Guest guest Report post Posted August 24, 2006 Pranams I really need some qualified input on how I treat my collector size beads which arrived from India from puja ceremony, where some had some suffered surface attack of white fungus attack, (they had been packed in sealed plastic after puja wrapped with bilva leaves so the moisture had caused some fungal growth) I immediately soaked and cleaned beads with natural brown soap water and fresh toothbrush and flushed with clean water and let the beads dry thoroughly. They show no exterior sign of damage. However, I am worried if I just apply sandalwood oil on surface, that some fungus spores could have survived inside the beads, and if I dont soak beads in oil, the fungus could perhaps start growing slowly inside the beads and destroy them from within until I found out and it was then too late. I wonder if pure sandalwood oil has strong antifungal properties useful for this purpose? I would need to obtain at least 200ml. I do have neem oil, which has STRONG antifungal properties, but Chandrashekharji advised against it, and I also have some concerns, because of the strong smell and characteristics of this oil. Also because I dont know how this oil will affect the beads in other ways. Then there is the traditional mustard and also sesame oil, but I still need to know if these oils will be able to disinfect the beads adequately from within from any fungus. These beads are some very special higher mukhi collector beads, and PRICELESS to me so I really need to know what is best to do. Chandrashekhar Prabhuji, if you are reading this, I hope for your reply! ~ Ole sacred-objects, "alstrup" <alstrup wrote: > > > Dear Chandrashekharji, > > Unfortunately I dont have enough pure Sandalwood oil here right now to > soak all my new beads after the soap/brush/ water cleaning. Will it > suffice to oil the beads on the surface? What is the advantage of > soaking, that the oil penetrates deep into the bead? If so, for how long > should the beads be soaked for best effect? I do have the sesame oil, > but I am worried that the beads will assimilate the sesame smell and I > want to avoid that. What do you think? > > Input from others with practical experience of this is highly welcome! > > Thanks, > > Ole > > > sacred-objects, chandrashekhar phadke > chphadke@ wrote: > > > > Dear Ole, > > > > Thank you very much for your mail. I am of the opinion that the Sandle > Wood oil may be better than that of the Sesame oil due to its strong > fragnance to protect beads mainly from insects attack. Shelf life of > Sandle Oil is more than that of Sesame/Mustard/Oilive Oil. Rudraksha are > likely to absorb more quantity of Sandle Wood oil due to its woody > nature. The best way is to soak rudraksha with any oil having > antimicrobial and insecticidal properties overnight and after drying > thoroughly to apply sandle wood oil externally being expensive. > > > > Sesame Oil has similar chemical properties to that of Olive Oil > (Unsaponifable properties). Mustard Oil, Seasame Oil and Coconut Oil are > known to have antimicrobial properties. Coconut Oil has more shelf life > than that of sesame or mustard oil. However, I do not have any idea > about the comparative data of Mustard and Sesame Oil. > > > > The insect attack on beads is more serious than fungi. In tropical > climate like India, tiny beetles is the major problem for Rudraksha. > These beetles can easily drill holes in hard rudraksha stone (fruit) > damaging the bead. The best way to avoid these beetles is to keep > rudraksha mala in airy place. In temperate country like yours, beetles > may not be the problem, however, tiny mites may spoil the bead. Mites > carry fungus spores with them. Of course, mites are not that serious > than beetles as far as rudraksha are concerned. > > > > In temperate countries, there is no strong Sunlight. In such cases, > one can store Rudraksha beads with 'Silica Gel' bags to absorb moisture > from microclimate of the beads. > > > > Thanking you and with best wishes, > > > > Chandrashekhar Phadke > > > > alstrup alstrup@ wrote: > > > > Dear Chandrashekharji, > > > > Thank you for the info, it is always nice to get your educated views > in > > these matters. Do you consider Mustard oil to be better for beads than > > Sesame oil? Should the Sesame oil be cured first, as is recommended > when > > it is prepared as ayurvedic massage oil? (This to give it higher > > absorption rate) What is your insights about antimicrobial/antifungal > > properties of pure Sandalwood oil compared to other oils? > > > > As it so happens, I just received some fresh beads back from puja in > > India, some of them had developed some fresh external white fungus, > > because they had been wrapped in moist bilva leaves and inside a > sealed > > plastic bag. I imediately soaked/cleaned beads with pure soapy water > and > > toothbrush and soaked/flushed with clean water, also shaking the beads > > to get as much water out from inside beads. They are now clean. Then > > they have dried in air for some days with a towel underneath. Now I > need > > to soak them in oil. I have organic sesame oil, but only enough pure > > sandal wood for external coating. Should I soak overnight in sesame > oil > > first, then sun-dry and then apply sandalwood oil? How long should > beads > > dry in sun? What if there is no useful sunlight? > > > > Thanking you as always for your insights in these matters, > > > > ~ Ole > > sacred-objects, chandrashekhar phadke > > chphadke@ wrote: > > > > > > Dear Ole, > > > > > > Neem oil, though has antimicrobial properties, is thick and has very > > strong smell. The disadvantage of using thick oil is that it gets > > polymerised in few days making its consistency like a thick paste and > > therefore is not suitable for Rudraksha. > > > > > > Oil is mainly used to protect beads from microbial infection and to > > give lustre to beads. Other than Mustard Oil, 'Til Oil (Sesame Oil)' > is > > the best preservative for rudraksha beads. It has antifungal > properties. > > 'Til Oil' is also considered as auspicious. 'Til Oil' lamp is believed > > to emit positive energy. In Maharashtra State of India, it is a usual > > practice to lit 'Til Oil' lamp near the Puja altar. > > > > > > With best wishes, > > > > > > Chandrashekhar Phadke > > > > > > > > > alstrup alstrup@ wrote: > > > > > > Dear Alok Ji, > > > > > > Thanks for your input. Neem oil was previously discussed here, I > > raised > > > the point that pure coldpressed neem oil, which contains the > > beneficial > > > antimicrobial compunds, also has a very strong smell, so I am not > sure > > > this will be preferable, as the beads will get acquire the same > strong > > > smell. But I have no actual experience. > > > > > > As for the traditional use of mustard seed oil, is there a specific > > > preference; from yellow or dark seeds, or does it matter? Does the > oil > > > need to cured first; heated up to 100 degress celcius and the cooled > > > down? > > > > > > What is the "phoolkumari" oil made of? > > > > > > Thanks, > > > > > > ~Ole > > > > > > sacred-objects, "a_jagawat" a_jagawat@ > > > wrote: > > > > > > > > Dear Sir, > > > > > > > > Mustard oil protects the bead from harmful effects of degradation > > > > and it definitley preserves the bead. You can also use Neem oil > for > > > > the same. One of the bigger Rudraksha seller i know, uses some > > > > " Phoolkumari" oil for the same. Most of them use Mustard oil > > > > usually and keep them soaked in oil. > > > > > > > > Regards, > > > > > > > > Alok > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > sacred-objects, "alstrup" alstrup@ wrote: > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Is it necessary to soak beads and for what reasons? > > > > > > > > > > I am not sure that olive oil is good for beads, as it was not in > > > > use in > > > > > India, we dont know if it could reduce the longevity of the wood > > > > of the > > > > > beads over many years? There could be a good reason why mustard > > > > oil is > > > > > traditionally used, according to ayurveda, it is a drying oil, > > > > perhaps > > > > > the fatty acid composition of mustard oil has a preservation > > > > effect. > > > > > There should definitely be done some research on this topic. > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Ole > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > sacred-objects, "Mahamuni Das" > <mahamuni@> > > > > > wrote: > > > > > > > > > > > > Any will do. I normally use olive oil. Traditionally mustard > oil > > > > is > > > > > used, but I don't particularly like the smell. When just doing a > > > > quick > > > > > fix for a bead or mala, I use Sandlewood Oil, which is > definitely > > > > my > > > > > favorite to use, but is quite costly. When I do a good 1-2 day > > > > soak, I > > > > > use Olive and then follow with a light Sandlewood for scent. > > > > > > > > > > > > Surya > > > > > > > > > > > > - > > > > > > alphanov2@ > > > > > > sacred-objects > > > > > > Wednesday, August 16, 2006 6:43 AM > > > > > > Re: Re: Rudraksha bead quality > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > What are the best oils for soaking a rudraksha bead? > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Here's a new way to find what you're looking for - Answers > > > Send FREE SMS to your friend's mobile from Messenger Version > 8. > > Get it NOW > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Here's a new way to find what you're looking for - Answers > > Send FREE SMS to your friend's mobile from Messenger Version 8. > Get it NOW > > > Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Guest guest Report post Posted August 24, 2006 Dear Ole, Thank you very much for your mail. I would suggest you to use any oil for soaking purpose. As mentioned in my ealier posting few days back, you can use coconut oil which is easily available and has antimicrobial properties. Antimicrobial properties of 'Coconut Oil' and 'Sesame Oil' are well known and well studied. After soaking beads and making them thoroughly dry, you can use Sandle Wood Oil externally. I follow the same procedure to protect my precious Rudraksha beads though 'Sandle Wood Oil' is easily available here in India. If you are worried about fugal spores present inside the bead, I would suggest you the following procedure. Soak your beads in plain water without any detergent. Do not dry them immediately. Allow the fungus spores to germinate. It takes one or two days. Most of the fungal spores are resistant to any fungicidal agents, however, germinating fugal spores are not resistant to fungicides. You can use 0.5 to 1% 'Benomyl' as fungicidal agent. If Benomyl is not available, you can use any broad spectrum fungicide to treat your