# Rudraksha

> Rudraksha (Elaeocarpus ganitrus) is a plant used in Ayurveda. Bhasma form may enhance mineral bioavailability through nano-particulate formation during incineration process. Polyphenolic fraction shows improved absorption with lipid co-administration. Bhasma should be stored in glass or food-grade HDPE containers, protected from moisture.

## Key facts

- **Botanical name:** Elaeocarpus ganitrus

## Names and identification

| Language | Name |
|----------|------|
| English | Rudraksha |

## Ayurvedic pharmacology (Dravyaguna)

| Property | Value | Description |
|----------|-------|-------------|
| **Rasa** (Taste) | Madhura | Primary taste |
| **Guna** (Quality) | Guru | Physical quality |
| **Virya** (Potency) | Ushna | Heating/Cooling effect |
| **Vipaka** (Post-digestive) | Madhura | Post-digestive effect |

## Dosage forms and preparation

**Dosage Forms:** Churna (powder), Bhasma (calcined preparation), Vati (tablet), Capsule, Kwatha (decoction), Mala beads (external/spiritual use)

**Standard Dosage:** 500 mg - 2 g bead powder per day; 250-500 mg bhasma with honey or ghee twice daily

**Bioavailability:** Low to moderate bioavailability for alkaloid constituents; rudrakine and related [alkaloids](/glossary/compounds-1-a/#alkaloids) show 15-25% oral bioavailability. Bhasma form may enhance mineral bioavailability through nano-particulate formation during incineration process. Polyphenolic fraction shows improved absorption with lipid co-administration.

**Optimal Timing:** Morning on empty stomach with water or honey for cardiovascular benefits; evening dose for [anxiolytic](/reference/anxiolytic/) effects

**Standardized Extract:** Aqueous extract of seed pulp (5:1), standardized to NLT 1.0% total alkaloids (as rudrakine equivalents); bhasma standardized for particle size (<100 nm by DLS) and elemental composition

**Shelf Life:** 36 months for churna; indefinite shelf life for properly prepared bhasma; 24 months for capsules

**Storage:** Store in airtight containers below 25 deg C. Bhasma should be stored in glass or food-grade HDPE containers, protected from moisture. RH <45% for bhasma.

**Marker Compounds:** Rudrakine, Elaeocarpine, Isoelaeocarpine, Elaeocarpidine, [Quercetin](/reference/quercetinquercetin/), Gallic acid

### Extraction Methods

- Aqueous decoction of seed pulp
- Hydroalcoholic extraction (60% ethanol)
- Acid-base extraction for alkaloid isolation
- Traditional bhasma preparation (incineration with herbal juices)

### Synergistic Combinations

- [Ashwagandha](/herb/ashwagandha/) (anxiolytic and [cardioprotective](/reference/cardioprotective/) synergy)
- [Brahmi](/herb/brahmi/) (cognitive-calming combination)
- [Jatamansi](/herb/jatamansi/) (anti-anxiety formulations)
- [Arjuna](/herb/arjuna/) (cardiovascular support)

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Canonical version of this page: https://nighantu.ageayurveda.com/herb/rudraksha/

## Sources

- Amidha Ayurveda Herb Database (700+ herbs, CC-BY-4.0)
- Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India

Published by Age Ayurveda in the Nighantu. Educational reference only, not medical advice.
Incorporates material from the Amidha Ayurveda Herb Database under CC BY 4.0.