Frequently Asked Questions About Rudraksha – Project Sanatana

Understanding Rudraksha & Its Importance

Rudraksha holds immense spiritual significance and has been used for centuries in various traditions. These sacred beads, obtained from the Rudraksha tree, are revered for their spiritual and healing properties. However, many misconceptions exist regarding their usage, maintenance, and care.

At Project Sanatana, we ensure that every Rudraksha is of high quality, properly authenticated, and spiritually energized, so you receive the maximum benefits. This guide aims to answer common queries about Rudraksha and provide clarity on its proper use.

What is Rudraksha?

Rudraksha are dried seeds of a tree, botanically known as Elaeocarpus Ganitrus, which mostly grows in select locations of southeast Asia, predominantly in the upper Himalayan mountain range of the Indian subcontinent. The word Rudraksha literally means “tears of Shiva”.

Rudraksha are very supportive in maintaining physical and mental balance. Rudraksha can help reduce blood pressure, calm one’s nerves and improve the health of one’s skin. Some of the subtler benefits ascribed to Rudraksha include enhancement of intuition, assistance in meditation, cleansing of the aura, and providing protection against negative energies.

  1. Physical characteristics and experience shows that Indonesian beads of 1 mukhi, 2 mukhi and 3 mukhi are effective and can be used comfortably if Nepal variety is not available or is out of reach due to cost considerations. (1 mukhi Indonesian is the only and the best option considering 1 mukhi Nepal variety which is difficult to get).
  2. Beyond 3 mukhi the clarity of lines and distribution of inner compartments start getting jumbled up and effectiveness may be questionable. One can wear higher mukhi Indonesian beads in a symbolic way in large number and some wearers have testified them for good results also.
  3. Another advantage of higher mukhi Indonesian beads is their purity as it is not easy to duplicate an Indonesian Rudraksha as the lines are only on the surface of the bead. Nepal beads have deeper lines  and can be carved artificially which is a common practice in case of higher mukhi Rudraksha (beyond 8 mukhi), unless these are sourced from a reliable supplier.

Rudraksha beads come in various types based on the number of mukhis, ranging from 1 to 21 and beyond. Each type has its unique properties and benefits.

Yes, we offer a certificate of authenticity for all our Rudraksha beads. You can choose to add a certificate to your order for an additional ₹500 per Rudraksha. The certificate verifies the bead’s mukhi (face) count and genuineness, issued by a trusted testing lab. If selected, it will be delivered along with your product.

Anyone, irrespective of age, gender, physical condition, culture, ethnicity, geographical or religious background, at any stage in life, can wear the Rudraksha offered here. It can be especially beneficial when worn by children, students and the elderly.

To preserve the spiritual and physical integrity of Rudraksha, follow these care guidelines:

  • Avoid excessive water exposure – If your Rudraksha gets wet, let it air dry or use a cotton cloth.
  • Apply oil periodically – After drying, apply a small amount of edible oil (such as almond or sandalwood oil) to prevent cracks.
  • Keep separate malas for chanting and daily wear – A dedicated mala for japa (chanting) ensures maximum energy retention.
  • Avoid using soap or chemicals – Do not wear your Rudraksha while bathing, as soaps and shampoos can damage its surface.
  • Do not soak in milk or ghee – This can lead to fungal growth and deterioration of the bead.
  • Store properly – When not wearing, keep your Rudraksha in a clean, sacred space.

By following these simple steps, your Project Sanatana Rudraksha will remain energized and effective for years to come.

  1. A kantha of 5 mukhi large sized beads (above 28 mm India) is good for meditation. This should be beaded in wool with 28, 32 or 36 number of beads. A powerful kantha beaded in copper wire without any metal caps is also a good option.
  2. As per Akshmalakopnishad, three types of wires (copper, silver and gold) woven to a single strand, and stringing a mala using this wire will help one to achieve a higher level of meditative power. There is no need for metal caps. For a higher level of meditation and to reach a near zero thought level of meditation, a combination using large sized beads of 3M (2 beads), 5M (21 beads), 9M (1 bead), 11M (1 bead), 14M (1 bead), Gaurishankar (1 bead) and 1 M (1bead) should be used to make a higher level Dhyan Yog mala.
  3. Long-term usage of a 14 mukhi over the forehead, particularly during meditation is said to give excellent concentration.
  4. Rudraksha mala is like a store house of energy, which helps you in keeping powerful Urja arising out of meditation or good deeds within yourself. Mention of several kinds of meditation dresses has been made in our scriptures (Ref to Chap. 7) for details or read Shivpuran and Devibhagwatam. You have to evaluate a practical way of handling or wearing it and also to see the level at which you would like to operate.

