It is believed that the Rudraksh plant (Botanical name, Elaeocarpus granitrus) arose from the teardrops of
Lord Shiva. The word, Rudraksh comes from two words 'Rudra', name of Lord Shiva, and 'Aksha', meaning 'tear'.
Rudraksh is close associated with Hindu mythology and astrology and its finds mention in various scriptures. It is believed that it has the capacity to neutralize the effects of malefic planets largely. Wearing of Rudraksh beads shields the wearer from sins and dangers of any kind. Rudraksh is harmless to the wearer.
Rudraksh possesses medicinal and biomedical properties. It is excellent in controlling stress, hypertension and blood pressure, and improves memory power. Due to electrical and magnetic properties, the Rudraksh initiate and effect positive change in the bioelectrical system of the human body in a life-supporting manner. It is very easy to identify a real Rudraksh from an artificial. The real one sinks in water, but duplicate does not.
There are different mukhis (faces) or the clefts or furrows recognized on the surface of the Rudraksh bead. One to thirty eight mukhis have been isolated, but normally one to fourteen mukhis is used for astrological benefits. One faced Rudraksh is considered very powerful. The five-faced mala (chain) is used for puja purposes. A 26-beaded chain is placed on head. A chain of 50 beads is worn over the heart, while a 16-beaded chain is kept on the forehead.
