Introduction

Rudraksha is one of the miraculous creations of nature, where the seed is shaped by number of clefts on its surface. These clefts are known as "Mukhis", or faces. There are about 1 to 38 Mukhi rudraksha present. In most cases, 1 to 14 Mukhi rudraksha are used for astrological purpose. A particular Mukhi rudraksha is believed to encounter the malefic effects of a specific planet. This unique bead has got many splendid properties influential enough to control human behaviour and destiny. The secret lies in the wonderful electro-magnetic properties the bead invokes, when in interaction with Human aura.

Etymology of Rudraksha

Rudraksha is termed by joining the 2 words - "Rudra" and "Aksha". "Rudra" is one of the avatars of Lord Shiva and "Aksha" means tears. The legend goes that the Shiva had to counteract powerful Demons in the ongoing war against gods. When the entire destruction was settled down, Shiva opened his eyes and shed tears. The legendary tree of Rudraksha was born on the very place those tears fell. That is how Rudraksha, known as a divine bead came into existence. Technically Rudraksha are beads from the tree "Elaeocarpus Ganitrus" found mainly in South, South East Asia, Asia pacific and China.

Power of Rudraksha

Rudraksha carries within itself unique electro-magnetic properties, which in turn empowers the possessor when in touch with human body, or, even when it is safely kept in the house. Rudraksha enhances the effects of a weak planet, and streamlines the effects of a malefic one into a positive energy. Rudraksha is also known to produce heat, and can turn out to be allergic to skin in very rare cases. In such cases, a touch with the skin is not advised. Other than that, a rudraksha bead is completely harmless. Although it is advised that a competent astrologer should select a rudraksha after carefully going through ones horoscope, any selection of rudraksha bead do not harm the wearer in any case.

A rudraksha gives profound effects in the physical, mental and emotional enrichment of a person. It also empowers all to enhance their destinies and attain fulfilment in their lives. A rudraksha does not give its full effect till it has been purified and energized through rituals and puja. Any misuse of rudraksha can also cause loss of its powers. A strict precaution regime also has to be followed while wearing it. A proper Prana Pratishtha activates a rudraksha to give its immense blessings to the one wearing it.

Identification of Rudraksha

Rudrakshas are available from 1 mukhi to 21 mukhis. The five-faced Rudraksha are found extravagantly and without much difficulty. The one-faced circular Rudraksha variety is exceedingly uncommon and it is forged maximum times, so much so that the entire issue of uniqueness or forging has surfaced, only due to the 1 mukhi duplication. A kind of Rudraksha, called 1 mukhi half moon, is this cold in its place which is genuine and belong to a family tree of rudraksha. This bead is found without much difficulty and the price is also not sky-high. However, there are dealers who sell this half-moon variety, also at outrageous prices, taking advantage of the uncommonness of round 1 mukhi rudraksha. Round 1 mukhi rudraksha however is forged in umpteen forms by corrupt dealers. Many of these markings- Rudrakshas with 2,3,4,6 and 7 faces are available extravagantly and hence their prices are not exorbitant. Counterfeited rudrakshas are manufactured by etching extra lines in these lower mukhi beads to obtain the exceptional and steeply priced higher mukhi beads. However, some conscientious people forge Gauri Shankar Rudrakshas, by adhering together too little skill and consciousness. Authentic rudrakshas are also available aplenty, naturally. But it is the avarice of dealers to make more money that compels traders to deal in counterfeit beads. Also in case of atypical Rudraksha beads of higher mukhis, forges are sold by such dealers to gratify the surging demand of these beads.

