Musk

(Musk)
Sanskrit: कस्तूरी • Botanical: Moschus moschiferus (animal origin)

Kasturi (Musk) is an animal-origin aromatic substance obtained from the preputial gland of the male musk deer (Moschus moschiferus, Fam. Cervidae). The deer is found in high Himalayan regions (4000-6000 feet elevation). Musk is one of the most expensive natural aromatics. It is a powerful cardiac stimulant, nervine tonic, and aphrodisiac. Used in heart diseases, epilepsy, psychosis, and as an antidote. Three types of Kasturi described: from deer, from plants, and artificial. The musk pod (Kasturi ki nafi) is found near the navel of the male deer. Rutting season yields the best quality musk. Identification tests include burning (genuine musk gives no residue), rubbing, and dissolution tests. Various animal sources of musk-like substances are also mentioned including civet cat, muskrat, and others. Chemical analysis reveals muscone as the primary odorant. Book reference: Karpuradi Varga, shloka 5-8.

Ayurvedic Properties

Taste (Rasa)
Bitter (Tikta), Pungent (Katu)
Quality (Guna)
Light (Laghu), Sharp (Tikshna), Unctuous (Snigdha)
Potency (Virya)
Hot (Ushna)
Post-digestive (Vipaka)
Pungent (Katu)
Key Constituents
Musk xylene C₈(CH₃)₂(C₄H₉)(NO₂)₃, Musk ketone C₈(CH₃)₂(C₄H₉)(COCH₃)(NO₂)₂, Musk ambrette, Muscone (the primary odorous principle), Aldehydes, Cyano musk, Azimido musk
Also Known As
English: Musk
Sanskrit: कस्तूरी, मृगनाभि, मृगमद, वेधमुख्या
Hindi: कस्तूरी, मुश्क

What is Musk (Kasturi / कस्तूरी)?

Kasturi (Musk) is an animal-origin aromatic substance obtained from the preputial gland of the male musk deer (Moschus moschiferus, Fam. Cervidae). The deer is found in high Himalayan regions (4000-6000 feet elevation). Musk is one of the most expensive natural aromatics. It is a powerful cardiac stimulant, nervine tonic, and aphrodisiac. Used in heart diseases, epilepsy, psychosis, and as an antidote. Three types of Kasturi described: from deer, from plants, and artificial. The musk pod (Kasturi ki nafi) is found near the navel of the male deer. Rutting season yields the best quality musk. Identification tests include burning (genuine musk gives no residue), rubbing, and dissolution tests. Various animal sources of musk-like substances are also mentioned including civet cat, muskrat, and others. Chemical analysis reveals muscone as the primary odorant. Book reference: Karpuradi Varga, shloka 5-8.

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 1

Therapeutic Actions (Karma)

  • Hridya (cardiotonic)
  • Vrishya (aphrodisiac)
  • Chakshushya (beneficial for eyes)
  • Vishahara (anti-toxic)
  • Sugandhi (aromatic/fragrant)
  • Deepana (kindles digestive fire)
  • Balya (strengthening)
  • Vatahara (pacifies Vata)

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 1

Classical Therapeutic Uses

  • Hridroga (heart diseases)
  • Unmada (insanity/psychosis)
  • Apasmara (epilepsy)
  • Visha (poisoning)
  • Netra Roga (eye diseases)
  • Jwara (fever)
  • Kasa (cough)

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 1

Musk by Condition

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

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Musk for Anxiety & Stress
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Musk for Eye Health
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Musk for Heart Health
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Musk for Immunity & Disease Prevention
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Musk for Male Sexual Health
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Musk for Respiratory 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.