If you take cold water baths and are not using any chemical soap, it is especially good for the water to flow over it and upon your body. But if you are using chemical soaps and warm water, it becomes brittle and will crack after some time, so it is best to avoid wearing it at such times. Please keep the Rudraksha on a cloth while taking a bath.

Yes! Rudraksha can be highly beneficial for children and students, offering enhanced concentration, improved memory, reduced stress, and spiritual grounding. However, keep in mind:

  • Children should be mature enough to handle the Rudraksha with care.
  • Supervision is recommended for younger kids.
  • Lighter, smaller Rudraksha beads are preferable for daily wear.
  • Consulting a Rudraksha expert can help determine the most suitable bead for a child’s needs.

Rudraksha supports focus and inner balance, but it is not a replacement for discipline, study habits, or a healthy lifestyle.

Absolutely! Women can wear Rudraksha at all times, including during menstruation. There is no scriptural restriction against it—this is a common misconception. Many Hindu goddesses are depicted wearing Rudraksha beads, signifying their universal spiritual power.

Wearing Project Sanatana Rudraksha can enhance inner strength and provide protection, regardless of gender.

There is no need to condition the Rudraksha when you receive it, as it is already conditioned.

It is recommended to condition the Rudraksha every 6 months on the summer solstice (21 June), and winter solstice (21 December).

When conditioning the Rudraksha for the first time, immerse it in clarified butter or ghee for 24 hours, then soak it in full-fat milk for the following 24 hours. Rinse with water and wipe with a clean cloth.

After conditioning it the first time, when conditioning it during the solstice, immerse the Rudraksha in clarified butter or ghee for three days and smear it with Vibhuti or sacred ash. This will help to retain the vibrancy of Rudraksha.

  1. Arrange following items to prepare Panchamrit (Panchtirtha)
  2. Pure water (preferably mixed with small amount of Ganges or other holy river water) 50 ml, Milk 50 ml, Ghee (clarified butter) 20 ml and a lamp to light it (diya or deepak), Curd (yoghurt plain) 20 ml, Honey 20 ml.
  3. Mix all the above to make Panchamrit Also arrange small quantities of the following: Camphor, Sandalwood powder or paste, Rice grains Flowers, preferably white, and Water.
  4. Steps to be followed:
    it facing East or North in a comfortable posture.
    Light the lamp with Ghee.
    Wash Rudraksha, using water and then wipe it clean with a cloth. Place Rudraksha in a tray.
    Pour Panchamrit over Rudraksha using a spoon, and chant with each pouring Om Namah Shivaya. Finish all panchamrit in this way. Wash Rudraksha with water and clean using a cloth. Prepare a clean tray and put petals of flowers on the tray. Place Rudraksha on the tray and then chant the following mantra:
    “Sadyojat mantra”

    “Aum sadyojaatam prapadyaami sadyojataaya namo namah bhave bhavenaati bhave,
    bhavasmaam bhavodbhavaye namah”

     

    Offer Sandalwood paste to Rudraksha and then light incense sticks and camphor and offer flowers to Rudraksha. Now, chant the following mantra:
    “Aghor mantra” 

    “Aum aghorebhyo agh ghorebhyo ghor ghor tarebhyo,
    Sarvebhyah sarve sharvebhyo namaste astu rudra rupebhyah “

    Offer rice to the Rudraksha and chant the following mantra:
    “Tatpurush mantra”

    “Aum tat purushaye vidhmahe, mahadevaye dheemahi
    Tanno rudraha prachodayat”

    Now chant “Om Namah Shivaya” 11 times or chant Rudraksha beej mantra of each mukhi (if available with you) and then wear Rudraksha. Pray to Lord Shiva and express your wish, if any.

If for some reason, you cannot wear the Rudraksha, it should be kept safely, wrapped in a natural cloth like cotton or silk. Since Rudraksha are natural seeds with a unique composition, it is best to store them in vessels made of natural materials. Containers made of copper, gold or silver may also be used.