It is not very difficult to distinguish an authentic Rudraksha. Due to its surging significance and value, it is manufactured synthetically also and these artificial Rudrakshas are sold in the market. Synthetic Rudrakshas used to be manufactured long ago, by employing wild berry seeds or nuts or wood. But today, this is an obsolete procedure and the Nepalese dealers of present times are making these by etching out extra lines in a lower mukhi bead to achieve a higher mukhi bead. Or else, they are shrouding extra lines to attain an exceptional lower mukhi bead and even by adhering together parts of rudraksha beads to attain another rudraksha. As a result, these forged rudrakshas look superficially like a real rudraksha, but this has to be examined more vigilantly. But in these artificial Rudrakshas, no facade can be made as genuine as the ones that can be seen in the authentic ones and can simply be noticed by a veteran eye. Here, the facet ( Mukh) delineates profound lining from the upper part to the lower portion of Rudraksha. Observing these rich lining features, one can make out a real Rudraksha. A magnifying glass needs to be used for this purpose to examine for synthetically etched lines ( which are normally very jagged) and adhered surfaces on the bead.

There are many other standards described to distinguish Rudrakshas, like the sinking and floating of Rudraksha in water and rotating between two coins. But it is not an accurate principle. Even an immature, but authentic one made from wood, tinctured with lead or by fiddling a real rudraksha, may sink. Therefore, one should not be troubled about these false philosophies. Rudraksha should be bought from an authentic dealer, who is answerable to the public, and who would acknowledge returns. Buying rudraksha is like buying gems, where buyers buy from a faithful dealer only and they need to check with previous buyers for authentic dealers and their experience of transacting with them, before coming to a conclusion to buy these beads.

Mukh of Rudraksha

A Mukh is an absolute separating line, extending from top of the seed to the base. Rudraksha comprises three parts. The top head (from where the face starts to be known as head), the middle body and the end (known as tail that is somewhat flatter). Rudrakshas ranging from 1 Mukhi and reaching upto 21 Mukhi has been discovered. At times, higher mukhis also come into sight, such as the newly discovered 27 mukhi in Nepal. However over 80% of all obtainable Rudraksha is 4 Mukhi, 5 Mukhi and 6 Mukhi. 1 Mukhi circular from Nepal is the rarest beads. Now-a-days due to gush of demand, all Rudrakshas- from 8 Mukhi and above have turned infrequent.

All the prehistoric epics of Padma Puran, Shiv Puran, Shri Mad Devi Bhagwat and Skand Puran, however refer Rudraksha only upto 14 Mukhi. Still, Rudraksha upto 21 Mukhi have been found, together with some other popular beads like Gauri Shankar (2 beads fused naturally from the tree), Ganesha (having a trunk like projection) Savar ( a Gauri Shankar having one bead with 1 Mukh), Nandi ( a bead with two horn like projection), Ved ( a bead with 4 one mukhi sawars around it ) etc. Of late a bead with 27 mukh has also been discovered.

Rudrakshas from Nepal are mostly huge in size, upto 25 mm to 30 mm in diameter and have apparent distinct lines. In contrast, Rudraksha from Indonesia are smaller in size and the lines are not so profound, but recognisable with attempts. These Indonesian beads are generally used to make Malas (stringed ornament worn round the neck) and have diameters from 12mm, reaching upto 44mm.

Most of these malas, which one usually sees, are 5 Mukhi in 4mm to 10mm diameter in size, but lesser quantities of 4,6,7 & 8 Mukhi Malas in small sizes are also made after arranging the beads. Rudrakshas come in various colours, such as white, red, brown, yellow & black. The most popularly available Rudraksha is brown in colour. After dousing it in oil and after prolonged usage, all Rudrakshas turn deep brown or even black in colour.

Rudraksha is a very powerful bead and with appropriate maintenance, it can survive for thousands of years. The bead has done good to humankind in several ways and lot of research has been exercised to find out how the Rudraksha actually functions.

Some research work indicates towards inducive power, bipolarity etc., but it is normally thought that the potential of Rudraksha cannot be evaluated with accessible instruments but can be sensed by everybody who wears it- both physically and by mental configuration.

If ornaments of Lord Shiva can be analysed, one will find that all of them represent powers like ash from the funeral pyre, tiger skin, snakes and river Ganges, moon, poison in the neck (Neel Kantha), Mala of Human Skeleton & the flower from the enrapturing Dhatura tree. All these signal towards the fact that Rudraksha must be a very powerful bead.

