Rudraksha Facts

Q: What are Rudraksha beads? Where are they available?

A: Botanically known as Elaeocarpus ganitrus Roxb., the Rudraksha beads are the seeds of the Rudraksha fruit from Rudraksha trees. Rudraksha trees are found mainly in South Eastern Asian Islands of modern day Indonesia and parts of Kingdom of Nepal. Around 70% of the Rudraksha trees are found in Indonesia, 25% in Nepal and 5% in India. The Rudraksha beads have lines and faces called Mukhis.

Q: What is special about Rudraksha beads? Are Rudraksha beads used only for meditation? Are the beads suitable only for people from a certain background?

A: Since ancient times, Asian saints and monks have worn the Rudraksha beads because it increased their powers of concentration and meditation. It also gave them great control over their mind. This kind of state of mind is ideal even for modern day professionals.

These different faceted beads are beneficial for the entire mankind because it selectively alters personality and mindsets in a positive way. Rudraksha can rejuvenate our mind, body and soul, help us perform to our full potential and enhance the overall quality of our life. The anti aging property of Rudraksha is well experienced. The beads have a positive effect on every aspect of life. They are helpful in counteracting the malefic effects of planets.

Q: Can we wear a combination of different Mukhis? How do we decide which combination of beads to wear?

A: Yes, we can wear a combination of all the Rudraksha beads. The individual powers of the beads can be felt simultaneously. A pendant of any Mukhi can also be worn. The beads can be chosen on the basis of their properties. One may also choose to wear one Rudraksha bead of a particular Mukhi or multiple beads of the same Mukhi since it enhances the power of that bead. A combination of different Mukhi beads can be worn to counteract the malefic effects of planets. Rudraksha Therapy is more effective than gem therapy as Rudraksha not only pacifies the negative influence of planets but also gives peace and comfort to the wearer.

Q: Can all wear Rudraksha? How long does it take to feel some effect?

A: Yes, everyone irrespective of sex, age, caste, creed, sect or cultural, ethnic, geographical and religious background can wear it. The ancient Indian scriptures state that it takes about 40 days for the effects of the Rudraksha bead to be felt. However, some people experience certain changes immediately while a few take a longer time. Wearing Rudraksha is auspicious and it brings a continuous beneficial change in an individual's life.

Q: How is the genuineness of the beads tested? How do we choose a good Rudraksha bead?

A: The genuineness of the Rudraksha bead is tested by a lot of methods. But none of them are foolproof. Test like water test where beads are placed in a glass of water and if they sink, they are said to be genuine. However, the genuine unripe Rudraksha beads also float. Other tests are the copper coins test where the bead movement decides the genuineness. Fake Rudraksha may be checked by magnifying glass as well. However, the best way to buy a genuine Rudraksha is through a trusted supplier.

Q: What is the life of a Rudraksha bead? Can ladies and Non Hindus wear Rudraksha?

A: The life of Rudraksha beads is very long. If well protected, they can be passed on for generations. Anyone irrespective of religion, caste, creed or sex can wear the Rudraksha beads. However, ladies should not wear these beads during the menstrual cycle.

Q: How is Rudraksha helpful in controlling blood pressure? Does Rudraksha help in sudden palpitations/nervousness?

A: Rudraksha beads transmit electrical impulses. When placed over the heart, the Rudraksha stabilizes the wearer's heart beats. The Ayurvedic system of treatment of blood pressure involves dipping 2 Five mukhi Rudraksha beads in water after sunset. Drink this water in the morning as you get up. Copper vessels should not be used. Whenever you feel nervous due to sudden shock, hold a Five Mukhi Rudraksha tightly in your right palm for 10 minutes. You will start feeling warm and regain your confidence.

Q: Can the family members keep interchanging Rudraksha beads, neck malas or japa malas? Should we wear Rudraksha when we have to go to the cremation ground?

A: No, Rudraksha beads or japa malas or neck malas should not be interchanged amongst the family members. However, Rudraksha can be willed and passed on to the next generation. No, one should not wear Rudraksha while visiting the cremation ground.

Q: Can we wear Rudraksha in a ring?

A: Rudraksha beads must always be kept pure. Hence, wearing a Rudraksha in the ring should be avoided as hands get dirty. The powers of the bead get affected.

Q: Can children wear One Mukhi Rudraksha?

A: No, children should avoid wearing One Mukhi Rudraksha. This Rudraksha requires a lot of self control which growing children might not be able to cope up with. However, children respond very well to lower Mukhi Rudrakshas.

Q: Is Rudraksha suited to all skin types?

A: The nature and essence of rudraksha is hot so some people cannot wear it. Their skin show signs of allergy. In such cases, the Rudraksha beads may be kept in the pooja room and daily prayers should be offered to them.

Q: What precautions should be taken while wearing the Rudraksha beads?

A: The following precautions should be followed :

Ancient Puranas recommend taking bath with Rudraksha on the body. However, Rudraksha should be protected from the action of soap and talcum powder that dehydrate and clog the pores.

Rudraksha may be worn on a regular basis. However, ladies should take off Rudraksha during menstrual cycle. Rudraksha should not be worn when going to a funeral.

It is recommended that the mala should be taken off at night before sleep and worn again in the morning after bath.

Beads should be cleaned by dipping them into warm water overnight. Then scrub then with soft bristle brush, wash again and let them dry. Then apply sandalwood oil. The beads should be purified by offering incense, sandalwood paste and chanting the seed mantra of that Mukhi.