Nagakesara

(Cobra's Saffron)
Sanskrit: नागकेसर • Botanical: Mesua ferrea Linn.

Nagakesara (Mesua ferrea) flower stamens are one of the most valued flower-medicines in Ayurveda. The golden stamens from the white flowers are dried and used medicinally. They have excellent hemostatic and absorbent properties. Used in bleeding piles, dysentery, and excessive menstrual bleeding. The dried stamens are sold commercially. They have a pleasant fragrance. The tree produces hard timber. The stamens are an ingredient in many classical formulations. Verse: 15, 45.

Ayurvedic Properties

Taste (Rasa)
Astringent (Kashaya), Bitter (Tikta)
Quality (Guna)
Light (Laghu), Dry (Ruksha)
Potency (Virya)
Hot (Ushna)
Post-digestive (Vipaka)
Pungent (Katu)
Key Constituents
Mesuol, Mesuagin, Xanthones, Essential oil, Mesuanic acid
Also Known As
English: Cobra's Saffron, Ironwood Stamens
Sanskrit: नागकेसर, नागपुष्प, काञ्चनाह्वय
Hindi: नागकेसर

What is Nagakesara (Iron Wood Stamen / नागकेसर)?

Nagakesara (Mesua ferrea) flower stamens are one of the most valued flower-medicines in Ayurveda. The golden stamens from the white flowers are dried and used medicinally. They have excellent hemostatic and absorbent properties. Used in bleeding piles, dysentery, and excessive menstrual bleeding. The dried stamens are sold commercially. They have a pleasant fragrance. The tree produces hard timber. The stamens are an ingredient in many classical formulations. Verse: 15, 45.

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 4

Therapeutic Actions (Karma)

  • Grahi (absorbent)
  • Raktapittahara (alleviates bleeding)
  • Vishaghna (anti-toxic)
  • Vranaropana (wound healing)

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 4

Nagakesara by Condition

Explore how Nagakesara is used for specific health concerns — with dosage, preparation methods, and classical references for each.

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Nagakesara for Menstrual Health
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Nagakesara for PCOS

Medical Disclaimer: The information on this page is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Ayurvedic treatments should be pursued under the guidance of a qualified practitioner (BAMS/MD Ayurveda). Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any new treatment. Content is sourced from classical Ayurvedic texts and may not reflect the latest medical research.