Cosmetics, Costumes and Ornaments in Ancient India
by Remadevi. O. | 2009 | 54,177 words
This page relates ‘Use of Kasturi (Musk)’ of the study on cosmetics, costumes and ornaments of ancient India based on Sanskrit sources. Chapter one deals with cosmetics and methods of enhancing beauty; Chapter two deals with costumes, garments and dresses; Chapter three deals with ornaments for humans and animals. Each chapter deals with their respective materials, types, preparation and trade, as prevalent in ancient Indian society.
1.9. Use of Kastūrī (Musk)
Kastūrī (Musk—Moschus moschiferus) is a sweet smelling substance extracted from the navel of musk deer. Mṛganābhi and Mṛgamada are another two names of Kastūrī, as recorded in Amarakośa[1]. Besides these names, Dhanvantarī-nighaṇṭu[2], lists five synonyms -Mṛgāṇḍaja, Mārjārī, Madanī, Gandhacelī and Vedamukhyā. Regarding its properties, the texts describe that Kastūrī is bitter and pungent in taste. It is anti-toxic and it pacifies the deranged Kapha and Vāta. According to Rājavallabha-nighaṇṭu[3], Kastūrī is beneficial for the treatment of vomiting, fever and Raktapitta. It removes the bad odour. The text refers to another variety of Kastūrī namely Latā Kastūrī, which is cold and serves to cure mouth diseases.
Footnotes and references:
[1]:
II.6.129
[3]:
p.135