beads to kill germinating fungal spores. After the treatment of fungicide, thoroughly dry your beads using tissue paper. Oil them with Coconut or Olive Oil. Remove extra oil with tissue. Apply Sandle Wood Oil externally. Always store your beads in airy place. Preferable, wear these beads regularly. Regular wearing will keep insects away. Thanking you and with best wishes, Chandrashekhar Phadke alstrup <alstrup > wrote: Pranams I really need some qualified input on how I treat my collector size beads which arrived from India from puja ceremony, where some had some suffered surface attack of white fungus attack, (they had been packed in sealed plastic after puja wrapped with bilva leaves so the moisture had caused some fungal growth) I immediately soaked and cleaned beads with natural brown soap water and fresh toothbrush and flushed with clean water and let the beads dry thoroughly. They show no exterior sign of damage. However, I am worried if I just apply sandalwood oil on surface, that some fungus spores could have survived inside the beads, and if I dont soak beads in oil, the fungus could perhaps start growing slowly inside the beads and destroy them from within until I found out and it was then too late. I wonder if pure sandalwood oil has strong antifungal properties useful for this purpose? I would need to obtain at least 200ml. I do have neem oil, which has STRONG antifungal properties, but Chandrashekharji advised against it, and I also have some concerns, because of the strong smell and characteristics of this oil. Also because I dont know how this oil will affect the beads in other ways. Then there is the traditional mustard and also sesame oil, but I still need to know if these oils will be able to disinfect the beads adequately from within from any fungus. These beads are some very special higher mukhi collector beads, and PRICELESS to me so I really need to know what is best to do. Chandrashekhar Prabhuji, if you are reading this, I hope for your reply! ~ Ole sacred-objects, "alstrup" <alstrup wrote: > > > Dear Chandrashekharji, > > Unfortunately I dont have enough pure Sandalwood oil here right now to > soak all my new beads after the soap/brush/ water cleaning. Will it > suffice to oil the beads on the surface? What is the advantage of > soaking, that the oil penetrates deep into the bead? If so, for how long > should the beads be soaked for best effect? I do have the sesame oil, > but I am worried that the beads will assimilate the sesame smell and I > want to avoid that. What do you think? > > Input from others with practical experience of this is highly welcome! > > Thanks, > > Ole > > > sacred-objects, chandrashekhar phadke > chphadke@ wrote: > > > > Dear Ole, > > > > Thank you very much for your mail. I am of the opinion that the Sandle > Wood oil may be better than that of the Sesame oil due to its strong > fragnance to protect beads mainly from insects attack. Shelf life of > Sandle Oil is more than that of Sesame/Mustard/Oilive Oil. Rudraksha are > likely to absorb more quantity of Sandle Wood oil due to its woody > nature. The best way is to soak rudraksha with any oil having > antimicrobial and insecticidal properties overnight and after drying > thoroughly to apply sandle wood oil externally being expensive. > > > > Sesame Oil has similar chemical properties to that of Olive Oil > (Unsaponifable properties). Mustard Oil, Seasame Oil and Coconut Oil are > known to have antimicrobial properties. Coconut Oil has more shelf life > than that of sesame or mustard oil. However, I do not have any idea > about the comparative data of Mustard and Sesame Oil. > > > > The insect attack on beads is more serious than fungi. In tropical > climate like India, tiny beetles is the major problem for Rudraksha. > These beetles can easily drill holes in hard rudraksha stone (fruit) > damaging the bead. The best way to avoid these beetles is to keep > rudraksha mala in airy place. In temperate country like yours, beetles > may not be the problem, however, tiny mites may spoil the bead. Mites > carry fungus spores with them. Of course, mites are not that serious > than beetles as far as rudraksha are concerned. > > > > In temperate countries, there is no strong Sunlight. In such cases, > one can store Rudraksha beads with 'Silica Gel' bags to absorb moisture > from microclimate of the beads. > > > > Thanking you and with best wishes, > > > > Chandrashekhar Phadke > > > > alstrup alstrup@ wrote: > > > > Dear Chandrashekharji, > > > > Thank you for the info, it is always nice to get your educated views > in > > these matters. Do you consider Mustard oil to be better for beads than > > Sesame oil? Should the Sesame oil be cured first, as is recommended > when > > it is prepared as ayurvedic massage oil? (This to give it higher > > absorption rate) What is your insights about antimicrobial/antifungal > > properties of pure Sandalwood oil compared to other oils? > > > > As it so happens, I just received some fresh beads back from puja in > > India, some of them had developed some fresh external white fungus, > > because they had been wrapped in moist bilva leaves and inside a > sealed > > plastic bag. I imediately soaked/cleaned beads with pure soapy water > and > > toothbrush and soaked/flushed with clean water, also shaking the beads > > to get as much water out from inside beads. They are now clean. Then > > they have dried in air for some days with a towel underneath. Now I > need > > to soak them in oil. I have organic sesame oil, but only enough pure > > sandal wood for external coating. Should I soak overnight in sesame > oil > > first, then sun-dry and then apply sandalwood oil? How long should > beads > > dry in sun? What if there is no useful sunlight? > > > > Thanking you as always for your insights in these matters, > > > > ~ Ole > > sacred-objects, chandrashekhar phadke > > chphadke@ wrote: > > > > > > Dear Ole, > > > > > > Neem oil, though has antimicrobial properties, is thick and has very > > strong smell. The disadvantage of using thick oil is that it gets > > polymerised in few days making its consistency like a thick paste and > > therefore is not suitable for Rudraksha. > > > > > > Oil is mainly used to protect beads from microbial infection and to > > give lustre to beads. Other than Mustard Oil, 'Til Oil (Sesame Oil)' > is > > the best preservative for rudraksha beads. It has antifungal > properties. > > 'Til Oil' is also considered as auspicious. 'Til Oil' lamp is believed > > to emit positive energy. In Maharashtra State of India, it is a usual > > practice to lit 'Til Oil' lamp near the Puja altar. > > > > > > With best wishes, > > > > > > Chandrashekhar Phadke > > > > > > > > > alstrup alstrup@ wrote: > > > > > > Dear Alok Ji, > > > > > > Thanks for your input. Neem oil was previously discussed here, I > > raised > > > the point that pure coldpressed neem oil, which contains the > > beneficial > > > antimicrobial compunds, also has a very strong smell, so I am not > sure > > > this will be preferable, as the beads will get acquire the same > strong > > > smell. But I have no actual experience. > > > > > > As for the traditional use of mustard seed oil, is there a specific > > > preference; from yellow or dark seeds, or does it matter? Does the > oil > > > need to cured first; heated up to 100 degress celcius and the cooled > > > down? > > > > > > What is the "phoolkumari" oil made of? > > > > > > Thanks, > > > > > > ~Ole > > > > > > sacred-objects, "a_jagawat" a_jagawat@ > > > wrote: > > > > > > > > Dear Sir, > > > > > > > > Mustard oil protects the bead from harmful effects of degradation > > > > and it definitley preserves the bead. You can also use Neem oil > for > > > > the same. One of the bigger Rudraksha seller i know, uses some > > > > " Phoolkumari" oil for the same. Most of them use Mustard oil > > > > usually and keep them soaked in oil. > > > > > > > > Regards, > > > > > > > > Alok > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > sacred-objects, "alstrup" alstrup@ wrote: > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Is it necessary to soak beads and for what reasons? > > > > > > > > > > I am not sure that olive oil is good for beads, as it was not in > > > > use in > > > > > India, we dont know if it could reduce the longevity of the wood > > > > of the > > > > > beads over many years? There could be a good reason why mustard > > > > oil is > > > > > traditionally used, according to ayurveda, it is a drying oil, > > > > perhaps > > > > > the fatty acid composition of mustard oil has a preservation > > > > effect. > > > > > There should definitely be done some research on this topic. > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Ole > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > sacred-objects, "Mahamuni Das" > <mahamuni@> > > > > > wrote: > > > > > > > > > > > > Any will do. I normally use olive oil. Traditionally mustard > oil > > > > is > > > > > used, but I don't particularly like the smell. When just doing a > > > > quick > > > > > fix for a bead or mala, I use Sandlewood Oil, which is > definitely > > > > my > > > > > favorite to use, but is quite costly. When I do a good 1-2 day > > > > soak, I > > > > > use Olive and then follow with a light Sandlewood for scent. > > > > > > > > > > > > Surya > > > > > > > > > > > > - > > > > > > alphanov2@ > > > > > > sacred-objects > > > > > > Wednesday, August 16, 2006 6:43 AM > > > > > > Re: Re: Rudraksha bead quality > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > What are the best oils for soaking a rudraksha bead? > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Here's a new way to find what you're looking for - Answers > > > Send FREE SMS to your friend's mobile from Messenger Version > 8. > > Get it NOW > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Here's a new way to find what you're looking for - Answers > > Send FREE SMS to your friend's mobile from Messenger Version 8. > Get it NOW > > > Here's a new way to find what you're looking for - Answers Send FREE SMS to your friend's mobile from Messenger Version 8. Get it NOW Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Guest guest Report post Posted August 24, 2006 Dear Ole, Thank you very much for your mail. I would suggest you to use any oil for soaking purpose. As mentioned in my ealier posting few days back, you can use coconut oil which is easily available and has antimicrobial properties. Antimicrobial properties of 'Coconut Oil' and 'Sesame Oil' are well known and well studied. After soaking beads and making them thoroughly dry, you can use Sandle Wood Oil externally. I follow the same procedure to protect my precious Rudraksha beads though 'Sandle Wood Oil' is easily available here in India. If you are