Cobra's Saffron

(Cobra's Saffron)
Sanskrit: नागकेशर • Botanical: Mesua ferrea Linn.

Nagakeshara is a large evergreen tree; its stamens are used medicinally. It is described as the first drug in the Nagakeshara group. The dried flower stamens are golden-yellow and aromatic. It is one of the finest Ayurvedic drugs for bleeding disorders (Raktapitta), excessive thirst, and skin diseases. Being absorbent (Grahi), it is used in diarrhea and dysentery. The commentary mentions that Calophyllum inophyllum is sometimes confused with Nagakeshara but is a different drug called Punnaga. True Nagakeshara comes from Mesua ferrea found in Assam, Bengal, and the Western Ghats. The drug is bitter and astringent with hot potency. It pacifies Kapha and Pitta. The stamens are used internally for bleeding piles, dysentery, and bleeding disorders, and externally as a paste for skin conditions. Dose: 1-2 grams.

Ayurvedic Properties

Taste (Rasa)
Bitter (Tikta), Astringent (Kashaya)
Quality (Guna)
Light (Laghu), Dry (Ruksha)
Potency (Virya)
Hot (Ushna)
Post-digestive (Vipaka)
Pungent (Katu)
Key Constituents
Mesuol, Mesuaferrone, Mesuanic acid, Essential oil, Resinous matter
Also Known As
English: Cobra's Saffron, Iron Wood Tree, Nagkesar
Sanskrit: नागकेशर, नागपुष्प, कापरसुरभि, काञ्चननाह, नागेशर
Hindi: नागकेशर, नागचम्पा

What is Cobra's Saffron (Nagakeshara / नागकेशर)?

Nagakeshara is a large evergreen tree; its stamens are used medicinally. It is described as the first drug in the Nagakeshara group. The dried flower stamens are golden-yellow and aromatic. It is one of the finest Ayurvedic drugs for bleeding disorders (Raktapitta), excessive thirst, and skin diseases. Being absorbent (Grahi), it is used in diarrhea and dysentery. The commentary mentions that Calophyllum inophyllum is sometimes confused with Nagakeshara but is a different drug called Punnaga. True Nagakeshara comes from Mesua ferrea found in Assam, Bengal, and the Western Ghats. The drug is bitter and astringent with hot potency. It pacifies Kapha and Pitta. The stamens are used internally for bleeding piles, dysentery, and bleeding disorders, and externally as a paste for skin conditions. Dose: 1-2 grams.

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 2

Therapeutic Actions (Karma)

  • Grahi (absorbent/anti-diarrheal)
  • Hridya (cardiotonic)
  • Vishaghna (antitoxic)
  • Krimighna (anthelmintic)
  • Trishnanigrahana (quenches thirst)
  • Shwasahara (relieves dyspnoea)
  • Kasahara (antitussive)
  • Raktapittahara (controls bleeding disorders)

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 2

Cobra's Saffron by Condition

Explore how Cobra's Saffron is used for specific health concerns — with dosage, preparation methods, and classical references for each.

⟶
Cobra's Saffron for Male Sexual Health

Medical Disclaimer: The information on this page is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Ayurvedic treatments should be pursued under the guidance of a qualified practitioner (BAMS/MD Ayurveda). Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any new treatment. Content is sourced from classical Ayurvedic texts and may not reflect the latest medical research.