  1. Logically there is no need to take off the Rudraksha from the body during any of the above activity. Shastra like Shivpuran prohibit eating of non-vegetarian food or taking of alcohol or even eating of onion, garlic etc. for the wearer. Other scriptures are silent about it.
  2. However, a compromised suggestion is to take the mala off the body during any of the above activity and wear it again after the activity is over. Most people follow this advice, although not fully convinced with the argument.
  3. Author’s assumption is that if Rudraksha powder or extract is being taken orally by any person, as a herbal medicine, then the above restrictions imposed have some basis but for simply wearing Rudraksha over the body this restriction may not apply. However, tradition always overtakes logic and hence there is no harm in following the age old advice — take it off while doing these activities.
  4. One argument in favor of abstaining from Non-vegetarian food or alcohol etc is their coming in the category of Rajasi food (in contrast to spiritually desirable Satvik food) One who takes Rajasi food may become slave of his/her body senses and cannot focus on meditation or pure stable thought process. As Rudraksha is used for jap and dhyan yog, intake of Satvik food is always recommended, even based on logic.
  5. Some wearers have experienced that after wearing Rudraksha, they have switched to strict vegetarian diet and even avoid alcohol.

There are no strict scriptural restrictions regarding sexual activity while wearing Rudraksha. The decision is often a matter of personal preference and belief. Some practitioners choose to remove their Rudraksha during intercourse as a sign of respect or to avoid feeling conflicted. 

On the other hand, for those who view sex as a natural and spiritual exchange of energy, keeping the Rudraksha on might be acceptable. Ultimately, it’s about understanding your spiritual connection and making choices that align with your values and comfort.

There are no strict scriptural rules prohibiting sexual activity while wearing Rudraksha. Some prefer removing it as a sign of respect, while others continue wearing it as a part of their spiritual practice. The decision is entirely personal and should be based on your connection with the beads.

  • There is no restriction imposed by any of our holy scripture However, as per the tradition prevailing, all articles symbolising power or having source of energy should be taken off the body (like gemstones, Rudraksha, yantras etc) while visiting places like a funeral ground.

Yes! Rudraksha is universal and can be worn by anyone, regardless of religion or background. These sacred beads are spiritual tools meant to guide seekers on their journey, offering protection, mental clarity, and inner peace.

At Project Sanatana, we believe that spirituality transcends religious boundaries, and everyone is welcome to experience the power of Rudraksha.

  • Wash your Rudraksha daily – Let clean water run over it for a few seconds, then pat dry.
  • Apply oil once a month – This maintains shine and longevity.
  • Wear consistently – For maximum benefits, wear Rudraksha continuously, even while sleeping.
  • Keep Rudraksha close – If not wearing, store it in a clean box near your sleeping area.
  • Energize with prayers – Chant “Om Namah Shivaya” or the bead’s respective mantra daily.
  • Visit spiritual places – Take your Rudraksha to temples or meditation centers to charge them with positive energy.

At Project Sanatana, our Rudrakshas are already energized, ensuring you receive their full spiritual benefits from the moment you wear them.

  • Copper is a metal that can create a certain energy and assist in meditation. Bringing it in contact with the body can help to strengthen and stabilize one’s energy system.

    If you are tying a knot on either side of the Rudraksha, care must be taken not to tie it too tight as this could make the inside of the Rudraksha crack. If the inside crumbles because of the pressure, the rudraksha should not be worn. Also, make sure not to cup the Rudraksha.

  • While Rudraksha is known for its positive effects, some individuals may initially feel discomfort due to energy adjustments. If this happens:

    • Remove the Rudraksha for a day or two.
    • Store it in a clean, sacred space.
    • When wearing it again, do so in a temple or after meditation.
    • Chant mantras for a few minutes to harmonize with its energy.

    Most people adapt quickly, and any discomfort fades with time. If sensitivity persists, consider wearing it around your wrist instead of the neck.

  • The effects of Rudraksha vary depending on the individual. However, general observations include:

    • Aura stabilization – Almost immediate upon wearing.
    • Physical health improvements – Can take 20+ days.
    • Stress & anxiety reduction – Typically 40+ days.
    • Positive changes in life circumstances – Around 60+ days.

    For best results, wear authentic, energized Rudraksha from Project Sanatana consistently, with faith and proper intention.

  • Keeping fake or damaged Rudraksha is not advised, as inauthentic beads lack spiritual energy. Dispose of them respectfully in a river or sacred water body. At Project Sanatana, we guarantee the authenticity of every Rudraksha we offer.

