin for "in glass" — research done in a lab setting (like a test tube or petri dish) rather than in a living organism. Useful for early research, but results don't always hold up the same way in the body.enzyme inhibitionWhen a substance blocks or slows down a particular enzyme — this can cause other drugs or substances to build up in the body to higher, potentially riskier levels. (tyrosinase) and in vitro anti-acne bacterial suppression studies. A trial specifically registered to measure skin biophysical outcomes (NCT03477825) has published gut microbiotaThe full community of microorganisms — bacteria, viruses, fungi — living in or on a part of the body, such as the gut or skin. results but a completed, published skin-outcome dataset from this registration was not identified.
⭐ PreliminaryGut microbiota modulation: the only completed human trial (Peterson et al., 2020, pilot DB-RCTDouble-Blind RCT — neither the participants nor the researchers know who is getting treatment vs placebo, eliminating psychological bias., n=9 Manjistha completers) found highly individualised responses with no consistent taxa uniformly altered across participants, though some trend-level changes (Akkermansia muciniphilaA species of beneficial gut bacteria associated with a healthy intestinal lining and metabolic health., Rikenellaceae) were noted. The study's own conclusion emphasises the lack of a clear response signature. This is genuinely early-stage, inconclusive human evidence.
⭐ PreliminaryAntiviral, antiulcer, anti-sepsis mechanisms: supported only by in vitro cell culture or animal model studies, several of which (including the 2023 sepsis finding) are genuinely recent and mechanistically interesting, but none have progressed to any human trial.
Anthraquinones: purpurin (124-trihydroxyanthraquinone — the primary red pigment and most studied compound)munjistin (a related anthraquinone specific to Rubia cordifoliagiving the root its characteristic colour); Naphthohydroquinones: molluginfuromolluginrubilactone (documented antiviral and anti-inflammatory activity); Triterpenoids: contributing to documented antiulcer and antioxidantA substance that neutralises free radicals — unstable molecules that can damage cells and DNA when they accumulate. activity; Iridoid glycosides; Sterols: daucosterolsitosterol (documented antimicrobial contributors); Rubiacordone and related glycosides (documented antibacterial activity against gram-positive organisms)
📊 StandardizationA manufacturing process that guarantees an herbal extract contains a consistent, measured amount of its key active compound in every batch — without it, potency can vary a lot between products.: No single universally accepted pharmacopoeial standardisation marker:• API (Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India) specifies the dried root and stem with identity and purity testing requirements, but does not mandate a specific purpurin or munjistin percentage• Purpurin content is the most common research-gradeGrading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation — a system used to rate the quality and certainty of clinical evidence. standardisation marker; HPLC-based bioactivity-guided fractionation studies have identified purpurin-rich fractions as the primary source of tyrosinase-inhibitory activity• Commercial Manjistha powder and extractA concentrated preparation made by pulling the active compounds out of a raw herb, usually using water, alcohol, or another solvent — generally stronger, dose-for-dose, than the raw plant material. products are generally not standardised to a specific anthraquinone percentage, meaning potency can vary meaningfully between sources and harvest batches• The human clinical trial to date (Peterson et al., 2020) used a defined 2,000 mg/day whole-herb dietary supplement dose rather than a purpurin-standardised extract, meaning even the one available human data point does not tell us the effect of a standardised compound
🧬 Mechanism of Action
📍 Pathways:
Purpurin → competitive, reversible monophenolase-predominant tyrosinase inhibition → reduced melaninThe natural pigment that gives skin, hair, and eyes their colour, produced by cells called melanocytes. synthesis (in vitro, bioactivity-guided fractionation study); Rubia cordifolia extract → suppression of neutrophil-generated reactive oxygen species in response to Cutibacterium acnes → reduced acne-associated inflammation (in vitro, 2003 study); Mollugin → inhibition of TAK1-NF-kB and MAPK signalling pathways + activation of Keap1-Nrf2A protein that activates the body's natural antioxidant defence genes when cells are under stress. antioxidant pathway in macrophages → protection against sepsis-related inflammation (2023 mouse model); Furomollugin and mollugin → reduced hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) release in Hep3B human hepatoma cell culture → proposed antiviral mechanism (in vitro, human cell line but not a human clinical trial); Root triterpenoids → gastric mucosal protection → antiulcer activity in animal models (rat, multiple ulcer-induction methods); Rubiacordone and sterol fraction → antibacterial activity against gram-positive organisms including Bacillus subtilis and Streptococcus faecalis (in vitro)
Manjistha's pharmacology centres on its distinctive anthraquinone pigment profile, led by purpurin, alongside a naphthohydroquinone fraction (mollugin, furomollugin, rubilactone) that has attracted specific and relatively recent research interest, including a notable 2023 mechanistic study.