The basic question now lies to uncover what exact power does Rudraksha possess. After interrelating with a number of groups of people, there is solid reason to consider that Rudraksha renders beneficial results to every person who wears it. One can be healed from various illnesses or receive wanted materialistic or sacred gains. The Power or Shakti of Rudraksha is an integration of power from --

1. Providential characteristics by blessings of numerous Gods and Goddesses.

2. Physical impact on the body, which sends neuro signals to make the mind tension-free and thereby proving the functioning, which can be termed as "Self Empowerment".

Different Mukhi Rudrakshas have different impressions on humans & one can wear all kinds of Rudraksha, either individually or collectively.

Types of Rudrakshas

Types of Rudrakshas : Rudraksha are available in different sizes and forms. The Mukhi decides the characteristics of a specific Rudraksha. The Rudraksha bead has a top portion from where the line originated, this is called "Brahma". The middle portion having the largest diameter that is known as "Vishnu" and the bottom portion where the lines end is known as "Shiva". Hence every Rudraksha is originated with that of almighty features of the 3 main GOD; Generator (Brahma), Operator (Vishnu) and Destructor (Mahesh or Shiva).

Rudraksha are classified into 27 different types on the basis of mukhis. In ancient epics like "Shiva Purana", "Srimad Devi Bhagwat" and "Padma Puran", Rudraksha upto 14 Mukhis have been described along with their effects and purposes for which they are useful. Higher Mukhi Rudraksha from 15 to 27 Mukhis have also been found in the later texts like "Katyayani Purana". Beads higher than 27 Mukhi have also been found in recent years. There are other Rudraksha like Gauri Shankar, Ganesha, Sawar and Trijuti.

Rudraksha Power Combinations

Rudraksha of various Mukhis are merged according to their attributes to produce numerous powerful combinations which have been examined to be pretty effective. Thousands of testimonies confirm that these combinations can modify life, eliminate miseries and offer victory in business, profession or personal life.

Moon Bracelet : These are bracelets made of 9 beads of 2 mukhi rudraksha with pearls and silver spacers. This amalgamation appeases the malicious effects of planet moon and appeases anger and command over emotional behaviour. The moon bracelet is apt for people who need to compose emotions and maintain serenity of mind and harmony with those around them.

Prosperity Bracelet : This is a kind of bracelet with two beads, each of 6 mukhi and 7 mukhi and one bead of 8 mukhi, with gems and silver spacers for amplifying wealth and money flow and for triumph.

Harmony Bracelet : This is a grouping of Gauri Shankar with 4 beads of 2 mukhi and pearls and silver spacers for nonviolence, gentleness, meditative, inner contentment and tranquility. Harmony bracelet is beneficial to meditate with, sleep with for a good night`s sleep and inner adjustment. It is something to wear when life becomes too chaotic, to maintain emotional equilibrium and synchronisation, unison and oneness amongst others. It is recommended for men and women looking for harmony in relationships.

Siddha Bracelet : Siddha bracelet is a synergistic combination of one bead each of 2 mukhi upto 14 mukhi small rudraksha beads of Javanese origin. It is worn for Dharma ( religion), Artha (wealth), Kama (desires) and Moksha ( liberation).

Surya power : Surya power is a 12 mukhi large rudraksha used to achieve potency, vividness and vivacity of the sun. It is worn to augment leadership and administrative traits. It is also used for eradicating vexations, distrust and trepidation and heightening self-image and motivation. Surya power is recommended for men and women desiring the above qualities. It is suggested specially for ministers, politicians, administrators, businessmen and executives.

Shiva Shakti : Shiva Shakti utilises Gauri Shankar rudraksha for unison, tranquility, synchronisation and holiness. It unfolds the universe of consciousness and brings one nearer to God. It is recommended for men and women looking for a tuneful life and increased devotion for God. It is also suggested for those who desire a perfect life partner.

Hanuman Kavach : It is an amalgamation of 11 mukhi rudraksha with a charged Chirmi kavach, providing security to the wearer from any kind of hurt or negativity. Hanuman kavach emits an unconquerable aura to the wearer and shields him/her from black magic, charms, negativity and psychic attacks.

