Rubia cordifolia
Synopsis of rubia cordifolia
Rubia cordifolia, commonly known as Indian madder, Manjistha, or Madder root, is a perennial climbing herb native to the Himalayas and various parts of Asia, Africa, and Europe. Belonging to the Rubiaceae family, this plant is well known for its bright red roots, which have been used both as a natural dye and a powerful herbal remedy.
In herbal medicine, Rubia cordifolia is highly valued for its blood-purifying, anti-inflammatory, and lymphatic-cleansing properties. It is considered a key herb in Ayurveda for supporting the circulatory and lymphatic systems, often prescribed to detoxify the blood, promote healthy skin, and treat disorders related to stagnant or impure blood. The active compounds in its root include glycosides, anthraquinones (notably purpurin, munjistin), and triterpenoids, which are believed to account for its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, hepatoprotective, and anti-tumor effects.
Manjistha is used for a variety of health applications: clearing acne and other inflammatory skin conditions, managing menstrual irregularities, reducing inflammation in joints, and aiding liver detoxification. It is often taken as a powder, decoction, or capsule, and frequently combined with other herbs such as neem or turmeric for synergistic effects.
Historical Usage:
The use of Rubia cordifolia dates back thousands of years, particularly within Ayurvedic and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) systems. In Ayurveda, it is one of the chief “rakta shodhana” (blood purifiers) and is categorized under "varna prasadaka" herbs—agents that enhance complexion and skin tone. Ancient Ayurvedic texts like the Charaka Samhita and Sushruta Samhita describe its application in treating chronic skin diseases, ulcers, jaundice, and gynecological imbalances. It was also used topically to heal wounds and bruises, given its capacity to dissolve stagnant blood and improve microcirculation.
In ancient India, it also served a dual purpose: medicinal herb and dye source. Its roots produced a red pigment that was used to color textiles and also as a cosmetic. The symbolic red associated with auspiciousness and purity in Indian culture further elevated the herb’s cultural importance.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, Rubia cordifolia is referred to as Qiancao and is primarily used to cool the blood, stop bleeding, and invigorate blood circulation. It was used to treat blood stasis, nosebleeds, uterine bleeding, and trauma-related bruises and swelling.
Throughout history, madder root was also used in medieval European herbalism as both a dye plant and mild medicinal agent, though its medicinal prominence was far greater in the East.
Today, Rubia cordifolia is still extensively used in holistic and integrative medicine, especially in detoxification regimens, skin therapies, and hormone-balancing protocols. Its traditional applications are supported by growing pharmacological research exploring its antioxidant, immunomodulatory, and anti-cancer potential.
Rubia cordifolia is used for these health conditions
Anemia (Traditional)
Arthritis (Traditional)
Blood Clots (prevention of) (Traditional)
Blood Poisoning (Traditional)
Boils (Traditional)
Bruises (healing) (Traditional)
Cancer (natural therapy for) (Traditional)
Cancer (prevention) (Traditional)
Cancer Treatment (reducing side effects) (Traditional)
Cuts (Traditional)
Diabetes (Traditional)
Digestion (poor) (Traditional)
Edema (Traditional)
Eye Infections (Traditional)
Fatigue (Traditional)
Fever (Traditional)
Gastritis (Traditional)
Glands (swollen lymph) (Traditional)
Gout (Traditional)
Headache (general) (Traditional)
Hemorrhoids (Traditional)
Hepatitis (Traditional)
Infection (Traditional)
Infection (bacterial) (Traditional)
Inflammation (Scientific)
Inflammatory Bowel Disorders (Traditional)
Jaundice (adults) (Traditional)
Leucorrhea (Traditional)
Liver Detoxification (Traditional)
Lymph Nodes or Glands (swollen) (Traditional)
Malaria (Traditional)
Menopause (Traditional)
Menstrual Irregularity (Traditional)
Nephritis (Traditional)
Pain (general remedies for) (Traditional)
Psoriasis (Traditional)
Rashes and Hives (Traditional)
Scars / Scar Tissue (Traditional)
Skin (infections) (Traditional)
Ulcerations (external) (Traditional)
Ulcers (Traditional)
rubia cordifolia is used to support these body systems
Blood (Traditional)
Circulatory System (Traditional)
Digestive System (Traditional)
Female Reproductive System (Traditional)
Gastrointestinal Tract (Traditional)
Immune System (Traditional)
Joints (Traditional)
Kidneys (Traditional)
Liver (Traditional)
Lymphatics (Traditional)
Skin (Traditional)
Urinary System (Traditional)