Reduced melanin synthesis In vitro / bioactivity-guided study only
Source: Tyrosinase inhibitory potential of purpurin in Rubia cordifolia — a bioactivity-guided approach, ScienceDirect. In vitro enzyme assay data; no human skin-lightening trial has confirmed this translates to a measurable clinical outcome.
2023 sepsis protection finding: A 2023 study found mollugin, one of Manjistha's naphthohydroquinone compounds, prevented cecal ligation and punctureA standard laboratory method used in animal studies to simulate sepsis (a life-threatening infection response) for research purposes. (CLP)-induced sepsis in mice by inhibiting TAK1-NF-kB/MAPK inflammatory signalling while activating the Keap1-Nrf2 antioxidant pathway in macrophages. This is a genuinely recent (2023) and mechanistically specific finding, but it remains a single mouse study of an isolated compound in a septic-shock model — a considerable distance from any human clinical application, and it should not be interpreted as evidence that oral Manjistha supplementation protects against sepsis or serious infection in people.
⚖️ Manjistha Evidence — Laboratory Interest vs Human Confirmation
Documented (In Vitro / Animal)
Tyrosinase inhibition (purpurin) ✓
Anti-acne bacterial suppression ✓
Antiulcer activity (rat models) ✓
Sepsis protection (2023 mouse model) ✓
Antiviral activity (HBsAg, cell culture) ✓
Human Data
1 pilot RCTShort for randomized controlled trial — a type of study where participants are randomly assigned to receive either the treatment being tested or a comparison (often a placebo), which is generally considered a strong form of scientific evidence. — gut microbiota only ⚠
No skin-outcome human trial ✗
No acne clinical trial ✗
No pigmentation/complexion trial ✗
No dedicated safety trial ✗
Despite Manjistha\'s dominant classical and commercial reputation as a skin herb specifically, no human trial has measured a skin outcome.
What is NOT established: Manjistha's primary classical and commercial reputation is for skin conditions — acne, pigmentation, complexion, wound healing. Remarkably, given this reputation, no published human clinical trial has measured any skin-specific outcome (acne severity, pigmentation, wound healing rate, or skin barrier function) for oral or topical Manjistha. A related clinical trial registration (NCT03477825) did examine Rubia cordifolia and TriphalaThe most widely used Ayurvedic compound formula — a combination of three fruits: Haritaki, Bibhitaki, and Amalaki in equal proportions. for erythema, wrinkles, and transepidermal water lossA measurement of how much water evaporates through the skin; used as an indicator of skin barrier health., but the completed and published output from this trial protocol was the gut microbiota study discussed below — skin-specific biophysical outcome results from this registration were not identified as a completed, published human dataset at the time of writing.
💉 PharmacokineticsThe study of how a substance moves through your body over time — how it's absorbed, distributed, broken down, and eventually removed. & Deep Pharmacology
No dedicated human pharmacokinetic study for purpurin, munjistin, or mollugin has been published. The following reflects what is known from cell and animal-level research.
