Rudraksha

Beginner’s Guide to Rudraksha: Types, Uses & Meaning, Benefits, Astrological & Energy Significance, Scientific Findings

Post by Rudraksha Indonesia

Aug 08 2023

🌿 What Is Rudraksha?

Rudraksha is a biojewelry, organic & developed entirely in nature, it is beautiful and captivating in its looks and filled with energy, history and spiritual significance.

🧘 If you have ever seen the picture of Lord Shiva or any Hindu saints or Gurus or Gods & Goddesses, you will notice them wearing Rudraksha beads in the form of mala. In modern times, it is worn by many celebrities, politicians, business tycoons, Hindu saints/gurus, academics, and yoga & energy enthusiasts. Its use has transcended the boundaries of any one religion and nationality.

📿Rudraksha beads come from the seeds of the Rudraksha plant Elaeocarpus ganitrus fruit. It is highly revered in Hinduism and other spiritual traditions. The term Rudraksha is a Sanskrit word, where Rudra refers to Lord Shiva and Aksh means tears or eyes. According to scriptures, Rudraksha is considered to be the tears of Lord Shiva, when they touched the earth & Rudraksha trees grew at those spots.Rudraksha beads are a symbol of spirituality, fearlessness and a source of energy for good health, abundance, and tranquility.

🌏 The worship of Lord Shiva is widespread in India, and references to Lord Shiva have also been found in inscriptions in many ancient temples in China, Japan, Indonesia, and other Asian countries. Most Hindu, Sikh and Jain homes use Rudraksha as a symbol of spirituality.

For generations these beads have been used in malas (prayer necklaces) for meditation & spiritual practices, mental wellbeing, and for Ayurvedic medicinal purposes. Rudraksha have also been used as a form of jewelry, many times being combined with silver or gold. However, unfortunately despite the immense power and many benefits of Rudraksha, not many people are aware of its true powers, its benefits, and how to use it.

🌱 The Rudraksha Tree: Botanical Insights

Scientific Name: Elaeocarpus ganitrus
Habitat: Native to the Himalayan regions, particularly in Nepal, parts of Southeast Asia (Indonesia) and India.
Description: Large evergreen trees that generate fruits of blue colour shade, and contain the Rudraksha seed.

🌿 Medicinal Properties

Rudraksha beads are believed to possess therapeutic qualities:

Cardiovascular Health: May help in regulating blood pressure and heart rate.
Mental Well-being: Used in traditional medicine to alleviate stress and anxiety.
Anti-inflammatory: Potential anti-inflammatory effects beneficial for various ailments.

📌 What is Rudraksha Botanically?

Scientific name: Elaeocarpus ganitrus
Family: Elaeocarpaceae
Type: Broad-leaved, evergreen tree
Average height: 15–30 meters
Fruit: Blue outer skin (drupaceous berry); the bead is the inner seed

🗺️ Where Does Rudraksha Grow Naturally?

Rudraksha trees are native to:

Nepal – produces the rarest and most sought-after Rudraksha beads
Indonesia – Java, Sumatra, Bali (known for smoother, smaller beads)
India – primarily in Uttarakhand, Himachal, Assam, and coastal Karnataka
Thailand and parts of Malaysia

🌍 Also found in rare pockets of Sri Lanka, Myanmar, and Hawaii.

🧪 Scientific Research on Rudraksha

1. Cognitive and Neurological Benefits

According to research paper, titled “Enhancing Memory through Rudraksha: An Interdisciplinary Approach to Forensic Neuropsychology”, published by The International Journal of Indian Psychology:

Memory Enhancement: Studies indicate that wearing 4 Mukhi Rudraksha beads can improve memory, verbal recall, reaction time, and cognitive flexibility. EEG analyses showed increased alpha and beta wave activity, suggesting enhanced brain function.
Stress Reduction: The electromagnetic properties of Rudraksha beads are believed to stabilize the autonomic nervous system, leading to reduced stress and anxiety levels.

2. Cardiovascular Health

According to research article titled “Rudraksha (Elaeocarpus ganitrus Roxb) From Divine Miracles to Pharmaceutical Innovations for Medicinal Properties” published by ClinicSearch:

Blood Pressure Regulation: Wearing Rudraksha beads has been associated with the stabilization of heart rate and blood pressure, potentially due to their electromagnetic effects on the body.

