Rubia cordifolia, commonly known as Indian madder or Manjistha, is traditionally used in Ayurvedic and other systems of medicine to support the treatment of leucorrhea (an abnormal white vaginal discharge). Historical Ayurvedic texts describe Manjistha as a “Raktashodhak” (blood purifier) and as having properties to support gynecological health, including the management of various types of vaginal discharges. The herb is believed to possess astringent, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial effects, which may be beneficial in reducing excessive discharge and addressing underlying infections or inflammation that can contribute to leucorrhea.

The evidence for Rubia cordifolia’s use in leucorrhea is primarily anecdotal and based on centuries of traditional practice within Ayurveda. While a few in vitro and animal studies suggest antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activities of Rubia cordifolia extracts, there is a lack of well-designed clinical trials specifically evaluating its efficacy for leucorrhea in humans. A small number of herbal formulations containing Manjistha are used in clinical Ayurvedic practice, but these are often polyherbal, making it difficult to attribute effects solely to Rubia cordifolia. Overall, its use for leucorrhea is justified by tradition with limited scientific support; more rigorous clinical research is needed to validate its efficacy and safety for this particular indication.