  • For meditation, a 5 Mukhi Rudraksha mala is highly recommended. Other powerful combinations include:

    • Kantha mala – Large 5 Mukhi beads strung in wool or copper wire.
    • Advanced meditation mala – A mix of 3, 5, 9, 11, 14 Mukhi beads, along with a Gaurishankar Rudraksha.
    • 14 Mukhi Rudraksha – Worn on the forehead for deep concentration.

    At Project Sanatana, we provide Rudraksha malas designed for deep meditation and spiritual growth.

  • To purify and energize your Rudraksha, perform a simple puja:

    1. Prepare Panchamrit (milk, honey, ghee, yogurt, and sugar).
    2. Wash the Rudraksha with clean water.
    3. Apply sandalwood paste and light incense.
    4. Chant “Om Namah Shivaya” or the Rudraksha’s Beej mantra.
    5. Offer prayers with devotion.

    Performing this puja periodically enhances the spiritual power of your Rudraksha.

    1. Aura becomes powerful soon after a Rudraksha comes in contact with the body, in other words it becomes sharp and bigger. As we know all the three layers of the body starting from bones, muscles/ flesh and skin, get disturbed aura if affected by any disease or negative emotions. When Rudraksha comes in contact with the body, these aura layers become stabilized almost immediately, however, long lasting results and recovery from diseases, if any, may take place after some time. Correct selection and proper wearing of Rudraksha helps in balancing of chakras. Various trials and effort is required to balance these chakras, including chanting of proper mantras or by getting blessing of different Gods/ Goddesses who bless the specific chakras.
    2. It can be said that for physical disorders a minimum time of 20 days is required to feel and experience the change, and for reducing level of anxiety or stress about 40 days are optimum. For change of luck and removal of obstacles one needs to constantly wear a Rudraksha, for 60 days to notice its positive effects. Anxiety and fear is diminished and effects of evil eye, jealousy and black magic almost disappear immediately.
    3. The above time frame is just approximate and varies from person to person and is grossly dependent on situations. These beads are not magical, however the wearer starts taking thoughtful decisions and thus starts reaping its benefits within the specified time frame. If no effects are visible then one should try using more number of recommended beads or using higher mukhi and powerful beads. Through this process of trial we try to invoke divine blessings using Rudraksha. Thus the wearer has to conduct experiments with himself.
    4.  
    1.  Rudraksha beads or mala should be washed with water on a daily basis. Just keep your beads or mala below a water tap for a few seconds and then pad-dry or wear directly. Apply any edible oil once in a month over the beads for better shine and longer life. As these beads work on the principle of touch, physical cleaning and appearance of the beads is also important. If the beads get dried over time, they look lifeless and may not give desired results. Whenever you feel that results expected from Rudraksha are not coming then increase the frequency of washing to twice or even thrice in a day.
    2.  Rudraksha should be worn for longer periods and wear them even at night during sleep, provided your sleep is not disturbed. If wearing a Gaurishankar or Sawar, it must be removed at night otherwise the bead may get damaged. Beads should not be kept far away from you and keep then in a clean box or container at a distance not more than a meter from you. If taken out at night, you may wear them immediately on waking up with chanting of “Om Namah Shivaya” or beej mantra. Alternatively, you may wear them after taking bath.
    3. It has been observed that if Rudraksha are blessed by regular abhishek or pooja particularly on special occasions of holy festivals then the wearer gets better results. Whenever you visit a temple or a famous shrine of any religious order, or your Guru’s or other divine ashram, all charged with devotional energies (like a Gurudwara, Shirdi Samadhi Mandir, Jain temple, dargah, any pilgrim centre, a holy river or mountain or a meditation centre) just concentrate your attention on your Rudraksha and chant “Om Namah Shivaya” or beej mantra and pray for positive energies to bless you. If permissible wash your Rudraksha with water and touch the energy source to get these blessed.

    1. Rudraksha beads hold deep spiritual significance and can offer a range of benefits when used with the right understanding. While there are guidelines for wearing and maintaining them, the emphasis should be on respect and intention rather than strict rules. Regardless of age, gender, or cultural background, Rudraksha serves as a spiritual tool that can support your journey, offering protection and guidance.

      Ultimately, your intention and connection matter most when integrating Rudraksha into your life. With proper care and a sincere approach, these sacred beads can enhance both your inner strength and overall well-being.