Half moon Shiva Pendant : Half Moon Shiva Pendant uses 1 Mukhi rudraksha, ushering the divine feeling of renunciation and impassiveness. It gives the power to mediate and understand God. For those who wish amplified devotion for God, they should wear it for mediation, and Sadhana.

Health Bracelet : Health bracelet with 3 mukhi and 5 mukhi beads are employed to resolve the past and present karma and negative patterns and influences from inside and outside. It furnishes peace of mind and diminishes stress. It is also recommended for people with chronic blood pressure, cholesterol and diabetes.

Victory Bracelet : Victory bracelet is an amalgamation of 1 or more beads of 16 mukhi rudraksha ( of Javanese or Nepali origin) for good luck, affluence and conquests. It is also suggested for men and women seeking success at all levels.

Saraswati Power : The Saraswati amalgamation is made of 4 Mukhi and 6 Mukhi Rudraksha and is specifically designed for students, intellectuals, artists and writers and it augments will power, wit, intelligence, concentration and lends the wearer creative wisdom, learning and knowledge. It has to be worn as a necklace or wristlet.

Mohini Power : This Power combination possesses one bead of 13 Mukhi Rudraksha, symbolising Lord Indra and Lord Kamdev and two beads of 6 Mukhi Rudraksha. It is basically meant for men/women who wish to augment their magnetism, desirability, appeal and vividness.

Unity Power : This Special Pendant with one bead of Gauri Shankar and two beads of 2 Mukhi Rudraksha ushers in tranquility, synchronisation, cheerfulness and comfort within the family. Unity power reconciles the whole atmosphere surrounding the wearer. This compilation improves superior marital relationship or marriage expectations for bachelors. It is also used by couples desiring children.

Protection Bracelet : This bracelet has a Goddess Durga Rudraksha 9 Mukhi, Lord Vishnu Rudraksha 10 Mukhi and Lord Hanuman Rudraksha 11 Mukhi. Protection bracelet assures safeguard to wearer from negativity, wicked spirits and psychic attacks. It is perfect for healers also. The user is blessed with loads of dynamism, powers, vigour and courage. 10 and 11 Mukhi rudrakshas also appease all planets. Mercury beads heighten the effect of amalgamation.

Rudraksha for Health and Self Empowerment

The tears of Lord Shiva that constitute the Rudraksha beads, are the original Vedic beads of power worn by the Indian Yogis for time immemorial, allowing them to sustain health, attain self-empowerment and live the daring life on the path to enlightenment and deliverance.

The electromagnetic properties of the Rudraksha beads heightens concentration power, and mental resilience. Due to these similar dimensions, it was discovered that wearing these beads around the heart reduced and restricted stress levels, blood pressure and hypertension, resulting in the feeling of harmony and composure. Rudraksha beads were found to be supreme for focused Meditation and other Spiritual Practices.

Historically, positive effects have been demonstrated among the wearers. Neuro-physiology, Personality, and Physical Health has ensued in their being used extensively by people of Eastern Cultures- in India, China and Japan by Hindus, Buddhists and followers of Zen.

It is noteworthy to believe that natural beads of vegetable matter from the Rudraksha Tree influences the Human Neuro-Physiology, as described in Vedic Literature. However, modern scientific study has again found Vedic Knowledge to be correct.

Though the powers of Rudraksha have been known as a fact for thousands of years, it is only since the late 1980s that they have come to prominent light, principally after the research done by a group of scientists of the Institute of Technology University in Benaras, India and through various testimonies and experiences.

A mixed study to explore the Biomedical Implications of Rudraksha was carried on with the Departments of Biochemistry, Electrical Engineering, Psychiatry, General Medicine and Psychology. This study had acknowledged and established the power and consequences of Rudraksha scientifically with reproducible solutions.

Research has confirmed that Rudraksha possesses authoritative Electromagnetic, Para-magnetic and Inductive Properties, that differs from the different Mukhis or facets (the different number of divisions found on the surface of each Bead ). They had also discovered that wearing or performing Japa with a particular Mukhi or set of Mukhis of Rudraksha Beads, had produced precise electrical impulses that are sent to the brain through the process of galvanic skin response, energising certain brain centres that transports information.

