rudraksha benefits

Spiritual texts and mythological lore is incomplete without mentioning the significance of rudraksha beads in the inner transformation of a human being. Two words make up Rudraksha, Rudra, and Aksha, loosely translating to tears of Shiva. 

But where do rudraksha beads grow? 

A rudraksha bead is the fruit of Elaeocarpus ganitrus, a broad-leaved evergreen tree of South East Asia. They initially look like blueberry beads because of their inedible exterior but take the form of a prayer bead after drying. 

The rudraksha is not a contemporary fad but has been a part of holy Hindu scriptures like Bhaqat Puran, Padma Puranam, and Shiva Purana. Ancient sages recommend its use in japa, i.e., repeated prayer or mantra chanting. In some scriptures, Rudra is the one who removes misery from the believer’s life and turns sorrowful tears into joy.