worried about fugal spores present inside the bead, I would suggest you the following procedure. Soak your beads in plain water without any detergent. Do not dry them immediately. Allow the fungus spores to germinate. It takes one or two days. Most of the fungal spores are resistant to any fungicidal agents, however, germinating fugal spores are not resistant to fungicides. You can use 0.5 to 1% 'Benomyl' as fungicidal agent. If Benomyl is not available, you can use any broad spectrum fungicide to treat your beads to kill germinating fungal spores. After the treatment of fungicide, thoroughly dry your beads using tissue paper. Oil them with Coconut or Olive Oil. Remove extra oil with tissue. Apply Sandle Wood Oil externally. Always store your beads in airy place. Preferable, wear these beads regularly. Regular wearing will keep insects away. Thanking you and with best wishes, Chandrashekhar Phadke alstrup <alstrup > wrote: Pranams I really need some qualified input on how I treat my collector size beads which arrived from India from puja ceremony, where some had some suffered surface attack of white fungus attack, (they had been packed in sealed plastic after puja wrapped with bilva leaves so the moisture had caused some fungal growth) I immediately soaked and cleaned beads with natural brown soap water and fresh toothbrush and flushed with clean water and let the beads dry thoroughly. They show no exterior sign of damage. However, I am worried if I just apply sandalwood oil on surface, that some fungus spores could have survived inside the beads, and if I dont soak beads in oil, the fungus could perhaps start growing slowly inside the beads and destroy them from within until I found out and it was then too late. I wonder if pure sandalwood oil has strong antifungal properties useful for this purpose? I would need to obtain at least 200ml. I do have neem oil, which has STRONG antifungal properties, but Chandrashekharji advised against it, and I also have some concerns, because of the strong smell and characteristics of this oil. Also because I dont know how this oil will affect the beads in other ways. Then there is the traditional mustard and also sesame oil, but I still need to know if these oils will be able to disinfect the beads adequately from within from any fungus. These beads are some very special higher mukhi collector beads, and PRICELESS to me so I really need to know what is best to do. Chandrashekhar Prabhuji, if you are reading this, I hope for your reply! ~ Ole sacred-objects, "alstrup" <alstrup wrote: > > > Dear Chandrashekharji, > > Unfortunately I dont have enough pure Sandalwood oil here right now to > soak all my new beads after the soap/brush/ water cleaning. Will it > suffice to oil the beads on the surface? What is the advantage of > soaking, that the oil penetrates deep into the bead? If so, for how long > should the beads be soaked for best effect? I do have the sesame oil, > but I am worried that the beads will assimilate the sesame smell and I > want to avoid that. What do you think? > > Input from others with practical experience of this is highly welcome! > > Thanks, > > Ole > > > sacred-objects, chandrashekhar phadke > chphadke@ wrote: > > > > Dear Ole, > > > > Thank you very much for your mail. I am of the opinion that the Sandle > Wood oil may be better than that of the Sesame oil due to its strong > fragnance to protect beads mainly from insects attack. Shelf life of > Sandle Oil is more than that of Sesame/Mustard/Oilive Oil. Rudraksha are > likely to absorb more quantity of Sandle Wood oil due to its woody > nature. The best way is to soak rudraksha with any oil having > antimicrobial and insecticidal properties overnight and after drying > thoroughly to apply sandle wood oil externally being expensive. > > > > Sesame Oil has similar chemical properties to that of Olive Oil > (Unsaponifable properties). Mustard Oil, Seasame Oil and Coconut Oil are > known to have antimicrobial properties. Coconut Oil has more shelf life > than that of sesame or mustard oil. However, I do not have any idea > about the comparative data of Mustard and Sesame Oil. > > > > The insect attack on beads is more serious than fungi. In tropical > climate like India, tiny beetles is the major problem for Rudraksha. > These beetles can easily drill holes in hard rudraksha stone (fruit) > damaging the bead. The best way to avoid these beetles is to keep > rudraksha mala in airy place. In temperate country like yours, beetles > may not be the problem, however, tiny mites may spoil the bead. Mites > carry fungus spores with them. Of course, mites are not that serious > than beetles as far as rudraksha are concerned. > > > > In temperate countries, there is no strong Sunlight. In such cases, > one can store Rudraksha beads with 'Silica Gel' bags to absorb moisture > from microclimate of the beads. > > > > Thanking you and with best wishes, > > > > Chandrashekhar Phadke > > > > alstrup alstrup@ wrote: > > > > Dear Chandrashekharji, > > > > Thank you for the info, it is always nice to get your educated views > in > > these matters. Do you consider Mustard oil to be better for beads than > > Sesame oil? Should the Sesame oil be cured first, as is recommended > when > > it is prepared as ayurvedic massage oil? (This to give it higher > > absorption rate) What is your insights about antimicrobial/antifungal > > properties of pure Sandalwood oil compared to other oils? > > > > As it so happens, I just received some fresh beads back from puja in > > India, some of them had developed some fresh external white fungus, > > because they had been wrapped in moist bilva leaves and inside a > sealed > > plastic bag. I imediately soaked/cleaned beads with pure soapy water > and > > toothbrush and soaked/flushed with clean water, also shaking the beads > > to get as much water out from inside beads. They are now clean. Then > > they have dried in air for some days with a towel underneath. Now I > need > > to soak them in oil. I have organic sesame oil, but only enough pure > > sandal wood for external coating. Should I soak overnight in sesame > oil > > first, then sun-dry and then apply sandalwood oil? How long should > beads > > dry in sun? What if there is no useful sunlight? > > > > Thanking you as always for your insights in these matters, > > > > ~ Ole > > sacred-objects, chandrashekhar phadke > > chphadke@ wrote: > > > > > > Dear Ole, > > > > > > Neem oil, though has antimicrobial properties, is thick and has very > > strong smell. The disadvantage of using thick oil is that it gets > > polymerised in few days making its consistency like a thick paste and > > therefore is not suitable for Rudraksha. > > > > > > Oil is mainly used to protect beads from microbial infection and to > > give lustre to beads. Other than Mustard Oil, 'Til Oil (Sesame Oil)' > is > > the best preservative for rudraksha beads. It has antifungal > properties. > > 'Til Oil' is also considered as auspicious. 'Til Oil' lamp is believed > > to emit positive energy. In Maharashtra State of India, it is a usual > > practice to lit 'Til Oil' lamp near the Puja altar. > > > > > > With best wishes, > > > > > > Chandrashekhar Phadke > > > > > > > > > alstrup alstrup@ wrote: > > > > > > Dear Alok Ji, > > > > > > Thanks for your input. Neem oil was previously discussed here, I > > raised > > > the point that pure coldpressed neem oil, which contains the > > beneficial > > > antimicrobial compunds, also has a very strong smell, so I am not > sure > > > this will be preferable, as the beads will get acquire the same > strong > > > smell. But I have no actual experience. > > > > > > As for the traditional use of mustard seed oil, is there a specific > > > preference; from yellow or dark seeds, or does it matter? Does the > oil > > > need to cured first; heated up to 100 degress celcius and the cooled > > > down? > > > > > > What is the "phoolkumari" oil made of? > > > > > > Thanks, > > > > > > ~Ole > > > > > > sacred-objects, "a_jagawat" a_jagawat@ > > > wrote: > > > > > > > > Dear Sir, > > > > > > > > Mustard oil protects the bead from harmful effects of degradation > > > > and it definitley preserves the bead. You can also use Neem oil > for > > > > the same. One of the bigger Rudraksha seller i know, uses some > > > > " Phoolkumari" oil for the same. Most of them use Mustard oil > > > > usually and keep them soaked in oil. > > > > > > > > Regards, > > > > > > > > Alok > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > sacred-objects, "alstrup" alstrup@ wrote: > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Is it necessary to soak beads and for what reasons? > > > > > > > > > > I am not sure that olive oil is good for beads, as it was not in > > > > use in > > > > > India, we dont know if it could reduce the longevity of the wood > > > > of the > > > > > beads over many years? There could be a good reason why mustard > > > > oil is > > > > > traditionally used, according to ayurveda, it is a drying oil, > > > > perhaps > > > > > the fatty acid composition of mustard oil has a preservation > > > > effect. > > > > > There should definitely be done some research on this topic. > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Ole > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > sacred-objects, "Mahamuni Das" > <mahamuni@> > > > > > wrote: > > > > > > > > > > > > Any will do. I normally use olive oil. Traditionally mustard > oil > > > > is > > > > > used, but I don't particularly like the smell. When just doing a > > > > quick > > > > > fix for a bead or mala, I use Sandlewood Oil, which is > definitely > > > > my > > > > > favorite to use, but is quite costly. When I do a good 1-2 day > > > > soak, I > > > > > use Olive and then follow with a light Sandlewood for scent. > > > > > > > > > > > > Surya > > > > > > > > > > > > - > > > > > > alphanov2@ > > > > > > sacred-objects > > > > > > Wednesday, August 16, 2006 6:43 AM > > > > > > Re: Re: Rudraksha bead quality > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > What are the best oils for soaking a rudraksha bead? > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Here's a new way to find what you're looking for - Answers > > > Send FREE SMS to your friend's mobile from Messenger Version > 8. > > Get it NOW > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Here's a new way to find what you're looking for - Answers > > Send FREE SMS to your friend's mobile from Messenger Version 8. > Get it NOW > > > Here's a new way to find what you're looking for - Answers Send FREE SMS to your friend's mobile from Messenger Version 8. Get it NOW Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Guest guest Report post Posted August 24, 2006 But coconut oil becomes solid readily at