💊 Manjistha Pharmacokinetics — Data Availability
Human PK data
None published
Critical gap
Cell culture uptake data
Present (Hep3B model)
Antiviral mechanism study
Anthraquinone metabolismThe chemical processes in the body that convert food into energy and build or break down substances needed for life. (genus-level)
Studied in R. tinctorum
Hepatic conjugation, urinary excretion
Topical/skin permeation
Ex vivo nanoparticle study only
2022 formulation research
Anthraquinone glycosideA plant compound made of a sugar molecule attached to another active compound — the sugar part often affects how the compound is absorbed or activated in the body. metabolism has been studied in the related species Rubia tinctorum, where compounds are hydrolysed to aglycones (including lucidin, discussed under Safety) and excreted in urine. Whether Rubia cordifolia\'s distinct anthraquinone profile (purpurin/munjistin-dominant rather than lucidin-dominant) follows an identical metabolic pathway has not been directly confirmed.
Topical delivery research: A 2022 pharmaceutical formulation study developed zincAn essential trace mineral important for immune function, wound healing, and taste and smell. oxide nanoparticles loaded with Rubia cordifolia extract, demonstrating improved ex vivo skin permeation (63.26%) and enhanced antimicrobial and antioxidant activity compared to a conventional suspension. This reflects active pharmaceutical interest in improving Manjistha's topical delivery, but remains a formulation and ex vivo permeation study, not a human clinical skin outcome trial.
BiomarkerA measurable substance or characteristic in the body (like a blood marker) used to track whether something — a disease, treatment, or herb — is having an effect. Effects
Biomarker
Effect
BIOMARKER EFFECTS - HUMAN DATA LIMITED TO ONE GUT MICROBIOTA STUDYSources: Peterson CT et al. (2020) J Altern Complement Med; lab/animalstudies as notedHUMAN GUT MICROBIOTA TRIAL (PETERSON 2020 - ONLY HUMAN DATA):Biomarker
Direction | Magnitude | Study Type----------|-----------|-----------|----------FirmicutesA large group (phylum) of gut bacteria; its balance relative to other bacterial groups is often studied in relation to metabolic health.:BacteroidetesA large group (phylum) of gut bacteria commonly studied alongside Firmicutes as a marker of gut microbiome balance. | Trend decrease | Not robust | DB-RCT n=9Akkermansia muciniphila | Trend increase | Not robust | DB-RCT n=9Rikenellaceae abundance | Decreased | Both herb groups | DB-RCT n=9Overall response pattern | Individualised | No uniform signal | DB-RCTSKIN-RELATED ACTIVITY (IN VITRO ONLY - NO HUMAN SKIN DATA):Biomarker | Direction | Study Type----------|-----------|----------Tyrosinase enzyme activity | Inhibited | In vitro (purpurin)Neutrophil ROS (C. acnes) | Suppressed | In vitro
2003 studyANIMAL MODEL FINDINGS (NOT HUMAN DATA):Biomarker
Direction | Study Type----------|-----------|----------Sepsis inflammatory markers | Reduced | Mouse
in vitroIMPORTANT NOTE
The single available human trial did NOT measure skin
📊 Clinical EvidenceData collected from studies involving actual human participants, as opposed to lab or animal studies — generally considered more directly relevant to how something affects people.
31 healthy subjects randomised; 9 completers in Manjistha arm, 9 in Triphala arm, 11 in placebo arm
4 weeks
This is the only published human clinical trial for Manjistha identified in the current literature. Gut microbiota composition (16S rRNA fecal profiling) showed highly personalised, individual-specific responses with no taxa uniformly altered across all Manjistha-supplemented participants. A trend toward decreased Firmicutes-to-Bacteroidetes ratio and increased Akkermansia muciniphila was noted, along with reduced Rikenellaceae abundance in both herb groups compared to placebo, but the study's own stated conclusion emphasises the lack of a clear, consistent response signature. This trial measured gut microbiota only — it did not assess skin, acne, pigmentation, or any dermatological outcome, despite these being Manjistha's primary traditional and commercial use case. Limitation: very small per-arm sample size (n=9 completers); pilot study design; healthy volunteers only, not a target patient population; outcome measure (gut microbiota) does not correspond to Manjistha's primary traditional indication.