This Bioelectric stimulation influences upon the Biochemical System in the brain, producing a positive force upon the doings of neurotransmitters, dopamine and serotonin levels that is manifested by the positive makeover in one`s traits, frame of mind, viewpoint, appeal and poise of the wearer.

It was also discovered people wearing Rudraksha Beads were able to feel lessened stress reaction to unanticipated levels that were generally achievable only with nonstop dose of tranquilisers.

In scientific terms, the Rudraksha Beads are Di-electric, because they stock electrical energy and have magnetic dimensions that alter with the different Mukhi Beads. Properties found underlying in the Rudraksha Beads include- Electromagnetism, Para-magnetism, Dia-magnetism and Dynamic Polarity or the capacity to change polarity.

When Rudraksha beads are worn and Rudraksha malas are rotated during Japas, they overlap and combine with the Human Body at a hushed, understated level of Consciousness. Due to their Di-electric and Magnetic Properties, the Rudraksha beads kick off and results in positive change in the Bio-Electrical System.

Hence, Rudraksha`s outcome transports the wearer into the alpha state of current moment, similar to other spiritual disciplines. They tutor every person the path to self empowerment, unafraid life, enlightenment and deliverance.

The alpha state produced in the brain promotes confidence and innate potency of the wearer profoundly and as a result heart beat, circulation, function of endocrinal glands, activity of neurons and respiration are normalised within the physical body.

Confirming scientific evidence for these statements are again ascertained in the published research papers by Dr. Subas Rai, describing the valuable powers of Rudraksha by the merit of electrical and magnetic properties that impresses upon the Central Nervous System, Autonomic, Sympathetic and Para Sympathetic Nervous Systems and other organ systems also.

It was established that by wearing Rudraksha, one can control the heartbeat and it acts upon with positive effect on Blood Pressure, stress, Anxiety, Depression, Palpitations. Rudraksha beads have anti-ageing attributes, based on their Electromagnetism.

Generations who have worn authentic Rudraksha beads have continually established that they had received substantial ease from the exhausting effects of high blood pressure, stress, hypertension, depression and other mental problems, including neurotic conditions. Leading Eastern Cultures and Traditions ascribe this relief from pain and suffering to the wearing of `Tears of Lord Shiva`.

In the evolution of spiritual consciousness, the Holy Rudraksha beads are based in the Absolute Field of Consciousness and reveals its presence in the Relative Field, as an everlasting inducing mechanism, to be recognised by Mankind and Womankind, as one becomes aware of higher states of consciousness in each existence.

Understanding this Knowledge manifests the reality of a memory of Rudraksha in everybody`s spiritual evolution from past lives that can be activated in the present life.

It has also been discovered that even by seeing or touching the Rudraksha, the activated memory influences upon men and women and children and travails throughout the populations in the world- from 4 years of age to people in their fifties and older.

What one feels, thinks, hears, tastes, or perceives, everything depends upon the restrained flow of bio-electric current. This flow of bioelectric current happens due to the continuation of potential differences or the various energy levels between diverse parts of the body.

As long as the flow of bio-electricity is unrestrained, the body functions normally and one has the feeling of being in control. Any action that can generate stress or malfunction can throw the flowing activity and the electronic circuit of the body & mind totally haywire. Human beings and every living being is prone to stress unceasingly in the unremitting fight for endurance and affluence.

Today`s world rebounding with intense competition, the stress levels have heightened massively. Nearly every individual faces problems of stress and stress-related sicknesses like insomnia, alcoholism, depression, maladjustments, heart diseases, skin diseases etc. Any doctor will affirm nearly 95% of the illnesses are psychosomatic or stress-related (i.e.) developing from mind.

When is stress or maladjustment is at its peak, consequent stress signals are sent to the central nervous system. An amplified activity or abnormality of neurons and neuro transmitters is noticed. The degree of change will then depend upon the cause and particular case.

When such a phenomenon happens and it goes on incessantly- the smooth flow of electrical signals all over the mind-body interface is interrupted and it makes one feel awkward and one is not able to perform with our total competence.

