9 Sacred Herbs Linked to Navdurga for Ultimate Healing and Protection

In the Ganesh Khanda of the Brahmavaivarta Purana, it is stated that at the time of creation, a great divine power manifested with five names. These five names are: Radha, Padma, Savitri, Durga, and Saraswati.

These five are the powers embodying the five elements (Panchatattva-mayī Shaktis). Due to the creation of the three Gunas (Sattva, Rajas, Tamas), she is called Trigunatmika, and her worship is performed in the forms of: Mahakali, Mahalakshmi, and Mahasaraswati.

Appearing in ten forms, she is also known as the Dashamahavidya (the ten great wisdom goddesses). During the nine days (tithis) of Navratri, the nine forms of Durga are worshipped, and they are collectively called Navadurga.

According to Ayurvedic tradition, the nine forms of Maa Durga are linked to nine powerful medicinal plants/herbs. These natural remedies help treat various health issues and promote overall well-being. Let's learn about them in simple words:

1. First: Shailputri (Harad)

   
   

   Harad is a key medicine in Ayurveda, useful for many diseases. It is also called Himavati and is considered a form of Devi Shailputri. It comes in seven types: Pathya, Haritika, Amrita, Hemvati, Kayastha, Chetaki, and Shreyasi.

2. Second: Brahmacharini (Brahmi)

   
   

   Brahmi increases lifespan and memory power, treats blood-related problems, and makes the voice sweet and clear. That is why it is also known as Saraswati.

3. Third: Chandraghanta (Chandusur)

   
   

   This plant looks similar to coriander. It helps reduce obesity, so it is also called Charmahanti (a killer of skin diseases).

4. Fourth: Kushmanda (Ash Gourd)

   
   

   The sweet dish Petha is made from this. It is also called Kumhada. It removes blood disorders, cleans the stomach, and works like nectar for mental health problems. 

   
   

5. Fifth: Skandamata (Alsi or Flaxseed)

   
   

   Flaxseed is considered the form of Devi Skandamata. This medicine balances Vata, Pitta, and Kapha doshas. It is rich in fiber, so everyone should roast it with black salt and consume it twice daily (morning and evening). It also purifies the blood.

6. Sixth: Katyayani (Moiya or Vasaka)

   
   

   The plant associated with Devi Katyayani has many names in Ayurveda, such as Amba, Ambalika, and Ambika. It is also known as Moiya. This plant cures Kapha, Pitta, and throat-related diseases.

7. Seventh: Kalaratri (Nagdaun)

   
   

   This herb is known as Nagdaun. It is helpful for all kinds of diseases and addresses disorders of the mind and brain. It is a sure remedy for piles (hemorrhoids). In the local language around Jabalpur, it is called Dudhi.

8. Eighth: Mahagauri (Tulsi or Holy Basil)

   
   

   Tulsi has seven varieties: white tulsi, black tulsi, Maruta, Davana, Kudherak, Arjak, and Shatpatra. It purifies the blood and cures heart diseases. Take it every morning except on Ekadashi.

9. Ninth: Siddhidatri (Shatavari)

   
   

   The 9th form of Durga is Siddhidatri, associated with Narayani Shatavari. It is good for strength, intelligence, and wisdom. It is an especially wonderful remedy for new mothers (e.g., after surgery or with low milk supply). A substance that boosts milk production during breast-feeding is called a galactagogue, and Shatavari is commonly used for this purpose.