★★★ RCT
Inhibition of Propionibacterium acnes-induced mediators of inflammation by Indian herbs. (2003)
In vitro
N/A
Rubia cordifolia extract, among other tested Indian herbs, suppressed reactive oxygen species generated by neutrophils in response to acne-causing bacteria. Limitation: in vitro laboratory finding only; no human acne trial has been conducted to confirm clinical relevance.
★ In Vitro
Mollugin prevents CLP-induced sepsis in mice by inhibiting TAK1-NF-kB/MAPKs pathways and activating Keap1-Nrf2 pathway in macrophages. (2023)
Animal study
Not fully specified in available abstract
Mollugin protected mice against CLP-induced sepsis via inhibition of TAK1-NF-kB/MAPK inflammatory signalling and activation of the Keap1-Nrf2 antioxidant pathway in macrophages. A genuinely recent (2023) and mechanistically specific finding. Limitation: animal sepsis model using an isolated compound, not whole-herb Manjistha; no human data; sepsis is a life-threatening condition requiring established emergency medical treatment, and this finding should not be interpreted as suggesting Manjistha supplementation offers any protection against sepsis in humans.
★ Animal
Rubia cordifolia and Triphala in Erythema and Wrinkles and Transepidermal Water Loss. ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03477825
Same cohort as Peterson et al. 2020 (31 subjects)
4 weeks
This trial registration explicitly aimed to assess skin biophysical properties (erythema, wrinkles, TEWL) in addition to gut microbiome effects — directly relevant to Manjistha's traditional skin indication. The published output identified from this registration (Peterson et al., 2020) reports gut microbiota findings; a separate, completed publication reporting the skin biophysical outcome measures from this specific registered protocol was not identified in the literature reviewed for this profile as of the current search. Limitation: skin-outcome results from this specific trial registration require further verification of publication status.
★★★ RCT
Furomollugin and mollugin reduce hepatitis B surface antigen release. (Referenced in comprehensive review, IJFMR 2024)
In vitro cell line
N/A
Both compounds significantly reduced hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) release from Hep3B cells without affecting other measured cell parameters, suggesting a targeted antiviral mechanism. Limitation: in vitro human cell line finding, not a human clinical trial in hepatitis B patients; no human antiviral efficacyThe maximum effect a substance can produce, regardless of dose — a substance can be very potent but have limited efficacy. or safety data exists for Manjistha.
★ In Vitro
💊 Recommended Dosage
Therapeutic Range
1000 – 4000
Traditional Dose
Classical dose for Manjistha Churna (root powder):• 3-6 g/day, traditionally taken with honey, milk, or warm water, divided into 1-2 doses• Lower doses (around 1-2 g) sometimes used for general Varnya (complexion) supportDose used in the only published human clinical trial:• 2,000 mg (2 g) per day of whole-herb dietary supplement, for 4 weeks (Peterson et al., 2020)Topical use (Kumkumadi Taila and similar formulations):• Manjistha is a minor component by weight within a multi-herb medicated oil, applied externally to the face; internal dosing figures do not apply to this topical use caseIMPORTANT: No human dose-ranging or dose-optimisation study has been conducted. The 2,000 mg/day figure reflects the dose selected for one small pilot trial, not a clinically validated therapeutic dose.
Best Time
With meals or after food — classical texts and general Ayurvedic pharmacognosy sources describe Manjistha as reasonably well tolerated with food, which may also help offset its Ushna (hot) virya and Guru (heavy) guna in sensitive individuals. For topical/skin use (as in Kumkumadi Taila), application is typically to clean, dry skin, often at night as part of a facial oil routine.