3. Anti-inflammatory and Antioxidant Properties

According to research article titled “Rudraksha (Elaeocarpus ganitrus Roxb) From Divine Miracles to Pharmaceutical Innovations for Medicinal Properties” published by ClinicSearch:

Anti-inflammatory Effects: Extracts from Rudraksha seeds have demonstrated anti-inflammatory properties, which may be beneficial in managing conditions like arthritis.
Antioxidant Activity: The presence of bioactive compounds such as flavonoids and tannins in Rudraksha seeds suggests potential antioxidant benefits, helping to combat oxidative stress.

4. Antimicrobial and Antifungal Properties

According to research article published by International Research Journal Publication Network (RJPN):

Antimicrobial Activity: Rudraksha extracts have shown efficacy against various bacterial strains, including E. coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, indicating potential as a natural antimicrobial agent.
Antifungal Effects: Studies have also reported antifungal activity against molds like Aspergillus niger and yeasts, suggesting broader antimicrobial properties.

5. Neuroprotective and Antidepressant Effects

According to research article titled “Rudraksha (Elaeocarpus ganitrus Roxb) From Divine Miracles to Pharmaceutical Innovations for Medicinal Properties” published by ClinicSearch and research article published by International Research Journal Publication Network (RJPN):

Neuroprotection: Compounds in Rudraksha may offer neuroprotective benefits, potentially aiding in the management of neurodegenerative disorders.
Antidepressant Properties: Research indicates that Rudraksha extracts can have antidepressant effects, possibly due to their influence on neurotransmitter activity.

6. Electromagnetic Properties

According to research article titled “Scientific Research on Elaeocarpus Ganitrus (Rudraksha) for its Medicinal Importance” published by International Journal of Advanced Research in Science, Communication and Technology (IJARSCT):

Bioelectrical Influence: Rudraksha beads possess electromagnetic properties that may influence the body's bioelectrical systems, contributing to their various health benefits.

📌 Conclusion of Scientific Studies on Rudraksha

Scientific studies support various traditional claims about Rudraksha's health benefits, including cognitive enhancement, stress reduction, cardiovascular support, and antimicrobial properties. While further research is warranted, these findings highlight the potential of Rudraksha as a complementary approach to health and wellness.

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🌱 Life Cycle: From Planting to Mala

1. Seed Germination

The Rudraksha fruit pulp is removed, and seeds are soaked for 7–10 days.
Germination takes 4–6 weeks in warm, moist conditions.

2. Tree Maturation

Trees grow steadily and begin fruiting around year 5–7.
Full production capacity is reached after 10 years.

3. Harvesting the Fruits

The blue fruits mature and are handpicked in late monsoon or early winter.
Inside is the dry Rudraksha bead (the seed) covered in a natural shell.

4. Cleaning & Drying

Fruits are soaked to soften the pulp, then cleaned using water and brushes.
The inner seed is dried in sunlight for 3–7 days.

5. Sorting by Mukhi (Faces)

Each bead is examined and sorted by the number of natural grooves (mukhis).
Rare beads (1 Mukhi, 13 Mukhi, etc.) are kept aside for special malas or pendants.

6. Drilling & Polishing

A hole is drilled with precision to preserve energy flow.
Beads may be lightly polished or oiled (but not chemically treated in traditional processing).

7. Stringing into Malas

Beads are then strung into malas (necklaces) — typically 108+1 beads
For higher-end malas, silver or gold capping is added
Energetic malas (like Siddha Mala) are often strung in spiritual environments with mantras

The following are some of the glimpses of preparation of the beads from our Java plantations (Rudraksha Indonesia).

Rudraksha Plantation in Java:

Rudraksha Tree & Fruit:

Rudraksha Fruit Cleaning:

Rudraksha beads sorting:

📿 History of Rudraksha Through the Ages

🕉️ Origins in Hindu Mythology

The story of Rudraksha begins in ancient Vedic and Puranic scriptures. According to the Shiva Purana, Rudraksha beads were formed from the tears of Lord Shiva.

