About Rudraksha Tree
The Rudraksha tree bears fruit, the seeds of which are the
famous Rudraksha beads, which are a symbol of Lord Shiva and this is the most
important identity of the Rudraksha Tree. The Tree was given its Botanical name
by Scottish Botanist and Surgeon, Dr. William Roxburgh, which is Elaeocarpus
Ganitrus Roxb. The name is a derivative of the Greek term ‘Elae’, meaning ‘wild Olive’, and ‘Carpus’ translates to
'fruit’. The word Rudraksha is a compound of 'Rudra', a name among the many
names of Lord Shiva and 'Aksha', meaning tears. Another interpretation of
'Aksha' is Eye, Lord Shiva's Eye, indicting the Third Eye. In the Tamil
language, it is called Aakkam. It was
common to find Rishis/Sages, Munis wearing Rudraksha bead Malas because of the
sheer power which the Rudraksha exudes.
Rudraksha Trees
grow in the foothills of the Himalayas in the Gangetic plains, spreads to
Nepal, South and South-East Asia. Countries, where Rudraksha Trees grow, are
Nepal, Indonesia(Java), Malaysia, Sri Lanka, parts of Australia, China, and
Guam, other than India. Nepal and Indonesia have cultivated Rudraksha Trees in
an organized manner.
The Rudraksha tree is very tall, approximately 60-80 ft
tall. There are more than 300 varieties of Rudraksha Trees that grow in the
World. The trunk of the Tree is Grey, measuring around 1 meter in width, a
reason for which it can grow in narrow places too. The Trees can be grown at
Sea level to 3000 ft above. The leaves have similarities with the leaves of the
Mango Tree.
Post germination the Rudraksha Tree takes 3 to 4 years to
bear fruit. The fruit is green in color, which changes to Blue when ripe, it
looks like a Berry. The size of the
fruit depends on the locality it grows in, like, Rudraksha fruit of Nepal is
bigger. The flowers of the Tree beautifully bloom in White bunches during the
month of November-December. When the fruit is fully ripe, it falls off the
Tree. After the fruit dries the skin is removed to extract the seed, which is
the holy Rudraksha Bead.
Benefits of Rudraksha Tree
Almost all parts of a Rudraksha Tree have significant
benefits and since ancient times, the wise ones who were aware of this fact
have been using the benefits. It is no wonder then that the Fruit of Rudraksha
Trees were referred to as Amrit Phal, meaning elixir fruit.
The Seed or Rudraksha Bead - The
Rudraksha Bead has tremendous therapeutic value and the power of Rudraksha Beads
has been popularly used since the olden days for Ayurvedic medicines. Rudraksha
is considered a holy Bead by Hindus because of its association with Lord Shiva
and is endowed with the powers of Lord Shiva. Widely found Rudraksha Beads are,
1 Mukhi to 21 Mukhi. The Rudraksha is worn by people as the attributes of the
Rudraksha are innumerable. Each of the various Mukhi Rudraksha has its
attributes and benefits, other than the common ones that apply to all Rudraksha
Beads. Wearing Rudraksha is popular among spiritual seekers as it aids to
follow the spiritual journey, Japamalas or Rosary of Rudraksha beads are widely
used for chanting Shiva Mantras and other Deity Mantras. When worn it calms the
mind, brings peace, heals ailments of various kinds by working on the cellular
level, aids in facing the true self, and transform for the highest good of the
individual. Above all, it bestows with the blessings of Lord Shiva. Wearing
Rudraksha Beads have no negative side effects. However, you can consult an
expert in Rudraksha or a qualified Vedic Astrologer who will be able to give
the correct advice for which Mukhi or a combination of different Rudraksha will
give optimum benefits for you.
The Leaves and Fruit - Leaves of the
Rudraksha Trees have been used since ancient times for treating and healing
various physical ailments. For example, wounds were healed by Rudraksha leaves.
It is said to be used to heal Epilepsy, headaches, Migraine, etc. The fruit and
leaves purify the blood and boost the immune system. Fever, Flu, cold has been successfully
treated by the skin of the fruit.
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At present time Rudraksha Trees are planted by many people
at their homes to bring in the auspiciousness and blessings of Lord Shiva.
As is seen, the versatile Rudraksha Tree has only but to
give to mankind, if we can receive the benefits.