Available Forms
Manjistha Churna (dried root powder — available from Ayurvedic pharmacies; Himalaya, Banyan Botanicals, Organic India, and regional manufacturers; potency not typically standardised to a specific anthraquinone percentage); Manjistha capsules and tablets (various supplement brands; check for extract standardisation where claimed); Kumkumadi Taila (classical topical facial oil containing Manjistha as one of multiple ingredients — one of the most widely available Ayurvedic skincare products internationally; Kama AyurvedaA traditional system of medicine from India, thousands of years old, that focuses on balance between mind, body, and diet — often using herbs, food, and lifestyle changes rather than isolated drugs., Forest Essentials, and numerous other brands); Manjistha-containing cosmeceutical serums and creams (a rapidly growing commercial category, reflecting the herb's skin-focused reputation, though — as this profile documents — largely without human clinical trial support for the specific finished products); root extract/tinctureA liquid herbal extract made by soaking plant material in alcohol (or sometimes vinegar or glycerin) to draw out its active compounds. (less common commercially)
💡
No human pharmacokinetic study exists to guide bioavailabilityHow much of a substance actually gets absorbed into your bloodstream and can have an effect on your body — not everything you swallow ends up being used. optimisation for oral Manjistha; general Ayurvedic practice of taking bitter-astringent herbs with a small amount of honey or warm water is traditional but not specifically validated for this herb2. For topical use, 2022 nanoparticle-delivery formulation research found significantly enhanced skin permeation compared to conventional extract suspensions, suggesting standard powder or basic extract preparations may have limited skin penetration compared to specially formulated products — though this remains an ex vivo laboratory finding, not a human trial result3. Manjistha's anthraquinone pigments are the most studied bioactive fraction; products or preparations that do not specify anthraquinone (purpurin/munjistin) content leave batch-to-batch potency essentially unverifiable4. Because the only human trial data available used a whole-herb 2,000 mg/day dose rather than a standardised extract, there is currently no human evidence base to compare potency or dosing between different commercial extract concentrations
💫 SynergyWhen two or more substances combined produce a stronger or different effect than you'd expect from simply adding up their individual effects. — Works Well With
🌿 Kumkuma (Crocus sativus L. — saffron) — combined in the classical Kumkumadi Taila formulation for skin radiance and complexion🌿 the most commercially significant Manjistha-containing product globally | Chandana (Santalum album L. — sandalwood) — classical skin-cooling pairing🌿 combined with Manjistha in multiple topical formulations for Pitta-type skin conditions | Haridra (Curcuma longa L. — turmeric) — complementary anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial skin herb🌿 frequently combined in topical and internal formulations for inflammatory skin conditions | Triphala (Amalaki + Bibhitaki + Haritaki) — co-tested alongside Manjistha in the only available human clinical trial (Peterson et al.🌿 2020)🌿 reflecting a common practical pairing in Ayurvedic gut and skin health protocols
⚠️ Safety Profile
Side Effects
REPORTED IN AVAILABLE LITERATURE: • The one published human trial (Peterson et al., 2020) was conducted in healthy volunteers over 4 weeks at 2,000 mg/day; the publication's focus was gut microbiota composition rather than a dedicated adverse eventAny unwanted or harmful effect that occurs during treatment with a drug or supplement, whether or not it is proven to be caused by it. analysis, so a systematic human safety profile from this trial is limited• General Ayurvedic pharmacognosy literature describes Manjistha as generally well tolerated at traditional doses, with mild gastrointestinal upset possible at higher doses due to its Guru (heavy) and Ushna (hot) qualities• Manjistha, like other anthraquinone-containing plants, may impart a reddish tinge to urine — a benign and expected colour change rather than a safety concern, but worth knowing so it is not mistaken for blood in the urineCRITICAL SAFETY CONSIDERATION — SHARED ANTHRAQUINONE CHEMISTRY WITH RUBIA TINCTORUM: Manjistha (Rubia cordifolia) belongs to the same botanical genus as Rubia tinctorum (European Madder, Dyer's Madder), a related species with an independently documented and serious safety concern. Rubia tinctorum contains lucidin, an anthraquinone compound confirmed mutagenic in bacterial and mammalian cell test systems, and a long-term rat feeding study (780 days) found evidence of carcinogenicity, with non-neoplastic and neoplastic lesions in the liver and kidneys, and confirmed DNA adduct formation. Because of this evidence, the use of herbal medicines prepared from Rubia tinctorum root is no longer permitted in Germany.Rubia cordifolia's primary anthraquinone pigments (purpurin and munjistin) are chemically distinct from Rubia tinctorum's lucidin-dominant profile, and a direct, dedicated genotoxicity or carcinogenicity study of Rubia cordifolia specifically was not identified in the literature reviewed for this profile. This is an important distinction, and it means the Rubia tinctorum findings cannot simply be assumed to apply identically to Manjistha. However, both species belong to the same anthraquinone-glycoside-producing genus, and the general toxicological principle established for Rubia tinctorum — that certain anthraquinone derivatives in this plant family can be genotoxic with long-term exposure — is a legitimate reason for caution regarding extended, high-dose internal use of any Rubia species, including Manjistha, pending species-specific safety data.
