Overview
Musk is one of the herbs traditionally used in Ayurveda for heart disease. 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.
How Musk Helps with Heart Disease
According to Ayurvedic pharmacology, Musk has specific properties that make it valuable for addressing heart disease:
- Potency (Virya): Ushna (hot)
- Post-digestive (Vipaka): Katu (pungent)
- Taste (Rasa): Tikta (bitter), Katu (pungent)
- Qualities (Guna): Laghu (light), Tikshna (sharp), Snigdha (unctuous)
Other Herbs for Heart Disease
See all herbs for heart disease on the Heart Disease page.
▶ Classical Text References (3 sources)
- Hridroga (heart diseases)
- Unmada (insanity/psychosis)
- Apasmara (epilepsy)
- Visha (poisoning)
- Netra Roga (eye diseases)
- Jwara (fever)
- Kasa (cough)
Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 1
Then fine powder of Saffron and kasthuri (musk) is applied.
— Astanga Hridaya Sutrasthan, Ritucharya adhyaya Seasonal
Source: Astanga Hridaya Sutrasthan, Ritucharya adhyaya Seasonal
Jackfruit (Artocarpus heterophyllus), banana (Musa paradisiaca), Amalaki (Emblica officinalis), grapes, mildly sour, sweet, and cool substances, musk, sandalwood, garlands, and camphor anointing are recommended.
— Sharangadhara Samhita, Parishishtam, Chapter 84: Diet for Pregnant Women (Garbhini Pathyapathyam)
Jackfruit (Artocarpus heterophyllus), banana (Musa paradisiaca), Amalaki (Emblica officinalis), grapes, mildly sour, sweet, and cool substances, musk, sandalwood, garlands, and camphor anointing are recommended.
— Sharangadhara Samhita, Parishishtam, Chapter 73: Diet for Pregnant Women (Garbhini Pathyapathyam)
Source: Sharangadhara Samhita, Parishishtam, Chapter 84: Diet for Pregnant Women (Garbhini Pathyapathyam); Parishishtam, Chapter 73: Diet for Pregnant Women (Garbhini Pathyapathyam)
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.