Ayurvedic Properties
- Taste (Rasa)
- Bitter (Tikta), Sweet (Madhura)
- Quality (Guna)
- Light (Laghu), Unctuous (Snigdha)
- Potency (Virya)
- Cold (Sheeta)
- Post-digestive (Vipaka)
- Pungent (Katu)
- Key Constituents
- Resins, Alkaloids
- Also Known As
- English: Musk Mallow, Ambrette
Sanskrit: लताकस्तूरी, मुष्ककन्दा
Hindi: लता कस्तूरी, मुश्कदाना
What is Musk Mallow (Lata Kasturi / लता कस्तूरी)?
Lata Kasturi (Hibiscus abelmoschus, Fam. Malvaceae) is a plant-based musk substitute. Its seeds have a strong musk-like fragrance. The plant is an annual/biennial herb found across India. Seeds (Mushkadana) are the officinal part, yielding a musk-scented fixed oil. Used as a cooling, aromatic medicine for heart conditions and burning sensations. It is considered a plant equivalent of animal Kasturi. Also used in perfumery. Shloka reference: Karpuradi Varga.
Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 1
Therapeutic Actions (Karma)
- Sugandhi (aromatic/fragrant)
- Hridya (cardiotonic)
- Vrishya (aphrodisiac)
- Sheetala (cooling)
Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 1
Classical Therapeutic Uses
- Daha (burning sensation)
- Charma Roga (skin diseases)
- Hridroga (heart diseases)
Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 1
Musk Mallow by Condition
Explore how Musk Mallow is used for specific health concerns — with dosage, preparation methods, and classical references for each.
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.