Contraindications
Pregnancy — no human safety data exists for Manjistha in pregnancy; given the documented genotoxicity concern for the related species Rubia tinctorum, precautionary avoidance is the responsible recommendation• Extended, high-dose, or long-term continuous internal use — pending Rubia cordifolia-specific genotoxicity and carcinogenicity data, indefinite daily high-dose use is not advisable; periodic use with breaks, consistent with classical Ayurvedic Rasayana-course practice rather than indefinite daily supplementation, is the more conservative approach• Known kidney stone history — Rubia tinctorum (madder root) has a traditional use for kidney stones but also documented renal lesions in long-term animal studies; caution advised in individuals with existing kidney conditions• Concurrent liver disease — given documented hepatic findings in long-term Rubia tinctorum animal studies, individuals with existing liver conditions should exercise caution and seek practitioner guidance before extended internal use• Children — insufficient safety data; use only under qualified paediatric Ayurvedic practitioner guidance
Max Safe Dose
No maximum safe dose has been established through any dedicated human safety study. The only human trial used 2,000 mg/day for 4 weeks in healthy volunteers without reporting significant adverse events, but this was not a dedicated safety or toxicologyThe scientific study of how substances can cause harm to living organisms, including at what doses that harm becomes likely. trial. Given the documented long-term genotoxicity and carcinogenicity findings for the related species Rubia tinctorum, indefinite continuous high-dose internal use of Manjistha is not advisable pending Rubia cordifolia-specific long-term safety data. Traditional, periodic, moderate-dose use (3-6 g/day powder, in defined courses rather than continuous indefinite daily use) is the more conservative approach consistent with classical Ayurvedic practice.
🧪 Expert Note
Manjistha is one of the more revealing herbs in this database because of a genuine mismatch between reputation and evidence category. It is overwhelmingly marketed, prescribed, and purchased for one thing — skin health — and yet the single completed human clinical trial available did not measure any skin outcome at all. It measured gut bacteria, in a small pilot study, and found no consistent pattern of effect even on that unrelated measure. This does not mean Manjistha does nothing for skin; the in vitro tyrosinase-inhibition and anti-acne-bacterial data are genuinely interesting and mechanistically plausible. But it does mean that specific commercial claims about acne clearing, pigmentation fading, or complexion brightening from oral or topical Manjistha are currently supported by laboratory plausibility rather than human clinical confirmation.
The second thing worth being direct about is the anthraquinone safety question. Rubia cordifolia belongs to the same genus as Rubia tinctorum, a plant with a genuinely serious, well-documented toxicology history — mutagenic in multiple bacterial and mammalian test systems, confirmed carcinogenic in a 780-day rat feeding study, and restricted from herbal medicine use in Germany as a direct consequence. Rubia cordifolia's dominant pigments (purpurin, munjistin) differ chemically from Rubia tinctorum's lucidin, and no dedicated Rubia cordifolia genotoxicity study confirming or ruling out a comparable risk was identified for this profile. That absence of species-specific data cuts both ways — it is not proof of danger, but it is also not proof of safety, and the honest position is that this question has not yet been directly answered for the specific species used in Ayurvedic medicine.