room temp. Why use it? How can you soak it in this? It becomes like butter. Olive or Sesame sounds like a better bet. Did anyone know that the Olive leaf has anti microbial properties. Anti fungal, anti viral and anti bacterial. I am sure this does not apply to the fruit in the same way, but possibly some like characteristics are there as well, though in much reduced quantity. Jai Maa! Surya - chandrashekhar phadke sacred-objects Thursday, August 24, 2006 3:01 AM Re: Rudraksha oil treatment ! Dear Ole, Thank you very much for your mail. I would suggest you to use any oil for soaking purpose. As mentioned in my ealier posting few days back, you can use coconut oil which is easily available and has antimicrobial properties. Antimicrobial properties of 'Coconut Oil' and 'Sesame Oil' are well known and well studied. After soaking beads and making them thoroughly dry, you can use Sandle Wood Oil externally. I follow the same procedure to protect my precious Rudraksha beads though 'Sandle Wood Oil' is easily available here in India. If you are worried about fugal spores present inside the bead, I would suggest you the following procedure. Soak your beads in plain water without any detergent. Do not dry them immediately. Allow the fungus spores to germinate. It takes one or two days.. Most of the fungal spores are resistant to any fungicidal agents, however, germinating fugal spores are not resistant to fungicides. You can use 0.5 to 1% 'Benomyl' as fungicidal agent. If Benomyl is not available, you can use any broad spectrum fungicide to treat your beads to kill germinating fungal spores. After the treatment of fungicide, thoroughly dry your beads using tissue paper. Oil them with Coconut or Olive Oil. Remove extra oil with tissue. Apply Sandle Wood Oil externally. Always store your beads in airy place. Preferable, wear these beads regularly. Regular wearing will keep insects away. Thanking you and with best wishes, Chandrashekhar Phadke alstrup <alstrup > wrote: Pranams I really need some qualified input on how I treat my collector size beads which arrived from India from puja ceremony, where some had some suffered surface attack of white fungus attack, (they had been packed in sealed plastic after puja wrapped with bilva leaves so the moisture had caused some fungal growth) I immediately soaked and cleaned beads with natural brown soap water and fresh toothbrush and flushed with clean water and let the beads dry thoroughly. They show no exterior sign of damage. However, I am worried if I just apply sandalwood oil on surface, that some fungus spores could have survived inside the beads, and if I dont soak beads in oil, the fungus could perhaps start growing slowly inside the beads and destroy them from within until I found out and it was then too late. I wonder if pure sandalwood oil has strong antifungal properties useful for this purpose? I would need to obtain at least 200ml. I do have neem oil, which has STRONG antifungal properties, but Chandrashekharji advised against it, and I also have some concerns, because of the strong smell and characteristics of this oil. Also because I dont know how this oil will affect the beads in other ways. Then there is the traditional mustard and also sesame oil, but I still need to know if these oils will be able to disinfect the beads adequately from within from any fungus. These beads are some very special higher mukhi collector beads, and PRICELESS to me so I really need to know what is best to do. Chandrashekhar Prabhuji, if you are reading this, I hope for your reply! ~ Ole sacred-objects, "alstrup" <alstrup wrote: > > > Dear Chandrashekharji, > > Unfortunately I dont have enough pure Sandalwood oil here right now to > soak all my new beads after the soap/brush/ water cleaning. Will it > suffice to oil the beads on the surface? What is the advantage of > soaking, that the oil penetrates deep into the bead? If so, for how long > should the beads be soaked for best effect? I do have the sesame oil, > but I am worried that the beads will assimilate the sesame smell and I > want to avoid that. What do you think? > > Input from others with practical experience of this is highly welcome! > > Thanks, > > Ole > > > sacred-objects, chandrashekhar phadke > chphadke@ wrote: > > > > Dear Ole, > > > > Thank you very much for your mail. I am of the opinion that the Sandle > Wood oil may be better than that of the Sesame oil due to its strong > fragnance to protect beads mainly from insects attack. Shelf life of > Sandle Oil is more than that of Sesame/Mustard/Oilive Oil. Rudraksha are > likely to absorb more quantity of Sandle Wood oil due to its woody > nature. The best way is to soak rudraksha with any oil having > antimicrobial and insecticidal properties overnight and after drying > thoroughly to apply sandle wood oil externally being expensive. > > > > Sesame Oil has similar chemical properties to that of Olive Oil > (Unsaponifable properties). Mustard Oil, Seasame Oil and Coconut Oil are > known to have antimicrobial properties. Coconut Oil has more shelf life > than that of sesame or mustard oil. However, I do not have any idea > about the comparative data of Mustard and Sesame Oil. > > > > The insect attack on beads is more serious than fungi. In tropical > climate like India, tiny beetles is the major problem for Rudraksha. > These beetles can easily drill holes in hard rudraksha stone (fruit) > damaging the bead. The best way to avoid these beetles is to keep > rudraksha mala in airy place. In temperate country like yours, beetles > may not be the problem, however, tiny mites may spoil the bead. Mites > carry fungus spores with them. Of course, mites are not that serious > than beetles as far as rudraksha are concerned. > > > > In temperate countries, there is no strong Sunlight. In such cases, > one can store Rudraksha beads with 'Silica Gel' bags to absorb moisture > from microclimate of the beads. > > > > Thanking you and with best wishes, > > > > Chandrashekhar Phadke > > > > alstrup alstrup@ wrote: > > > > Dear Chandrashekharji, > > > > Thank you for the info, it is always nice to get your educated views > in > > these matters. Do you consider Mustard oil to be better for beads than > > Sesame oil? Should the Sesame oil be cured first, as is recommended > when > > it is prepared as ayurvedic massage oil? (This to give it higher > > absorption rate) What is your insights about antimicrobial/antifungal > > properties of pure Sandalwood oil compared to other oils? > > > > As it so happens, I just received some fresh beads back from puja in > > India, some of them had developed some fresh external white fungus, > > because they had been wrapped in moist bilva leaves and inside a > sealed > > plastic bag. I imediately soaked/cleaned beads with pure soapy water > and > > toothbrush and soaked/flushed with clean water, also shaking the beads > > to get as much water out from inside beads. They are now clean. Then > > they have dried in air for some days with a towel underneath. Now I > need > > to soak them in oil. I have organic sesame oil, but only enough pure > > sandal wood for external coating. Should I soak overnight in sesame > oil > > first, then sun-dry and then apply sandalwood oil? How long should > beads > > dry in sun? What if there is no useful sunlight? > > > > Thanking you as always for your insights in these matters, > > > > ~ Ole > > sacred-objects, chandrashekhar phadke > > chphadke@ wrote: > > > > > > Dear Ole, > > > > > > Neem oil, though has antimicrobial properties, is thick and has very > > strong smell. The disadvantage of using thick oil is that it gets > > polymerised in few days making its consistency like a thick paste and > > therefore is not suitable for Rudraksha. > > > > > > Oil is mainly used to protect beads from microbial infection and to > > give lustre to beads. Other than Mustard Oil, 'Til Oil (Sesame Oil)' > is > > the best preservative for rudraksha beads. It has antifungal > properties. > > 'Til Oil' is also considered as auspicious. 'Til Oil' lamp is believed > > to emit positive energy. In Maharashtra State of India, it is a usual > > practice to lit 'Til Oil' lamp near the Puja altar. > > > > > > With best wishes, > > > > > > Chandrashekhar Phadke > > > > > > > > > alstrup alstrup@ wrote: > > > > > > Dear Alok Ji, > > > > > > Thanks for your input. Neem oil was previously discussed here, I > > raised > > > the point that pure coldpressed neem oil, which contains the > > beneficial > > > antimicrobial compunds, also has a very strong smell, so I am not > sure > > > this will be preferable, as the beads will get acquire the same > strong > > > smell. But I have no actual experience. > > > > > > As for the traditional use of mustard seed oil, is there a specific > > > preference; from yellow or dark seeds, or does it matter? Does the > oil > > > need to cured first; heated up to 100 degress celcius and the cooled > > > down? > > > > > > What is the "phoolkumari" oil made of? > > > > > > Thanks, > > > > > > ~Ole > > > > > > sacred-objects, "a_jagawat" a_jagawat@ > > > wrote: > > > > > > > > Dear Sir, > > > > > > > > Mustard oil protects the bead from harmful effects of degradation > > > > and it definitley preserves the bead. You can also use Neem oil > for > > > > the same. One of the bigger Rudraksha seller i know, uses some > > > > " Phoolkumari" oil for the same. Most of them use Mustard oil > > > > usually and keep them soaked in oil. > > > > > > > > Regards, > > > > > > > > Alok > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > sacred-objects, "alstrup" alstrup@ wrote: > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Is it necessary to soak beads and for what reasons? > > > > > > > > > > I am not sure that olive oil is good for beads, as it was not in > > > > use in > > > > > India, we dont know if it could reduce the longevity of the wood > > > > of the > > > > > beads over many years? There could be a good reason why mustard > > > > oil is > > > > > traditionally used, according to ayurveda, it is a drying oil, > > > > perhaps > > > > > the fatty acid composition of mustard oil has a preservation > > > > effect. > > > > > There should definitely be done some research on this topic. > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Ole > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > sacred-objects, "Mahamuni Das" > <mahamuni@> > > > > > wrote: > > > > > > > > > > > > Any will do. I normally use olive oil. Traditionally mustard > oil > > > > is > > > > > used, but I don't particularly like the smell. When just doing a > > > > quick > > > > > fix for a bead or mala, I use Sandlewood Oil, which is > definitely > > > > my > > > > > favorite to use, but is quite costly. When I do a good 1-2 day > > > > soak, I > > > > > use Olive and then follow with a light Sandlewood for scent. > > > > > > > > > > > > Surya > > > > > > > > > > > > - > > > > > > alphanov2@ > > > > > > sacred-objects > > > > > > Wednesday, August 16, 2006 6:43 AM > > > > > > Re: Re: Rudraksha bead quality > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > What are the best oils for soaking a rudraksha bead? > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Here's a new way to find what you're looking for - Answers > > > Send FREE SMS to your friend's mobile from Messenger Version > 8. > > Get it NOW > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Here's a new way to find what you're looking for - Answers > > Send FREE SMS to your friend's mobile from Messenger Version 8. > Get it NOW > > > Here's a new way to find what you're looking for - Answers Send FREE SMS to your friend's mobile from Messenger Version 8. Get it NOW Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Guest guest Report post Posted August 24, 2006 Hi Alstrup Mustard seed oil is the best oil among all the oils for treating the rudraksha seeds. Since you have collector beads, get the traditional ( with the indian brand ) mustard seed oil ( for cooking ) for your beads. Mustard by itself has very good energy clearing properties, very very good for protection of rudraksha seeds then olive oil. Mustard oil is much ticker and heavier then most oil. Sandalwood oil is just for the sake of good smell. Properties wise - in my opinion just good for the smell - and expensive too - ( the real ones ) If you really want to clear the fungus ... boil the seeds in water for a 2 - 3 minutes and quickly wash in cold water. let it dry and then put the oil. i have tried all this - in case you are wondering - for my own beads .... bye the way -- wouldnt the priest know that wrapping the beads in leaves will cause fungus !!! simone alstrup <alstrup > wrote: Pranams I really need some qualified input on how I treat my collector size beads which arrived from India from puja ceremony, where some had some suffered surface attack of white fungus attack, (they had been packed in sealed plastic after puja wrapped with bilva leaves so the moisture had caused some fungal growth) I immediately soaked and cleaned beads with natural brown soap water and fresh toothbrush and flushed with clean water and let the beads dry thoroughly. They show no exterior sign of damage. However, I am worried if I just apply sandalwood oil on surface, that some fungus spores could have survived inside the beads, and if I dont soak beads in oil, the fungus could perhaps start growing slowly inside the beads and destroy them from within until I found out and it was then too late. I wonder if pure sandalwood oil has strong antifungal properties useful for this purpose? I would need to obtain at least 200ml. I do have neem oil, which has STRONG antifungal properties, but Chandrashekharji advised against it, and I also have some concerns, because of the strong smell and characteristics of this oil. Also because I dont know how this oil will affect the beads in other ways. Then there is the traditional mustard and also sesame oil, but I still need to know if these oils will be able to disinfect the beads adequately from within from any fungus. These beads are some very special higher mukhi collector beads, and PRICELESS to me so I really need to know what is best to do. Chandrashekhar Prabhuji, if you are reading this, I hope for your reply! ~ Ole sacred-objects, "alstrup" <alstrup wrote: > > > Dear Chandrashekharji, > > Unfortunately I dont have enough pure Sandalwood oil here right now to > soak all my new beads after the soap/brush/ water cleaning. Will it > suffice to oil the beads on the surface? What is the advantage of > soaking, that the oil penetrates deep into the bead? If so, for how long > should the beads be soaked for best effect? I do have the sesame oil, > but I am worried that the beads will assimilate the sesame smell and I > want to avoid that. What do you think? > > Input from others with practical experience of this is highly welcome! > > Thanks, > > Ole > > > sacred-objects, chandrashekhar phadke > chphadke@ wrote: > > > > Dear Ole, > > > > Thank you very much for your mail. I am of the opinion that the Sandle > Wood oil may be better than that of the Sesame oil due to its strong > fragnance to protect beads mainly from insects attack. Shelf life of > Sandle Oil is more than that of Sesame/Mustard/Oilive Oil. Rudraksha are > likely to absorb more quantity of Sandle Wood oil due to its woody > nature. The best way is to soak rudraksha with any oil having > antimicrobial and insecticidal properties overnight and after drying > thoroughly to apply sandle wood oil externally being expensive. > > > > Sesame Oil has similar chemical properties to that of Olive Oil > (Unsaponifable properties). Mustard Oil, Seasame Oil and Coconut Oil are > known to have antimicrobial properties. Coconut Oil has more shelf life > than that of sesame or mustard oil. However, I do not have any idea > about the comparative data of Mustard and Sesame Oil. > > > > The insect attack on beads is more serious than fungi. In tropical > climate like India, tiny beetles is the major problem for Rudraksha. > These beetles can easily drill holes in hard rudraksha stone (fruit) > damaging the bead. The best way to avoid these beetles is to keep > rudraksha mala in airy place. In temperate country like yours, beetles > may not be the problem, however, tiny mites may spoil the bead. Mites > carry fungus spores with them. Of course, mites are not that serious > than beetles as far as rudraksha are concerned. > > > > In temperate countries, there is no strong Sunlight. In such cases, > one can store Rudraksha beads with 'Silica Gel' bags to absorb moisture > from microclimate of the beads. > > > > Thanking you and with best wishes, > > > > Chandrashekhar Phadke > > > > alstrup alstrup@ wrote: > > > > Dear Chandrashekharji, > > > > Thank you for the info, it is always nice to get your educated views > in > > these matters. Do you consider Mustard oil to be better for beads than > > Sesame oil? Should the Sesame oil be cured first, as is recommended > when > > it is prepared as ayurvedic massage oil? (This to give it higher > > absorption rate) What is your insights about antimicrobial/antifungal > > properties of pure Sandalwood oil compared to other oils? > > > > As it so happens, I just received some fresh beads back from puja in > > India, some of them had developed some fresh external white fungus, > > because they had been wrapped in moist bilva leaves and inside a > sealed > > plastic bag. I imediately soaked/cleaned beads with pure soapy water > and > > toothbrush and soaked/flushed with clean water, also shaking the beads > > to get as much water out from inside beads. They are now clean. Then > > they have dried in air for some days with a towel underneath. Now I > need > > to soak them in oil. I have organic sesame oil, but only enough pure > > sandal wood for external coating. Should I soak overnight in sesame > oil > > first, then sun-dry and then apply sandalwood oil? How long should > beads > > dry in sun? What if there is no useful sunlight? > > > > Thanking you as always for your insights in these matters, > > > > ~ Ole > > sacred-objects, chandrashekhar phadke > > chphadke@ wrote: > > > > > > Dear Ole, > > > > > > Neem oil, though has antimicrobial properties, is thick and has very > > strong smell. The disadvantage of using thick oil is that it gets > > polymerised in few days making its consistency like a thick paste and > > therefore is not suitable for Rudraksha. > > > > > > Oil is mainly used to protect beads from microbial infection and to > > give lustre to beads. Other than Mustard Oil, 'Til Oil (Sesame Oil)' > is > > the best preservative for rudraksha beads. It has antifungal > properties. > > 'Til Oil' is also considered as auspicious. 'Til Oil' lamp is believed > > to emit positive energy. In Maharashtra State of India, it is a usual > > practice to lit 'Til Oil' lamp near the Puja altar. > > > > > > With best wishes, > > > > > > Chandrashekhar Phadke > > > > > > > > > alstrup alstrup@ wrote: > > > > > > Dear Alok Ji, > > > > > > Thanks for your input. Neem oil was previously discussed here, I > > raised > > > the point that pure coldpressed neem oil, which contains the > > beneficial > > > antimicrobial compunds, also has a very strong smell, so I am not > sure > > > this will be preferable, as the beads will get acquire the same > strong > > > smell. But I have no actual experience. > > > > > > As for the traditional use of mustard seed oil, is there a specific > > > preference; from yellow or dark seeds, or does it matter? Does the > oil > > > need to cured first; heated up to 100 degress celcius and the cooled > > > down? > > > > > > What is the "phoolkumari" oil made of? > > > > > > Thanks, > > > > > > ~Ole > > > > > > sacred-objects, "a_jagawat" a_jagawat@ > > > wrote: > > > > > > > > Dear Sir, > > > > > > > > Mustard oil protects the bead from harmful effects of degradation > > > > and it definitley preserves the bead. You can also use Neem oil > for > > > > the same. One of the bigger Rudraksha seller i know, uses some > > > > " Phoolkumari" oil for the same. Most of them use Mustard oil > > > > usually and keep them soaked in oil. > > > > > > > > Regards, > > > > > > > > Alok > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > sacred-objects, "alstrup" alstrup@ wrote: > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Is it necessary to soak beads and for what reasons? > > > > > > > > > > I am not sure that olive oil is good for beads, as it was not in > > > > use in > > > > > India, we dont know if it could reduce the longevity of the wood > > > > of the > > > > > beads over many years? There could be a good reason why mustard > > > > oil is > > > > > traditionally used, according to ayurveda, it is a drying oil, > > > > perhaps > > > > > the fatty acid composition of mustard oil has a preservation > > > > effect. > > > > > There should definitely be done some research on this topic. > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Ole > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > sacred-objects, "Mahamuni Das" > <mahamuni@> > > > > > wrote: > > > > > > > > > > > > Any will do. I normally use olive oil. Traditionally mustard > oil > > > > is > > > > > used, but I don't particularly like the smell. When just doing a > > > > quick > > > > > fix for a bead or mala, I use Sandlewood Oil, which is > definitely > > > > my > > > > > favorite to use, but is quite costly. When I do a good 1-2 day > > > > soak, I > > > > > use Olive and then follow with a light Sandlewood for scent. > > > > > > > > > > > > Surya > > > > > > > > > > > > - > > > > > > alphanov2@ > > > > > > sacred-objects > > > > > > Wednesday, August 16, 2006 6:43 AM > > > > > > Re: Re: Rudraksha bead quality > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > What are the best oils for soaking a rudraksha bead? > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Here's a new way to find what you're looking for - Answers > > > Send FREE SMS to your friend's mobile from Messenger Version > 8. > > Get it NOW > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Here's a new way to find what you're looking for - Answers > > Send FREE SMS to your friend's mobile from Messenger Version 8. > Get it NOW > > > Get your own web address for just $1.99/1st yr. We'll help. Small Business. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Guest guest Report post Posted August 24, 2006 Dear Chandrashekharji Thank you SO much for this detailed and informative reply! What do you think are the chances that there are fungal spores inside a bead, if it was already attacked once on the surface? (The fungus was mostly white) Do you think it is possible for fungal spores to slowly germinate inside a bead - without showing any exterior signs - and thereby slowly destroy the beads from inside out? I am here referring to beads otherwise stored/worn under the right conditions. About the disinfection/germination procedure; will this bring all the remaining spores to germinate? How should the fungicidal agent be applied to the beads? Does coconut oil, sesame oil, olive oil, mustard seed oil have any antifungal properties? Thanks for any further insights! Gratefully, Ole sacred-objects, chandrashekhar phadke <chphadke wrote: > > Dear Ole, > > Thank you very much for your mail. I would suggest you to use any oil for soaking purpose. As mentioned in my ealier posting few days back, you can use coconut oil which is easily available and has antimicrobial properties. Antimicrobial properties of 'Coconut Oil' and 'Sesame Oil' are well known and well studied. After soaking beads and making them thoroughly dry, you can use Sandle Wood Oil externally. I follow the same procedure to protect my precious Rudraksha beads though 'Sandle Wood Oil' is easily available here in India. > > If you are worried about fugal spores present inside the bead, I would suggest you the following procedure. > > Soak your beads in plain water without any detergent. Do not dry them immediately. Allow the fungus spores to germinate. It takes one or two days. Most of the fungal spores are resistant to any fungicidal agents, however, germinating fugal spores are not resistant to fungicides. You can use 0.5 to 1% 'Benomyl' as fungicidal agent. If Benomyl is not available, you can use any broad spectrum fungicide to treat your beads to kill germinating fungal spores. After the treatment of fungicide, thoroughly dry your beads using tissue paper. Oil them with Coconut or Olive Oil. Remove extra oil with tissue. Apply Sandle Wood Oil externally. Always store your beads in airy place. Preferable, wear these beads regularly. Regular wearing will keep insects away. > > Thanking you and with best wishes, > > Chandrashekhar Phadke > > > > alstrup alstrup wrote: > > Pranams > > I really need some qualified input on how I treat my collector size > beads which arrived from India from puja ceremony, where some had some > suffered surface attack of white fungus attack, (they had been packed in > sealed plastic after puja wrapped with bilva leaves so the moisture had > caused some fungal growth) I immediately soaked and cleaned beads with > natural brown soap water and fresh toothbrush and flushed with clean > water and let the beads dry thoroughly. They show no exterior sign of > damage. > > However, I am worried if I just apply sandalwood oil on surface, that > some fungus spores could have survived inside the beads, and if I dont > soak beads in oil, the fungus could perhaps start growing slowly inside > the beads and destroy them from within until I found out and it was then > too late. > > I wonder if pure sandalwood oil has strong antifungal properties useful > for this purpose? I would need to obtain at least 200ml. > > I do have neem oil, which has STRONG antifungal properties, but > Chandrashekharji advised against it, and I also have some concerns, > because of the strong smell and characteristics of this oil. Also > because I dont know how this oil will affect the beads in other ways. > Then there is the traditional mustard and also sesame oil, but I still > need to know if these oils will be able to disinfect the beads > adequately from within from any fungus. > > These beads are some very special higher mukhi collector beads, and > PRICELESS to me so I really need to know what is best to do. > > Chandrashekhar Prabhuji, if you are reading this, I hope for your reply! > > ~ Ole > > sacred-objects, "alstrup" alstrup@ wrote: > > > > > > Dear Chandrashekharji, > > > > Unfortunately I dont have enough pure Sandalwood oil here right now to > > soak all my new beads after the soap/brush/ water cleaning. Will it > > suffice to oil the beads on the surface? What is the advantage of > > soaking, that the oil penetrates deep into the bead? If so, for how > long > > should the beads be soaked for best effect? I do have the sesame oil, > > but I am worried that the beads will assimilate the sesame smell and I > > want to avoid that. What do you think? > > > > Input from others with practical experience of this is highly welcome! > > > > Thanks, > > > > Ole > > > > > > sacred-objects, chandrashekhar phadke > > chphadke@ wrote: > > > > > > Dear Ole, > > > > > > Thank you very much for your mail. I am of the opinion that the > Sandle > > Wood oil may be better than that of the Sesame oil due to its strong > > fragnance to protect beads mainly from insects attack. Shelf life of > > Sandle Oil is more than that of Sesame/Mustard/Oilive Oil. Rudraksha > are > > likely to absorb more quantity of Sandle Wood oil due to its woody > > nature. The best way is to soak rudraksha with any oil having > > antimicrobial and insecticidal properties overnight and after drying > > thoroughly to apply sandle wood oil externally being expensive. > > > > > > Sesame Oil has similar chemical properties to that of Olive Oil > > (Unsaponifable properties). Mustard Oil, Seasame Oil and Coconut Oil > are > > known to have antimicrobial properties. Coconut Oil has more shelf > life > > than that of sesame or mustard oil. However, I do not have any idea > > about the comparative data of Mustard and Sesame Oil. > > > > > > The insect attack on beads is more serious than fungi. In tropical > > climate like India, tiny beetles is the major problem for Rudraksha. > > These beetles can easily drill holes in hard rudraksha stone (fruit) > > damaging the bead. The best way to avoid these beetles is to keep > > rudraksha mala in airy place. In temperate country like yours, beetles > > may not be the problem, however, tiny mites may spoil the bead. Mites > > carry fungus spores with them. Of course, mites are not that serious > > than beetles as far as rudraksha are concerned. > > > > > > In temperate countries, there is no strong Sunlight. In such cases, > > one can store Rudraksha beads with 'Silica Gel' bags to absorb > moisture > > from microclimate of the beads. > > > > > > Thanking you and with best wishes, > > > > > > Chandrashekhar Phadke > > > > > > alstrup alstrup@ wrote: > > > > > > Dear Chandrashekharji, > > > > > > Thank you for the info, it is always nice to get your educated views > > in > > > these matters. Do you consider Mustard oil to be better for beads > than > > > Sesame oil? Should the Sesame oil be cured first, as is recommended > > when > > > it is prepared as ayurvedic massage oil? (This to give it higher > > > absorption rate) What is your insights about > antimicrobial/antifungal > > > properties of pure Sandalwood oil compared to other oils? > > > > > > As it so happens, I just received some fresh beads back from puja in > > > India, some of them had developed some fresh external white fungus, > > > because they had been wrapped in moist bilva leaves and inside a > > sealed > > > plastic bag. I imediately soaked/cleaned beads with pure soapy water > > and > > > toothbrush and soaked/flushed with clean water, also shaking the > beads > > > to get as much water out from inside beads. They are now clean. Then > > > they have dried in air for some days with a towel underneath. Now I > > need > > > to soak them in oil. I have organic sesame oil, but only enough pure > > > sandal wood for external coating. Should I soak overnight in sesame > > oil > > > first, then sun-dry and then apply sandalwood oil? How long should > > beads > > > dry in sun? What if there is no useful sunlight? > > > > > > Thanking you as always for your insights in these matters, > > > > > > ~ Ole > > > sacred-objects, chandrashekhar phadke > > > chphadke@ wrote: > > > > > > > > Dear Ole, > > > > > > > > Neem oil, though has antimicrobial properties, is thick and has > very > > > strong smell. The disadvantage of using thick oil is that it gets > > > polymerised in few days making its consistency like a thick paste > and > > > therefore is not suitable for Rudraksha. > > > > > > > > Oil is mainly used to protect beads from microbial infection and > to > > > give lustre to beads. Other than Mustard Oil, 'Til Oil (Sesame Oil)' > > is > > > the best preservative for rudraksha beads. It has antifungal > > properties. > > > 'Til Oil' is also considered as auspicious. 