Jatamansi (Nardostachys jatamansi)

Jatamansi (Nardostachys jatamansi DC.) is a perennial herb known for its aromatic rhizomes and strong medicinal properties. It belongs to the Caprifoliaceae family (formerly classified under Valerianaceae) and grows primarily in the Himalayan regions of India, Nepal, Bhutan, and China. Traditionally used in Ayurveda, Unani, and Siddha systems of medicine, Jatamansi is known for its neuroprotective, anti-inflammatory, adaptogenic, and sedative effects. It is highly regarded for its effectiveness in managing insomnia, epilepsy, various mental health conditions, and skin ailments.

Jatamansi Scientific Names

Kingdom: Plantae
Phylum: Angiosperms
Class: Eudicots
Order: Dipsacales
Family: Caprifoliaceae
Genus: Nardostachys
Species: Nardostachys jatamansi

Jatamansi Common Names

English: Spikenard
Sanskrit: Jatamansi
Hindi: Jatamansi
Tamil: Jatamamsi
Telugu: Jatamamsi
Bengali: Jatamansi
Marathi: Jatamansi
Punjabi: Balchad

Jatamansi Uses

Nervous System Support - Acts as a brain tonic, improving memory, concentration, and cognitive performance, Useful in treating insomnia, epilepsy, hysteria, and mental fatigue.

Stress and Anxiety Relief - Functions as a potent adaptogen and natural sedative, reducing stress, depression, and emotional instability.

Hair and Skin Health - Widely used in Ayurvedic formulations for hair growth and preventing premature graying, Helpful in managing skin infections, inflammation, and eczema.

Cardiovascular Protection - May lower blood pressure and stabilize heart rhythm due to its hypotensive and cardiotonic effects.

Phytochemical Constituents

Jatamansi contains a variety of active constituents responsible for its therapeutic effects:

Sesquiterpenes: Jatamansone (Spironol), Nardostachone
Essential oils: Nardol, Calarene, β-Sitosterol
Alkaloids: Actinidine
Flavonoids: Luteolin, Apigenin
Glycosides and Sterols

References

Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India (API), Part I, Vol. IV. Govt. of India, Ministry of AYUSH.

The Wealth of India: A Dictionary of Indian Raw Materials and Industrial Products – Raw Materials, Vol. 7. CSIR, New Delhi.

Panda, H. (2004). Herbs Cultivation and Medicinal Uses. Asia Pacific Business Press Inc.

Samadi, N., et al. (2014). "Neuropharmacological effects of Nardostachys jatamansi: A review." Iranian Journal of Basic Medical Sciences, 17(12), 940–949.

Singh, R., et al. (2012). "An update on pharmacological potential of Nardostachys jatamansi DC." International Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, 4(Suppl 4), 27–33.

Sharma, P.V. (1999). Dravyaguna Vijnana, Vol. II. Chaukhambha Bharati Academy, Varanasi.