Given both gaps — the missing skin trial and the unresolved genus-level safety question — Manjistha would benefit enormously from two specific pieces of research: a properly designed human trial measuring an actual skin outcome (acne severity, pigmentation, or validated skin barrier measures), and a dedicated Rubia cordifolia genotoxicity assessment analogous to what has already been done for Rubia tinctorum. Until then, traditional, periodic, moderate-dose use — rather than continuous high-dose supplementation marketed on unconfirmed skin claims — is the more defensible approach.
📜 Kumkumadi Taila — the most globally recognised classical formulation containing Manjistha📜 combined with saffron📜 sandalwood📜 and other herbs for topical skin radiance and complexion use; one of the most commercially available Ayurvedic skincare products worldwide | Manjishthadi Kwatha — classical decoction for skin and blood-related conditions | Manjishthadi Ghrita — medicated ghee preparation combining Manjistha with other herbs for skin and wound-healing use | Various classical Kushthaghna (skin-disorder) compound formulations listed in Charaka Samhita and Bhavaprakasha Nighantu📜 in which Manjistha appears as a component alongside other Raktashodhaka herbs
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3. Mollugin prevents CLP-induced sepsis in mice by inhibiting TAK1-NF-kB/MAPKs pathways and activating Keap1-Nrf2 pathway in macrophages. (2023). PubMed.
4. Inhibition of Propionibacterium acnes-induced mediators of inflammation by Indian herbs. (2003). PubMed.
5. Polyherbal Antiacne Gel: In Vitro Antibacterial Activity and Efficacy Evaluation Against Cutibacterium acnes. (2024). PubMed.
What are the side effects of Manjistha (Rubia cordifolia)?
REPORTED IN AVAILABLE LITERATURE:
The one published human trial (Peterson et al., 2020) was conducted in healthy volunteers over 4 weeks at 2,000 mg/day
The publication's focus was gut microbiota composition rather than a dedicated adverse event analysis, so a systematic human safety profile from this trial is limited
General Ayurvedic pharmacognosy literature describes Manjistha as generally well tolerated at traditional doses, with mild gastrointestinal upset possible at higher doses due to its Guru (heavy) and Ushna (hot) qualities
Manjistha, like other anthraquinone-containing plants, may impart a reddish tinge to urine — a benign and expected colour change rather than a safety concern, but worth knowing so it is not mistaken for blood in the urineCRITICAL SAFETY CONSIDERATION — SHARED ANTHRAQUINONE CHEMISTRY WITH RUBIA TINCTORUM:Manjistha (Rubia cordifolia) belongs to the same botanical genus as Rubia tinctorum (European Madder, Dyer's Madder), a related species with an independently documented and serious safety concern. Rubia tinctorum contains lucidin, an anthraquinone compound confirmed mutagenic in bacterial and mammalian cell test systems, and a long-term rat feeding study (780 days) found evidence of carcinogenicity, with non-neoplastic and neoplastic lesions in the liver and kidneys, and confirmed DNA adduct formation. Because of this evidence, the use of herbal medicines prepared from Rubia tinctorum root is no longer permitted in Germany.Rubia cordifolia's primary anthraquinone pigments (purpurin and munjistin) are chemically distinct from Rubia tinctorum's lucidin-dominant profile, and a direct, dedicated genotoxicity or carcinogenicity study of Rubia cordifolia specifically was not identified in the literature reviewed for this profile. This is an important distinction, and it means the Rubia tinctorum findings cannot simply be assumed to apply identically to Manjistha. However, both species belong to the same anthraquinone-glycoside-producing genus, and the general toxicological principle established for Rubia tinctorum — that certain anthraquinone derivatives in this plant family can be genotoxic with long-term exposure — is a legitimate reason for caution regarding extended, high-dose internal use of any Rubia species, including Manjistha, pending species-specific safety data
What is the recommended dosage of Manjistha (Rubia cordifolia)?