📜 Mentions in Ancient Texts

Rudraksha has been referenced in many sacred texts, including:

Shiva Purana
Padma Purana
Devi Bhagavatam
Mantra Maharnava
Skanda Purana

These scriptures describe:

The origin and classification of Mukhi (faces)
How to wear them for specific results
The spiritual, healing, and planetary influence of each type

📍 Historical Use in India & Beyond

Rudraksha beads have been worn for thousands of years by yogis, sadhus, spiritual seekers, kings, and householders.
Commonly used in India, Nepal, and Tibet, they were also revered in Southeast Asia and parts of Indonesia.
Ancient trade routes spread them to Thailand, Sri Lanka, and Java where local cultures adopted them with reverence.

📿 Evolution Through the Ages

Ancient Times: Used during meditation, japa (mantra chanting), and rituals. Rudraksha malas were handmade and given as spiritual blessings.
Medieval Period: Became part of royal court customs, and were worn by warriors and kings for protection.
Modern Times: Gained global interest for their electromagnetic and medicinal properties. Now used not just for spiritual growth but also for stress relief, wellness, and planetary balancing.

🌍 Rudraksha Today

Still sourced from Nepal, India, and Indonesia
Integrated into Ayurveda, Yoga, and holistic healing systems
Popular among celebrities, spiritual leaders, and wellness communities worldwide

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🕉️ Rudraksha in Hinduism: The Shiva Connection

According to Hindu mythology, Rudraksha beads originated from the tears of Lord Shiva. When Shiva meditated for the well-being of the world, his tears fell to the earth, sprouting the Rudraksha tree. Each mukhi is believed to embody different aspects of divinity, offering various spiritual benefits.

🌟 Who Is Lord Shiva?

Lord Shiva is one of the principal deities in the Hindu Trimurti (Trinity), alongside Brahma (the creator) and Vishnu (the preserver). Shiva is known as the destroyer and transformer — a divine force that clears what no longer serves so new energy can emerge.

He is also the Lord of Meditation, Time, and Cosmic Power — often worshipped by yogis, seekers, and spiritual aspirants worldwide.

🧘♂️ How Is Lord Shiva Depicted?

Shiva’s iconography is rich with symbolic meaning:

🟤 Ash-smeared body – Signifies detachment from materialism
🐍 Snake (Vasuki) around his neck – Mastery over fear and ego
📿Rudraksha beads around his neck, arms, and wrists
🌙 Crescent Moon – Control over time and the mind
💧 Ganga flowing from his hair – Channeling the sacred river’s power
🔱 Trishul (Trident) – Represents destruction of ego, ignorance, and illusion
👁️ Third Eye – Symbol of supreme perception and inner awakening
🐂 Rides Nandi (bull) – Represents strength and dharma (righteous path)
💀 Necklace of skulls – Reminder of impermanence and spiritual evolution

🏔️ Where Does Lord Shiva Reside?

Lord Shiva resides on Mount Kailash in the Himalayas — a place considered both physically real and spiritually symbolic. It’s said to be a dimension of stillness and supreme consciousness where time and ego dissolve.

👨👩👦 His Divine Family

Consort: 🕉️ Goddess Parvati – embodiment of divine Shakti (energy)
Children: Lord Ganesha – remover of obstacles, god of wisdom; and Lord Kartikeya (Murugan) – god of war and victory

Vehicle: 🐂 Nandi the Bull – stands for patience, loyalty, and truth

Their family represents the cosmic balance of wisdom, strength, devotion, and energy.

🔱 The Story Behind Rudraksha Beads

The word Rudraksha comes from two Sanskrit words: Rudra = a fierce form of Lord Shiva, Aksha = tears

As per the Shiva Purana, Lord Shiva once went into deep meditation for the well-being of all living beings. When he awoke, he opened his eyes and tears of compassion fell onto the Earth. These tears crystallized into Rudraksha trees, and their seeds became the sacred Rudraksha beads.

