Lakshmana: Benefits, Uses & Dosage

Sanskrit: लक्ष्मणा Botanical: Ipomoea sepiaria Koen.

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Ayurvedic Properties

Taste (Rasa)
Sweet (Madhura)
Quality (Guna)
Heavy (Guru), Unctuous (Snigdha)
Potency (Virya)
Cold (Sheeta)
Post-digestive (Vipaka)
Sweet (Madhura)
Also Known As
English: Lakshmana
Sanskrit: लक्ष्मणा, पुत्रदा, शुभा
Hindi: लक्ष्मणा

What is Lakshmana (लक्ष्मणा)?

Lakshmana (identified as Ipomoea sepiaria) is a highly revered herb in Ayurveda for promoting fertility and conception (Garbhasthapana). The text mentions multiple possible identifications: Ipomoea sepiaria (Convolvulaceae), Atropa mandragora (Solanaceae), Smithia geminiflora (Leguminosae), and Biophytum sensitivum (Geraniaceae). The exact botanical identity remains debated. It is one of the Garbhasthapana (conception-promoting) drugs listed in classical texts. It is sweet in taste and nourishing in nature.

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 3

Therapeutic Actions (Karma)

  • Garbhasthapana (promotes conception)
  • Pushtivardhana (nourishing)
  • Balya (strengthening)

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 3

How to Use Lakshmana by Condition

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

Classical Text References (1 sources)

References in Sushruta Samhita

One should wear (as amulets) Lakshmana, Sahadeva, and Brihati (Solanum indicum).

— Sushruta Samhita, Uttara Tantra, Chapter 30: Shakunipratishedha

Deranged by the vitiated blood it assumes the colour of the blood of a hare or that of the fluid washings of Lakshmana (lac), and emits a fetid smell, and is licked by ants.

— Sushruta Samhita, Sharira Sthana, Chapter 2: Sukra-Sonita Suddhih Sariram - Purification of Semen and Ovum

Deranged by the vitiated blood it assumes the colour of the blood of a hare or that of the fluid washings of Lakshmana (lac), and emits a fetid smell, and is licked by ants.

— Sushruta Samhita, Sukra-Sonita Suddhih Sariram - Purification of Semen and Ovum

Source: Sushruta Samhita, Uttara Tantra, Chapter 30: Shakunipratishedha; Sharira Sthana, Chapter 2: Sukra-Sonita Suddhih Sariram - Purification of Semen and Ovum; Sukra-Sonita Suddhih Sariram - Purification of Semen and Ovum

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.