Typical daily range: 1000 – 4000
Traditional preparation: Classical dose for Manjistha Churna (root powder):• 3-6 g/day, traditionally taken with honey, milk, or warm water, divided into 1-2 doses• Lower doses (around 1-2 g) sometimes used for general Varnya (complexion) supportDose used in the only published human clinical trial:• 2,000 mg (2 g) per day of whole-herb dietary supplement, for 4 weeks (Peterson et al., 2020)Topical use (Kumkumadi Taila and similar formulations):• Manjistha is a minor component by weight within a multi-herb medicated oil, applied externally to the face; internal dosing figures do not apply to this topical use caseIMPORTANT: No human dose-ranging or dose-optimisation study has been conducted. The 2,000 mg/day figure reflects the dose selected for one small pilot trial, not a clinically validated therapeutic dose.
Best time to take: With meals or after food — classical texts and general Ayurvedic pharmacognosy sources describe Manjistha as reasonably well tolerated with food, which may also help offset its Ushna (hot) virya and Guru (heavy) guna in sensitive individuals. For topical/skin use (as in Kumkumadi Taila), application is typically to clean, dry skin, often at night as part of a facial oil routine.
Maximum documented safe dose: No maximum safe dose has been established through any dedicated human safety study. The only human trial used 2,000 mg/day for 4 weeks in healthy volunteers without reporting significant adverse events, but this was not a dedicated safety or toxicology trial. Given the documented long-term genotoxicity and carcinogenicity findings for the related species Rubia tinctorum, indefinite continuous high-dose internal use of Manjistha is not advisable pending Rubia cordifolia-specific long-term safety data. Traditional, periodic, moderate-dose use (3-6 g/day powder, in defined courses rather than continuous indefinite daily use) is the more conservative approach consistent with classical Ayurvedic practice.
Who should avoid Manjistha (Rubia cordifolia)?
Pregnancy — no human safety data exists for Manjistha in pregnancy
Given the documented genotoxicity concern for the related species Rubia tinctorum, precautionary avoidance is the responsible recommendation
Extended, high-dose, or long-term continuous internal use — pending Rubia cordifolia-specific genotoxicity and carcinogenicity data, indefinite daily high-dose use is not advisable
Periodic use with breaks, consistent with classical Ayurvedic Rasayana-course practice rather than indefinite daily supplementation, is the more conservative approach
Known kidney stone history — Rubia tinctorum (madder root) has a traditional use for kidney stones but also documented renal lesions in long-term animal studies
Caution advised in individuals with existing kidney conditions
Concurrent liver disease — given documented hepatic findings in long-term Rubia tinctorum animal studies, individuals with existing liver conditions should exercise caution and seek practitioner guidance before extended internal use
Children — insufficient safety data
Use only under qualified paediatric Ayurvedic practitioner guidance
In what forms is Manjistha (Rubia cordifolia) available?
Manjistha Churna (dried root powder — available from Ayurvedic pharmacies
Himalaya, Banyan Botanicals, Organic India, and regional manufacturers
Potency not typically standardised to a specific anthraquinone percentage)
Manjistha capsules and tablets (various supplement brands
Check for extract standardisation where claimed)
Kumkumadi Taila (classical topical facial oil containing Manjistha as one of multiple ingredients — one of the most widely available Ayurvedic skincare products internationally
Kama Ayurveda, Forest Essentials, and numerous other brands)
Manjistha-containing cosmeceutical serums and creams (a rapidly growing commercial category, reflecting the herb's skin-focused reputation, though — as this profile documents — largely without human clinical trial support for the specific finished products)
Root extract/tincture (less common commercially)
⚠️ Educational Information Only
This information is compiled from classical Ayurvedic literature and published research for educational and reference purposes. It is not medical advice, has not been evaluated by any drug regulatory authority, and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Always consult a qualified practitioner before using any herb, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medication, or managing a health condition.