These beads are considered Shiva's gift to humanity — imbued with the power to:

🧘♀️ Aid spiritual evolution
🛡️ Protect against negativity
✨ Align the chakras and mind

🕉️ Why Shiva Is Closely Connected with Rudraksha

📿 Shiva himself is always depicted wearing Rudraksha malas
🧘 The beads are believed to hold his energy and frequency
🔮 Wearing Rudraksha is seen as a way to connect with Shiva’s consciousness

🧠 Symbolic & Spiritual Significance

Shiva represents transcendence, destruction of ego, and liberation (moksha)
He is formless and infinite, yet also takes personal form to guide and protect devotees
Devotees of Shiva (Shaivites) often chant “Om Namah Shivaya” and wear Rudraksha to stay aligned with his path of awareness and non-attachment

🔢 Understanding Mukhi: The Faces of Rudraksha

Each Rudraksha bead has natural grooves called "mukhi," ranging from 1 to 21, each with its own symbolism and ruling deities:

1 Mukhi: Symbolizes pure consciousness; associated with Lord Shiva.
2 Mukhi: Represents unity; linked to Ardhanarishvara (Shiva and Parvati combined).
3 Mukhi: Embodies fire; connected to Agni Deva (fire God).
4 Mukhi: Denotes knowledge; associated with Lord Brahma.
5 Mukhi: Most common; represents the five elements and Kalagni Rudra (a form of Shiva).
6 Mukhi: Symbolizes willpower and discipline; ruled by Lord Kartikeya (Skanda).
7 Mukhi: Represents prosperity; associated with Goddess Mahalakshmi.
8 Mukhi: Remover of obstacles; governed by Lord Ganesha.
9 Mukhi: Symbolizes divine feminine power; linked to Goddess Durga.
10 Mukhi: Represents divine protection; associated with Lord Vishnu.
11 Mukhi: Symbolizes valor and devotion; ruled by Lord Hanuman.
12 Mukhi: Signifies radiance and leadership; linked to Lord Surya (Sun God).
13 Mukhi: Embodies charm and desire; associated with Lord Kamadeva (God of Love).
14 Mukhi: Represents intuition and protection; connected to Lord Hanuman and Shiva's third eye.
15 Mukhi: Symbolizes compassion and emotional balance; ruled by Lord Pashupatinath (a form of Shiva).
16 Mukhi: Represents victory and fearlessness; associated with Lord Rama.
17 Mukhi: Embodies fulfillment and spiritual power; ruled by Goddess Katyayani (form of Durga).
18 Mukhi: Symbol of fertility and abundance; associated with Bhumi Devi (Mother Earth).
19 Mukhi: Represents universal fulfillment; linked to Lord Narayana (form of Vishnu).
20 Mukhi: Signifies knowledge and cosmic wisdom; associated with Lord Brahma.
21 Mukhi: Symbolizes divine prosperity and blessings; ruled by Lord Kuber (God of Wealth).

⚡ Energy Dynamics: Rudraksha and Chakras Energy Association for 1 to 21 Mukhi

Rudraksha beads are thought to interact with the body's energy centers (chakras). Here's a full guide 1 to 21 Mukhi Rudraksha Chakra and Energy Alignment.

1 Mukhi: Crown Chakra 👑 – Enhances spiritual connection and divine awareness.
2 Mukhi: Third Eye Chakra 👁️ – Improves intuition, emotional balance, and inner harmony.
3 Mukhi: Solar Plexus Chakra 🔥 – Boosts confidence, energy, and clears karmic patterns.
4 Mukhi: Heart Chakra 💚 – Promotes love, compassion, and emotional healing.
5 Mukhi: Throat Chakra 💬 – Aids in communication, calmness, and self-expression.
6 Mukhi: Sacral Chakra 🧡 – Enhances creativity, sensuality, and emotional power.
7 Mukhi: Root Chakra 🌱 – Grounds energy, attracts wealth, and removes instability.
8 Mukhi: Solar Plexus Chakra 🔆 – Clears obstacles, supports decision-making and focus.
9 Mukhi: Sacral Chakra 🌺 – Ignites inner strength, courage, and passion.
10 Mukhi: All Chakras 🌈 – Provides complete protection and chakra harmonization.
11 Mukhi: Crown & Third Eye Chakra 🔱 – Increases spiritual alertness and inner discipline.
12 Mukhi: Solar Plexus & Heart Chakra 🌞 – Elevates vitality, leadership, and charisma.
13 Mukhi: Sacral & Heart Chakra 💘 – Attracts love, charm, and enhances magnetism.
14 Mukhi: Third Eye Chakra 👁️ – Awakens intuition, foresight, and divine perception.
15 Mukhi: Heart & Crown Chakra 💖👑 – Fosters compassion, emotional healing, and spiritual awareness.
16 Mukhi: Throat & Solar Plexus Chakra 🌀 – Provides inner strength, confidence, and protection.
17 Mukhi: Root & Sacral Chakra 🌍 – Fulfills desires, enhances life force, and spiritual focus.
18 Mukhi: Root Chakra 🌾 – Deeply grounds energy, stabilizes emotions, and promotes fertility.
19 Mukhi: All Chakras ✨ – Facilitates wholeness, spiritual success, and energetic radiance.
20 Mukhi: Crown & Third Eye Chakra 💫 – Expands cosmic wisdom, intellect, and intuitive clarity.
21 Mukhi: All Chakras 🛡️ – Provides full-body energetic shielding and divine empowerment.

