Jatamansi

(Spikenard)
Sanskrit: जटामांसी • Botanical: Nardostachys jatamansi DC.

Jatamansi (Spikenard) is the rhizome of Nardostachys jatamansi, found in the Himalayan alpine regions at 3000-5000 meters altitude. The rhizomes are covered with fibrous root remnants giving a hairy (jata) appearance. It is one of the most valued Medhya (brain tonic) drugs in Ayurveda with notable sedative and anxiolytic properties. The drug is aromatic with a distinctive musky smell. It is used for insomnia, anxiety, epilepsy, memory disorders, and as a hair tonic. It gives a dark color on boiling. It pacifies all three doshas and is used in conditions of both mental and physical debility.

Ayurvedic Properties

Taste (Rasa)
Bitter (Tikta), Astringent (Kashaya), Sweet (Madhura)
Quality (Guna)
Light (Laghu), Unctuous (Snigdha)
Potency (Virya)
Cold (Sheeta)
Post-digestive (Vipaka)
Pungent (Katu)
Key Constituents
Jatamansone (Valeranone), Jatamanshic acid, Nardostachysin, Volatile oil (0.2-0.7%), Sesquiterpenes
Also Known As
English: Spikenard, Indian Nard, Nardus Root
Sanskrit: जटामांसी, मांसी, भूतजटा, तपस्विनी
Hindi: जटामांसी, बालछड़

What is Jatamansi (Spikenard / जटामांसी)?

Jatamansi (Spikenard) is the rhizome of Nardostachys jatamansi, found in the Himalayan alpine regions at 3000-5000 meters altitude. The rhizomes are covered with fibrous root remnants giving a hairy (jata) appearance. It is one of the most valued Medhya (brain tonic) drugs in Ayurveda with notable sedative and anxiolytic properties. The drug is aromatic with a distinctive musky smell. It is used for insomnia, anxiety, epilepsy, memory disorders, and as a hair tonic. It gives a dark color on boiling. It pacifies all three doshas and is used in conditions of both mental and physical debility.

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 2

Therapeutic Actions (Karma)

  • Medhya (improves intellect)
  • Nidrajanana (sedative/sleep-inducing)
  • Hridya (cardiotonic)
  • Keshya (promotes hair growth)
  • Varnya (improves complexion)
  • Tridoshahara (pacifies all three doshas)

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 2

Jatamansi by Condition

Explore how Jatamansi is used for specific health concerns — with dosage, preparation methods, and classical references for each.

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Jatamansi for Brain Fog & Memory

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.