Ayurveda Properties
Nagarmotha (नागरमोथा), also known as Musta in Ayurveda, is a detoxifying, cooling, and aromatic root herb known for balancing all three doshas — especially Pitta and Kapha. Revered in Charaka Samhita and Sushruta Samhita, it’s used to purify the skin, reduce inflammation, enhance digestion, and restore natural radiance.
It’s a hidden gem for glowing skin and gut balance, making it a hero ingredient in Ayurvedic skincare, detox oils, and herbal formulations.
Rasa (Taste): Tikta (Bitter), Katu (Pungent)
Guna (Qualities): Laghu (Light), Ruksha (Dry)
Virya (Potency): Sheeta (Cooling)
Vipaka (Post-digestive Effect): Katu (Pungent)
Doshic Action: Balances Pitta and Kapha doshas
Ayurvedic References:
- Charaka Samhita – mentioned under Pachaniya Dravya (digestive herbs) and Lekhaniya Dravya (fat-reducing herbs)
- Sushruta Samhita – described for Rakta Shodhana (blood purification)
- Bhavaprakasha Nighantu – classified under Musta Varga for its aromatic and cooling actions
Benefit of
Nagarmotha
:
Skin (त्वचा)
- Purifies & Detoxifies: Draws out impurities and clears blemishes.
- Controls Excess Oil: Regulates sebum production and tightens pores.
- Reduces Acne & Pigmentation: Its anti-inflammatory properties soothe irritated skin.
- Improves Complexion: Gives a natural, matte glow and refines texture.
Usage: Nagarmotha powder mixed with Multani Mitti and rose water makes a perfect detox face mask.
Hair (बाल)
- Stimulates Hair Growth: Improves scalp blood circulation and strengthens roots.
- Reduces Dandruff & Itchiness: Its cooling nature soothes scalp irritation.
- Prevents Premature Greying: Balances Pitta heat in the scalp.
- Adds Volume & Freshness: Natural cleanser for oily scalp.
Usage: Infused in herbal hair oils or added to hair masks with Amla and Bhringraj.
Body (शरीर)
- Natural Detoxifier: Eliminates Ama (toxins) and purifies blood.
- Improves Digestion: Promotes appetite and relieves bloating.
- Reduces Inflammation & Fever: Works as a natural anti-pyretic.
- Relieves Excess Body Heat: Cooling agent in summers and Pitta disorders.
Usage: Consumed as part of Ayurvedic churnas or decoctions.
Health/Wellness (स्वास्थ्य/कल्याण)
- Hormonal Balance: Supports menstrual health and relieves cramps.
- Weight Management: Included in Lekhaniya Gana (fat-reducing herbs) for its metabolism-boosting properties.
- Calms the Mind: Its subtle fragrance is grounding and relieves stress.
- Boosts Immunity: Enhances liver and digestive strength.
Usage: Can be used in herbal teas, tonics, and internal Ayurvedic formulations under expert guidance.
Traditional Ayurvedic Uses:
- Pitta Shamak (Cooling herb): Used in fevers, skin heat, and acne.
- Deepaniya Dravya (Digestive stimulant): Improves Agni (digestive fire).
- Rakta Shodhaka (Blood purifier): Clears toxins for glowing skin.
- Lekhaniya (Fat reducer): Helps manage obesity and water retention.
- Sugandhit Dravya (Natural aromatic): Used in dhoop, perfumes, and oils.
Ayurvedic Recipes:
- Skin Detox Pack: Mix Nagarmotha with Multani Mitti and Aloe vera gel.
- Cooling Body Oil: Infuse Nagarmotha in coconut oil for Pitta cooling effect.
- Digestive Tonic: Boil Nagarmotha with cumin and coriander seeds; drink warm.
- Weight Balance Mix: Blend Nagarmotha with Triphala powder for daily detox.