Wearing the appropriate Rudraksha can help balance and activate specific chakras, leading to overall well-being.

🔮 Astrological Significance of Rudraksha

In Vedic astrology, Rudraksha beads are associated with planetary energies:

1 Mukhi: ☀️ Sun – Enhances leadership spiritual clarity, and self-realization
2 Mukhi: 🌙 Moon – Balances emotionssupports relationships, and mental peace
3 Mukhi: 🔴 Mars – Increases energy removes past guilt, and boosts confidence
4 Mukhi: 🟢 Mercury – Improves communication, intellect, and creative expression
5 Mukhi: 🟡 Jupiter – Promotes wisdom, learning, spiritual growth, and mental clarity
6 Mukhi: 💖 Venus – Enhances charm, artistic ability, love, and emotional balance
7 Mukhi: 🪐 Saturn – Attracts wealth, removes misfortune, and balances karma
8 Mukhi: ☄️ Rahu – Removes obstacles, improves focus, and clears confusion
9 Mukhi: 🌌 Ketu – Boosts courage, detachment, and shields against negativity
10 Mukhi: 🌟 All Planets – Shields from evil energies, black magic, and misfortunes
11 Mukhi: 🌟 All Planets – Provides protection, fearlessness, and spiritual awareness
12 Mukhi: ☀️ Sun – Increases radiance, authority, and leadership capabilities
13 Mukhi: 💖 Venus – Attracts love, luxury, charm, and fulfillment of desires
14 Mukhi: 🪐 Saturn – Awakens intuition, provides protection and spiritual grounding
15 Mukhi: 🟢 Mercury – Boosts emotional healing, compassion, and intuitive insight
16 Mukhi: 🌙 Moon – Offers victory, healing, inner strength, and emotional stability
17 Mukhi: 🪐 Saturn – Grants abundance, spiritual elevation, and fulfillment of goals
18 Mukhi: 🌍 Earth – Enhances fertility, prosperity, stability, connection to Mother Earth
19 Mukhi: ☀️ Sun – Attracts wealth, success, and fulfillment of material desires
20 Mukhi: 🟢 Mercury – Enhances knowledge, communication, and spiritual insight
21 Mukhi: 🌟 All Planets – Provides divine protection, immense wealth, and blessings of all deities

Selecting a Rudraksha based on one's astrological chart can mitigate planetary afflictions and enhance positive influences.

✅ Benefits of Using Rudraksha

Spiritual Growth: Deepens meditation and spiritual practices.
Mental Clarity: Enhances focus and reduces stress.
Physical Health: Supports heart health and balances bodily functions.
Emotional Balance: Stabilizes mood swings and promotes inner peace.
Protection: Believed to ward off negative energies and influences.

For general wellness, 5 Mukhi Rudraksha is recommended. However, there are options for different needs & objectives that you might have.

🌟 Celebrities wearing Rudraksha - Indian

🎬 Amitabh Bachchan

Often seen wearing Rudraksha malas during religious and spiritual functions.
Known for his devotion to Lord Shiva.

🎬 Rajinikanth

Deeply spiritual; frequently wears Rudraksha malas off-screen.
Said to meditate regularly and visit Kailash.

🎬 Ajay Devgn

Frequently spotted wearing Rudraksha on his wrist or neck.
Known to be a devotee of Lord Shiva.

