Nagkesar (Nagakesara (Nagapushpa, Naga, Keshara))
Medically Reviewed by Ayuveda Clinical Team (Lead Medical Reviewer: Dr. Nitin Mohite, BAMS, MBA • Medical Logic Developer, UK • Clinical Profile • LinkedIn).
About
Nagkesar (Mesua ferrea) is a well-known herb in Ayurvedic medicine, traditionally used for digestive and respiratory health, wound healing, and bleeding disorders. Modern research supports its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
Botanical name: Mesua ferrea. Also known as: Cobra Saffron, Indian Rose Chestnut, Ironwood, Nagasampige, Nagchampa.
Properties
Inhibition of cyclooxygenase enzymes, Anti-inflammatory action, Antimicrobial properties, Hemostatic properties
Dosage
Flower stamens: 1-3 grams; Seed oil: 5-10 drops.
Classical attributes
- Rasa: Kashaya (astringent), Tikta (bitter)
- Virya: ["Ushna (heating)"]
- Vipaka: ["Katu (pungent)"]
Benefits
- Deepana (appetizer)
- Pachana (digestive)
- Shoolahara (pain reliever)
- Raktastambhana (hemostatic)
- Vranaropana (wound healing)
Traditional uses
- Agnimandya (digestive impairment)
- Atisara (diarrhea)
- Raktapitta (bleeding disorders)
- Vrana (wound)
Dosha effects
- vata: balancing
- kapha: balancing
- pitta: balancing
Preparation methods
- Powder (Churna): Grind the dried stamens of Nagkesar into a fine powder. Dosage is typically 1-3 grams.
- Infusion (Kwath): Boil the stamens in water to prepare an infusion. Used externally for wounds or internally for bleeding disorders.
- Oil (Taila): Extract oil from the seeds of Mesua ferrea. The oil can be used externally for skin conditions or internally in small doses.
Contraindications
- Pregnancy
- Lactation
- Individuals with severe constipation
Side effects
- Dryness of mouth
- Constipation (if taken in excess)
Interactions
- May interact with anticoagulant medications due to its hemostatic properties.
Active compounds
- Phenyl coumarins
- Xanthones
- Triterpenoids
- Flavonoids
- Pyranoxanthones
- Betulinic acid
- Myricadiol
Clinical evidence
Clinical studies indicate potential benefits of Nagkesar in managing dyspepsia, bloating, IBS, menstrual cramps, respiratory issues and PCOD. Further rigorous trials are needed to confirm these effects.
Ayurvedic karmas
- Deepana (appetizer)
- Pachana (digestive)
- Shoolahara (pain reliever)
- Raktastambhana (hemostatic)
- Vranaropana (wound healing)
Classical clinical indications
- Agnimandya (digestive impairment)
- Atisara (diarrhea)
- Raktapitta (bleeding disorders)
- Vrana (wound)
Frequently asked questions
What is Nagkesar?
Nagkesar (Mesua ferrea) is a well-known herb in Ayurvedic medicine, traditionally used for digestive and respiratory health, wound healing, and bleeding disorders. Modern research supports its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
What are the benefits of Nagkesar?
Deepana (appetizer). Pachana (digestive). Shoolahara (pain reliever)
How is Nagkesar used in Ayurveda?
Powder (Churna): Grind the dried stamens of Nagkesar into a fine powder. Dosage is typically 1-3 grams.
Classical & Scientific References
- Classical monographs on Nagkesar in Bhavaprakasha Nighantu and Dravyaguna Vijnana.
- Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India (API), Ministry of AYUSH, Government of India.
- Charaka Samhita (Sutra Sthana Ch. 4 — Dravyadi Sangrahaniya) & Sushruta Samhita.
Published by herbs.directory