'Til Oil' lamp is > believed > > > to emit positive energy. In Maharashtra State of India, it is a > usual > > > practice to lit 'Til Oil' lamp near the Puja altar. > > > > > > > > With best wishes, > > > > > > > > Chandrashekhar Phadke > > > > > > > > > > > > alstrup alstrup@ wrote: > > > > > > > > Dear Alok Ji, > > > > > > > > Thanks for your input. Neem oil was previously discussed here, I > > > raised > > > > the point that pure coldpressed neem oil, which contains the > > > beneficial > > > > antimicrobial compunds, also has a very strong smell, so I am not > > sure > > > > this will be preferable, as the beads will get acquire the same > > strong > > > > smell. But I have no actual experience. > > > > > > > > As for the traditional use of mustard seed oil, is there a > specific > > > > preference; from yellow or dark seeds, or does it matter? Does the > > oil > > > > need to cured first; heated up to 100 degress celcius and the > cooled > > > > down? > > > > > > > > What is the "phoolkumari" oil made of? > > > > > > > > Thanks, > > > > > > > > ~Ole > > > > > > > > sacred-objects, "a_jagawat" a_jagawat@ > > > > wrote: > > > > > > > > > > Dear Sir, > > > > > > > > > > Mustard oil protects the bead from harmful effects of > degradation > > > > > and it definitley preserves the bead. You can also use Neem oil > > for > > > > > the same. One of the bigger Rudraksha seller i know, uses some > > > > > " Phoolkumari" oil for the same. Most of them use Mustard oil > > > > > usually and keep them soaked in oil. > > > > > > > > > > Regards, > > > > > > > > > > Alok > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > sacred-objects, "alstrup" alstrup@ wrote: > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Is it necessary to soak beads and for what reasons? > > > > > > > > > > > > I am not sure that olive oil is good for beads, as it was not > in > > > > > use in > > > > > > India, we dont know if it could reduce the longevity of the > wood > > > > > of the > > > > > > beads over many years? There could be a good reason why > mustard > > > > > oil is > > > > > > traditionally used, according to ayurveda, it is a drying oil, > > > > > perhaps > > > > > > the fatty acid composition of mustard oil has a preservation > > > > > effect. > > > > > > There should definitely be done some research on this topic. > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Ole > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > sacred-objects, "Mahamuni Das" > > <mahamuni@> > > > > > > wrote: > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Any will do. I normally use olive oil. Traditionally mustard > > oil > > > > > is > > > > > > used, but I don't particularly like the smell. When just doing > a > > > > > quick > > > > > > fix for a bead or mala, I use Sandlewood Oil, which is > > definitely > > > > > my > > > > > > favorite to use, but is quite costly. When I do a good 1-2 day > > > > > soak, I > > > > > > use Olive and then follow with a light Sandlewood for scent. > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Surya > > > > > > > > > > > > > > - > > > > > > > alphanov2@ > > > > > > > sacred-objects > > > > > > > Wednesday, August 16, 2006 6:43 AM > > > > > > > Re: Re: Rudraksha bead quality > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > What are the best oils for soaking a rudraksha bead? > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Here's a new way to find what you're looking for - Answers > > > > Send FREE SMS to your friend's mobile from Messenger > Version > > 8. > > > Get it NOW > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Here's a new way to find what you're looking for - Answers > > > Send FREE SMS to your friend's mobile from Messenger Version > 8. > > Get it NOW > > > > > > Here's a new way to find what you're looking for - Answers > Send FREE SMS to your friend's mobile from Messenger Version 8. 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Guest guest Report post Posted August 24, 2006 Dear Mahamuni & Ole, Re the rudraksha problems – please note the following. I was fortunate learn a lot about Rudrakshas from the world famous Radraksha expert and astrologer K.T.Shubhakaran (Author of Nakshatra based predictions, Mystical formulae, Rudraksha the Bead Divine, Sri Rudram Decoded). I followed his advise and to this date in nearly 8 years never had any preserving/fungal problems. Do as follows: As soon as you get Rudrakshas wash them in Gangajal. It's a super purifier. If you don't have Gangajal, boil water, take the vessel off the stove and dip the Rudrakshas in it for about 15 minits. Never apply any soap or detergent. Let them dry fully. After they are dry apply Mustard oil generously. If necessary soak in mustard oil. Of the commonly available oils it's the best. Of course if you can get – and afford – Sandalwood oil, nothing like it. Avoid coconut oil and ghee which solidify in cold conditions. Apply a coat of oil once in every 3-4 months. Om Namo Bhagavate Rudraya On 8/24/06, Simone <shombaz > wrote: > > Hi Alstrup > > Mustard seed oil is the best oil among all the oils for treating the > rudraksha seeds. Since you have collector beads, get the traditional ( with > the indian brand ) mustard seed oil ( for cooking ) for your beads. Mustard > by itself has very good energy clearing properties, very very good for > protection of rudraksha seeds then olive oil. Mustard oil is much ticker > and heavier then most oil. > > Sandalwood oil is just for the sake of good smell. Properties wise - in > my opinion just good for the smell - and expensive too - ( the real ones ) > > If you really want to clear the fungus ... boil the seeds in water for a 2 > - 3 minutes and quickly wash in cold water. let it dry and then put the > oil. > > i have tried all this - in case you are wondering - for my own beads .... > > bye the way -- wouldnt the priest know that wrapping the beads in leaves > will cause fungus !!! > > simone > > > > > *alstrup <alstrup >* wrote: > > > Pranams > > I really need some qualified input on how I treat my collector size > beads which arrived from India from puja ceremony, where some had some > suffered surface attack of white fungus attack, (they had been packed in > sealed plastic after puja wrapped with bilva leaves so the moisture had > caused some fungal growth) I immediately soaked and cleaned beads with > natural brown soap water and fresh toothbrush and flushed with clean > water and let the beads dry thoroughly. They show no exterior sign of > damage. > > However, I am worried if I just apply sandalwood oil on surface, that > some fungus spores could have survived inside the beads, and if I dont > soak beads in oil, the fungus could perhaps start growing slowly inside > the beads and destroy them from within until I found out and it was then > too late. > > I wonder if pure sandalwood oil has strong antifungal properties useful > for this purpose? I would need to obtain at least 200ml. > > I do have neem oil, which has STRONG antifungal properties, but > Chandrashekharji advised against it, and I also have some concerns, > because of the strong smell and characteristics of this oil. Also > because I dont know how this oil will affect the beads in other ways. > Then there is the traditional mustard and also sesame oil, but I still > need to know if these oils will be able to disinfect the beads > adequately from within from any fungus. > > These beads are some very special higher mukhi collector beads, and > PRICELESS to me so I really need to know what is best to do. > > Chandrashekhar Prabhuji, if you are reading this, I hope for your reply! > > ~ Ole > > sacred-objects <sacred-objects%40>, > "alstrup" <alstrup wrote: > > > > > > Dear Chandrashekharji, > > > > Unfortunately I dont have enough pure Sandalwood oil here right now to > > soak all my new beads after the soap/brush/ water cleaning. Will it > > suffice to oil the beads on the surface? What is the advantage of > > soaking, that the oil penetrates deep into the bead? If so, for how > long > > should the beads be soaked for best effect? I do have the sesame oil, > > but I am worried that the beads will assimilate the sesame smell and I > > want to avoid that. What do you think? > > > > Input from others with practical experience of this is highly welcome! > > > > Thanks, > > > > Ole > > > > > > sacred-objects <sacred-objects%40>, > chandrashekhar phadke > > chphadke@ wrote: > > > > > > Dear Ole, > > > > > > Thank you very much for your mail. I am of the opinion that the > Sandle > > Wood oil may be better than that of the Sesame oil due to its strong > > fragnance to protect beads mainly from insects attack. Shelf life of > > Sandle Oil is more than that of Sesame/Mustard/Oilive Oil. Rudraksha > are > > likely to absorb more quantity of Sandle Wood oil due to its woody > > nature. The best way is to soak rudraksha with any oil having > > antimicrobial and insecticidal properties overnight and after drying > > thoroughly to apply sandle wood oil externally being expensive. > > > > > > Sesame Oil has similar chemical properties to that of Olive Oil > > (Unsaponifable properties). Mustard Oil, Seasame Oil and Coconut Oil > are > > known to have antimicrobial properties. Coconut Oil has more shelf > life > > than that of sesame or mustard oil. However, I do not have any idea > > about the comparative data of Mustard and Sesame Oil. > > > > > > The insect attack on beads is more serious than fungi. In tropical > > climate like India, tiny beetles is the major problem for Rudraksha. > > These beetles can easily drill holes in hard rudraksha stone (fruit) > > damaging the bead. The best way to avoid these beetles is to keep > > rudraksha mala in airy place. In temperate country like yours, beetles > > may not be the problem, however, tiny mites may spoil the bead. Mites > > carry fungus spores with them. Of course, mites are not that serious > > than beetles as far as rudraksha are concerned. > > > > > > In temperate countries, there is no strong Sunlight. In such cases, > > one can store Rudraksha beads with 'Silica Gel' bags to absorb > moisture > > from microclimate of the beads. > > > > > > Thanking you and with best wishes, > > > > > > Chandrashekhar Phadke > > > > > > alstrup alstrup@ wrote: > > > > > > Dear Chandrashekharji, > > > > > > Thank you for the info, it is always nice to get your educated views > > in > > > these matters. Do you consider Mustard oil to be better for beads > than > > > Sesame oil? Should the Sesame oil be cured first, as is recommended > > when > > > it is prepared as ayurvedic massage oil? (This to give it higher > > > absorption rate) What is your insights about > antimicrobial/antifungal > > > properties of pure Sandalwood oil compared to other oils? > > > > > > As it so happens, I just received some fresh beads back from puja in > > > India, some of them had developed some fresh external white fungus, > > > because they had been wrapped in moist bilva leaves and inside a > > sealed > > > plastic bag. I imediately soaked/cleaned beads with pure soapy water > > and > > > toothbrush and soaked/flushed with clean water, also shaking the > beads > > > to get as much water out from inside beads. They are now clean. Then > > > they have dried in air for some days with a towel underneath. Now I > > need > > > to soak them in oil. I have organic sesame oil, but only enough pure > > > sandal wood for external coating. Should I soak overnight in sesame > > oil > > > first, then sun-dry and then apply sandalwood oil? How long should > > beads > > > dry in sun? What if there is no useful sunlight? > > > > > > Thanking you as always for your insights in these matters, > > > > > > ~ Ole > > > sacred-objects<sacred-objects%40>, > chandrashekhar phadke > > > chphadke@ wrote: > > > > > > > > Dear Ole, > > > > > > > > Neem oil, though has antimicrobial properties, is thick and has > very > > > strong smell. The disadvantage of using thick oil is that it gets > > > polymerised in few days making its consistency like a thick paste > and > > > therefore is not suitable for Rudraksha. > > > > > > > > Oil is mainly used to protect beads from microbial infection and > to > > > give lustre to beads. Other than Mustard Oil, 'Til Oil (Sesame Oil)' > > is > > > the best preservative for rudraksha beads. It has antifungal > > properties. > > > 'Til Oil' is also considered as auspicious. 