The blood circulation turns imperfect and one senses several sicknesses. Regrettably this is an everyday occurrence. Rudraksha beads act as a soothing anchor. Rudraksha beads` electrical dimensions can be extensively classed into-

1) Resistance- There is an uninterrupted and understated flow of bio-electrical signal all through the body due to potential difference between the parts of the Body. Rudraksha beads of particular mukhis or facets have a formulated factor of resistance. It is measured in ohms. When these beads reject the flow of bio-electrical impulses, a certain ampere of current flow is rendered, depending on the factor of resistance. This occurs one behind the other with heartbeat, smoothening it and sending out particular impulses to the brain. These impulses energise specific positive brain chemicals, making one feel improved, more surefooted, self-contained and more dynamic. It has been noticed that certain mukhis or facets of rudraksha beads emit specific signals, acting upon a particular brain chemical and as a result producing particular positive changes in one`s persona. It is well demonstrated that the frame of mind and everybody`s personality is governed almost wholly by the brain, it`s working and that of the central nervous system.

2) Capacitance or the di-electric properties- Rudraksha beads act as dielectric ( i.e.) a store house of electrical energy. This characteristic of Rudraksha makes it capable in steadying and grounding the bio-electric current. The values are measured in units of Farad. This characteristic is very useful in checking hyperactivity, palpitations of heart, streamlining heartbeat etc. due to stress. When there is heightened physical activity, the heart beats faster and the overall action of hormones and nervous system amplifies. This induces in increased energy levels or increase in potential difference. Due to this, the degree of bioelectric current grows further. Rudraksha beads acting as di-electric, stores this surplus bio-electric energy, thereby smoothening the overall activity to normality.

3) Inductance- Rudraksha beads have permanent magnetic properties through inductance. They have been found to emit inductive vibrations with frequencies measured in units of Henry ( Volt Second/Ampere). This perhaps is the cause why masses have felt improved even when a Rudraksha bead does not come into contact with them physically.

4)Magnetic Properties- Rudraksha beads have both para-magnetic and dia-magnetic, with the most crucial characteristic of dynamic polarity. One is possibly aware of the enhancing therapeutic properties of magnets. Magnetic healing is becoming exceedingly popular lately and everybody who have been using magnets for curing, have been reaping the benefits and have experienced overall betterment and renewal. Rudraksha beads holds back most of the properties of magnets, but it is uneven in one facet- regarding the ability to alter it`s polarity or the property of dynamic polarity. The introductory way of curing is based on the fact that when the pathway of arteries and veins that carry blood to and from the heart to all parts of the body is obstructed or reduced because of various reasons, numerous sicknesses advances unnoticeably. Blood transports oxygen and energy to various parts of the body and purifies its wastes. Any disturbance of the smooth flow of blood circulation is sure to cause illnesses.

Human beings feel pain and restlessness due to improper blood circulation. Every cell in the blood as well as arteries and veins are charged either positively or negatively. Magnets have polarities both in positive (=) and negative (-).

When magnets are distributed to various part of the body, the reverse poles of the magnets and that of cells get attracted and there is an enlargement of the pathway. The arteries and veins open up to assist smoothened blood circulation. When there is a reorganisation of blood circulation, most of the ailments get cured and one feels recovered and revitalised.

But with magnets the polarity is preset. When magnets are brought near a particular part of the body it opens up only those sections of veins and arteries where the polarities harmonise. Thus a total healing and reorganising of blood circulation cannot be guaranteed. One senses mending and feels better.

Rudraksha has the ability to alter its polarity- the characteristic of dynamic polarity. This in turn happens by merit of its characteristic- diamagnetism. Dia-magnetism is termed as the capability of any material to gain momentary magnetic property in presence of an external magnetic field. The polarity of the charge thus inducted is in reverse to that of the external field stimulating the charge. Blood circulation and heartbeat mechanically induces a magnetic field all round the body and especially the heart region. Bio-electricity mechanically gives rise to bio-magnetism, depending on the polarity of the inducted magnetic field.