🎬 Kangana Ranaut

Wears Rudraksha beads and often speaks of her faith in Vedic practices.
Supports spiritual discipline and energy work.

🎬 Dhanush

Inspired by father-in-law Rajinikanth, has been seen wearing Himalayan Rudraksha for energy grounding.

🎬 Manoj Bajpayee

Publicly acknowledged wearing Rudraksha and following spiritual practices.

🎤 Shruti Haasan

Reportedly wears Rudraksha on the advice of astrologers for positivity and peace.

🎤 Anup Jalota

Bhajan singer often seen wearing Rudraksha beads during performances and interviews.

🎤 Sonu Nigam

Follows spiritual practices; has mentioned using Rudraksha during meditation.

🌍 Celebrities wearing Rudraksha - International

🎥 Julia Roberts

Wore Rudraksha and embraced Indian spiritual culture during her Eat Pray Love journey.
Spoke publicly about her connection to Eastern spirituality.

🎤 Russell Brand

Has explored Vedic traditions, yoga, and spiritual practices, including wearing malas that sometimes feature Rudraksha beads.

💻 Steve Jobs

While not confirmed to wear Rudraksha regularly, he was deeply influenced by Indian spirituality and was known to meditate with beads after his trip to India.

🧘 Yoga & Spiritual Leaders wearing Rudraksha

🕉️ Sadhguru (Jaggi Vasudev)

Always seen wearing Rudraksha beads.
Promotes the spiritual and vibrational benefits of Rudraksha through Isha Foundation.

🧘♂️ Baba Ramdev

Often wears Rudraksha during yoga sessions and public appearances.
Speaks about the Ayurvedic and spiritual benefits of Rudraksha.

🕊️ Sri Sri Ravi Shankar

Encourages the use of spiritual tools like Rudraksha for balance and meditation.

🏛️ Political Leaders wearing Rudraksha

Indira Gandhi

Believed to have worn a 1 Mukhi Rudraksha for spiritual protection and clarity.

Bal Thackeray

Frequently seen wearing multiple Rudraksha malas.

Narendra Modi

Spotted wearing a Rudraksha mala, especially during spiritual events and temple visits.

📿How to Wear Rudraksha

📌 Key Guidelines to Wear Rudraksha Properly

✅ Wear on an auspicious day: Ideal days include Monday, Maha Shivratri, or during Brahma Muhurat (early morning before sunrise).
✅ Cleanse the bead first: Soak in clean water or raw milk for a few hours to purify.
✅ Energize with a mantra: Chant "Om Namah Shivaya" or the specific Beej Mantra for your Mukhi type 108 times.
✅ Wear on the right body part: Most wear it as a neck mala, bracelet, or ring depending on comfort and type.
✅ Use the right number of beads: Wearers often use 27+1, 54+1, or 108+1 beads. One extra bead is the Meru bead or Guru bead.
✅ String it properly: Use red or black thread, silk, or silver/gold chain depending on spiritual or aesthetic preferences.

🧿 What Not to Do While Wearing Rudraksha

❌ Do not wear during intimacy, alcohol consumption, or non-vegetarian meals.
❌ Avoid wearing during funerals or childbirth.
❌ Never share your Rudraksha bead with others.

🔮 Ideal Times to Wear Rudraksha

🌅 During meditation, yoga, prayers, or any spiritual practice.
👔 You can also wear it daily at work or home — just maintain cleanliness and respect.

🔁 Can You Wear Rudraksha All the Time?

Yes — many spiritual practitioners and yogis wear Rudraksha 24/7. Just remember:

Clean regularly with water and wipe with a soft cloth.
Avoid soap or chemical cleaners.
Recharge periodically with mantras or sunlight.

📿 How to Energize Rudraksha Before Wearing

Wake up early and bathe.
Clean the bead with clean water or ghee.
Sit facing East or North.
Place bead on a clean cloth or copper plate.
Chant the Beej Mantra for the specific Mukhi (e.g., “Om Hreem Namah” for 5 Mukhi).
Wear with devotion and gratitude.

🌟 Best Practices for Wearing Rudraksha

🌿 Stay vegetarian as much as possible.
🧼 Keep the bead clean and charged.
🙏 Treat it with respect — it’s not just jewelry but a sacred spiritual companion.