The brick-red coloured dried berry of the Rudraksha tree (Elaeocarpus Ganitrus Roxb) has played a dominant role on the Indian arena for a long time now. Rudra (terrible) aksha (eye), the name connotes the effect of the seed on evil and its concomitants. According to Hindu mythology, Lord Shiva used a fire weapon called Aaghor to kill Tripura Sur, the troublesome demon. The weapon killed the demon, but temporarily blinded Shiva too, who had to shut his eyes to escape its dazzling brilliance. When Shiva opened his eyes, they were watery. Places on earth where the teardrops fell sprouted Rudraksha trees.

It is been proved beyond doubt that Rudraksha cures many illnesses including those related to blood pressure and heart. So powerful are the Rudraksha’s protective powers that it can actually protect the wearer from untimely death. Ancient sages maintained that Rudraksha provides peace and tranquility.

Types of Rudraksha

The Purans report the existence of twenty-one types of Rudrakshas. However, only fourteen types have been described. The benefits of each Rudraksha type are mentioned below:

Ekmukhi Rudraksha (one-faced Rudraksha)
This is considered to be the most pious form of Rudraksha, In fact faithful take it to be a manifestation of Lord Shiva. According to belief, people are absolved of all sins by merely glancing at this Rudraksha. This Rudraksha shall fulfill all desires made by its wearer. Apparently, the Rudraksha also provides moksha (salvation). The Rudraksha will yield positive results within a month if worshiped faithfully.

Dwimukhi Rudraksha (two-faced Rudraksha)
This Rudraksha gives relief from sorrow and other negative emotions. It provides wealth and every other conceivable happiness and convenience. This Rudraksha is beneficial for worshippers of Shiv and is used to deal with black magic and evil spirits. The wearer of this Rudraksha can easily gain control over others.

Trimukhi Rudraksha (three-faced Rudraksha)
This is an earthly manifestation of the three fires. The Fire Gods can be appeased by those who wear this Rudraksha. This Rudraksha blesses its users with money, knowledge and wisdom. This bead also protects against acute fevers.

Chaturmukhi Rudraksha (four-faced Rudraksha)
This is considered to be the manifestation of Brahmin (complete man). The person who wears this Rudraksha is blessed with greatness, riches and also acquires an exalted position. As per the writings of the Agni Puran, those wearing this bead are ensured of purity. This bead also sets unnecessary and unholy sexual desires to rest. It is known to convert atheist to believers. This Rudraksha is ideal for the weak minded as also those who are weak of body. The wearer is blessed with extraordinary success in examinations and education. This Rudraksha also helps in hypnotizing and controlling others. Consuming milk in which this Rudraksha has been boiled can cure mental illness.

Panchukhi Rudraksha (five-faced Rudraksha)
The wearer of this Rudraksha is dear to Lord Shiva. This Rudraksha eliminates all sorrows from the wearer’s life and cures many illness including inordinate sexual desires. Three beads of this Rudraksha should be stringed together and worn.

Chehmukhi Rudraksha (six-faced Rudraksha)
This Rudraksha represents Swami Kartikeya. Some scholars believe that it symbolizes Lord Ganesha. It is ideal for acquiring wisdom and learning and should be worn on the right arm. This Rudraksha helps gain control over Ridhi and Sidhi as also monumental success in business ventures. This Rudraksha destroys poverty and ensures the presence of Goddess Lakshmi. It cures hysteria, fainting and illnesses related to women.

Saptamukhi Rudraksha (seven-faced Rudraksha)
This Rudraksha represents the seven rishis and blesses its user with fame and glory as also an exalted place in public life. This bead is known to bring about affluence and prosperity.

Ashtmukhi Rudraksha (eight-faced Rudraksha)
This Rudraksha is the manifestation of Lord Ganesha and provides longevity as also the blessings and benediction of Lord Shiva. This bead frees the user from falsity and deception.

Navmukhi Rudraksha (nine-faced Rudraksha)
This Rudraksha is the symbol of Goddess Durga and Dharmaraj. The person wearing this does not fear Yamraj (God of death). It provides freedom from all kinds of sins and one can achieve almost the impossible by simply wearing this. It ensures complete control over enemies and is supposed to bless the wearer with wealth and happiness.