Ingredient profile
Malkangani
Celastrus paniculatus
The “intellect tree” seed, traditionally used in Ayurveda to support cognitive function.
- Hindi
- मालकांगनी
- Sanskrit
- Jyotishmati
- Family
- Celastraceae
- Part used
- seed
Traditional use
Malkangani is a woody climbing shrub with bright orange-red seeds held in yellow capsules. The seeds yield a dark oil.
In Ayurvedic tradition
Known in Sanskrit as Jyotishmati, “the luminous one”, it is a classical medhya herb traditionally associated with intellect and memory.
Ayurvedic properties
- Rasa (taste): Pungent, bitter
- Guna (qualities): Sharp
- Virya (potency): Heating
- Vipaka (post-digestive effect): Pungent
- Effect on the doshas: Balances vata and kapha
How it is traditionally taken
Used in small quantities as seed powder or oil, usually within formulations.
Safety notes
Potent and heating; used only in small, measured amounts as directed. Use as directed on the product label. This profile is for general education and is not medical advice.
References
- Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India (monograph: Jyotishmati) pharmacopoeia