'Til Oil' lamp is > believed > > > to emit positive energy. In Maharashtra State of India, it is a > usual > > > practice to lit 'Til Oil' lamp near the Puja altar. > > > > > > > > With best wishes, > > > > > > > > Chandrashekhar Phadke > > > > > > > > > > > > alstrup alstrup@ wrote: > > > > > > > > Dear Alok Ji, > > > > > > > > Thanks for your input. Neem oil was previously discussed here, I > > > raised > > > > the point that pure coldpressed neem oil, which contains the > > > beneficial > > > > antimicrobial compunds, also has a very strong smell, so I am not > > sure > > > > this will be preferable, as the beads will get acquire the same > > strong > > > > smell. But I have no actual experience. > > > > > > > > As for the traditional use of mustard seed oil, is there a > specific > > > > preference; from yellow or dark seeds, or does it matter? Does the > > oil > > > > need to cured first; heated up to 100 degress celcius and the > cooled > > > > down? > > > > > > > > What is the "phoolkumari" oil made of? > > > > > > > > Thanks, > > > > > > > > ~Ole > > > > > > > > sacred-objects<sacred-objects%40>, > "a_jagawat" a_jagawat@ > > > > wrote: > > > > > > > > > > Dear Sir, > > > > > > > > > > Mustard oil protects the bead from harmful effects of > degradation > > > > > and it definitley preserves the bead. You can also use Neem oil > > for > > > > > the same. One of the bigger Rudraksha seller i know, uses some > > > > > " Phoolkumari" oil for the same. Most of them use Mustard oil > > > > > usually and keep them soaked in oil. > > > > > > > > > > Regards, > > > > > > > > > > Alok > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > sacred-objects<sacred-objects%40>, > "alstrup" alstrup@ wrote: > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Is it necessary to soak beads and for what reasons? > > > > > > > > > > > > I am not sure that olive oil is good for beads, as it was not > in > > > > > use in > > > > > > India, we dont know if it could reduce the longevity of the > wood > > > > > of the > > > > > > beads over many years? There could be a good reason why > mustard > > > > > oil is > > > > > > traditionally used, according to ayurveda, it is a drying oil, > > > > > perhaps > > > > > > the fatty acid composition of mustard oil has a preservation > > > > > effect. > > > > > > There should definitely be done some research on this topic. > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Ole > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > sacred-objects<sacred-objects%40>, > "Mahamuni Das" > > <mahamuni@> > > > > > > wrote: > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Any will do. I normally use olive oil. Traditionally mustard > > oil > > > > > is > > > > > > used, but I don't particularly like the smell. When just doing > a > > > > > quick > > > > > > fix for a bead or mala, I use Sandlewood Oil, which is > > definitely > > > > > my > > > > > > favorite to use, but is quite costly. When I do a good 1-2 day > > > > > soak, I > > > > > > use Olive and then follow with a light Sandlewood for scent. > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Surya > > > > > > > > > > > > > > - > > > > > > > alphanov2@ > > > > > > > sacred-objects<sacred-objects%40> > > > > > > > Wednesday, August 16, 2006 6:43 AM > > > > > > > Re: Re: Rudraksha bead quality > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > What are the best oils for soaking a rudraksha bead? > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Here's a new way to find what you're looking for - Answers > > > > Send FREE SMS to your friend's mobile from Messenger > Version > > 8. > > > Get it NOW > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Here's a new way to find what you're looking for - Answers > > > Send FREE SMS to your friend's mobile from Messenger Version > 8. > > Get it NOW > > > > > > > > > > ------------------------------ > Get your own web address for just $1.99/1st yr. We'll help. Small > Business<http://us.rd./evt=41244/*http://smallbusiness./>. > > > > -- With best wishes Pandit S.P.Tata H-5/3, 3rd Floor Malviya Nagar New Delhi - 110017 Phone: 91-11-26680664 (Exclusive for incoming), 91-11-26673281, Mobile: 9911119235. Email to: sptata Website: www.astrojyoti.com You can contact me online 10 Am to 8 Pm IST with: Messengers - the user ID is s_p_tata. MSN Messenger - the user ID is s_p_tata (AT) hotmail (DOT) com Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Guest guest Report post Posted August 24, 2006 Coconut oil is always liquid in India, as the indian room temp is a bit higher, didnt you know? [] [] I know about the leaf extract from health food supplements, most of the action is sad to be from oleuropein, but there is a cocktail of 95 dfferent chemicals in the leaf, so could be a synergistc effect. Extra virgin olive oil is said to have 10 times higher amount of oleuropin than virgin oil, but I am looking for the ratios right now. ~ Ole sacred-objects, "Mahamuni Das" <mahamuni wrote: > > But coconut oil becomes solid readily at room temp. Why use it? How can you soak it in this? It becomes like butter. > > Olive or Sesame sounds like a better bet. > > Did anyone know that the Olive leaf has anti microbial properties. Anti fungal, anti viral and anti bacterial. I am sure this does not apply to the fruit in the same way, but possibly some like characteristics are there as well, though in much reduced quantity. > > Jai Maa! > > Surya > - > chandrashekhar phadke > sacred-objects > Thursday, August 24, 2006 3:01 AM > Re: Rudraksha oil treatment ! > > > > Dear Ole, > > Thank you very much for your mail. I would suggest you to use any oil for soaking purpose. As mentioned in my ealier posting few days back, you can use coconut oil which is easily available and has antimicrobial properties. Antimicrobial properties of 'Coconut Oil' and 'Sesame Oil' are well known and well studied. After soaking beads and making them thoroughly dry, you can use Sandle Wood Oil externally. I follow the same procedure to protect my precious Rudraksha beads though 'Sandle Wood Oil' is easily available here in India. > > If you are worried about fugal spores present inside the bead, I would suggest you the following procedure. > > Soak your beads in plain water without any detergent. Do not dry them immediately. Allow the fungus spores to germinate. It takes one or two days. Most of the fungal spores are resistant to any fungicidal agents, however, germinating fugal spores are not resistant to fungicides. You can use 0.5 to 1% 'Benomyl' as fungicidal agent. If Benomyl is not available, you can use any broad spectrum fungicide to treat your beads to kill germinating fungal spores. After the treatment of fungicide, thoroughly dry your beads using tissue paper. Oil them with Coconut or Olive Oil. Remove extra oil with tissue. Apply Sandle Wood Oil externally. Always store your beads in airy place. Preferable, wear these beads regularly. Regular wearing will keep insects away. > > Thanking you and with best wishes, > > Chandrashekhar Phadke > > > > alstrup alstrup wrote: > > Pranams > > I really need some qualified input on how I treat my collector size > beads which arrived from India from puja ceremony, where some had some > suffered surface attack of white fungus attack, (they had been packed in > sealed plastic after puja wrapped with bilva leaves so the moisture had > caused some fungal growth) I immediately soaked and cleaned beads with > natural brown soap water and fresh toothbrush and flushed with clean > water and let the beads dry thoroughly. They show no exterior sign of > damage. > > However, I am worried if I just apply sandalwood oil on surface, that > some fungus spores could have survived inside the beads, and if I dont > soak beads in oil, the fungus could perhaps start growing slowly inside > the beads and destroy them from within until I found out and it was then > too late. > > I wonder if pure sandalwood oil has strong antifungal properties useful > for this purpose? I would need to obtain at least 200ml. > > I do have neem oil, which has STRONG antifungal properties, but > Chandrashekharji advised against it, and I also have some concerns, > because of the strong smell and characteristics of this oil. Also > because I dont know how this oil will affect the beads in other ways. > Then there is the traditional mustard and also sesame oil, but I still > need to know if these oils will be able to disinfect the beads > adequately from within from any fungus. > > These beads are some very special higher mukhi collector beads, and > PRICELESS to me so I really need to know what is best to do. > > Chandrashekhar Prabhuji, if you are reading this, I hope for your reply! > > ~ Ole Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Guest guest Report post Posted August 24, 2006 In any case, I am sure olive oil is good for the bead, not bad. You don't live in India, so coconut oil is not an option for you. Surya - alstrup sacred-objects Thursday, August 24, 2006 9:59 AM Re: Rudraksha oil treatment ! Coconut oil is always liquid in India, as the indian room temp is a bit higher, didnt you know? I know about the leaf extract from health food supplements, most of the action is sad to be from oleuropein, but there is a cocktail of 95 dfferent chemicals in the leaf, so could be a synergistc effect. Extra virgin olive oil is said to have 10 times higher amount of oleuropin than virgin oil, but I am looking for the ratios right now. ~ Ole sacred-objects, "Mahamuni Das" <mahamuni wrote: > > But coconut oil becomes solid readily at room temp. Why use it? How can you soak it in this? It becomes like butter. > > Olive or Sesame sounds like a better bet. > > Did anyone know that the Olive leaf has anti microbial properties. Anti fungal, anti viral and anti bacterial. I am sure this does not apply to the fruit in the same way, but possibly some like characteristics are there as well, though in much reduced quantity. > > Jai Maa! > > Surya > - > chandrashekhar phadke > sacred-objects > Thursday, August 24, 2006 3:01 AM > Re: Rudraksha oil treatment ! > > > > Dear Ole, > > Thank you very much for your mail. I would suggest you to use any oil for soaking purpose. As mentioned in my ealier posting few days back, you can use coconut oil which is easily available and has antimicrobial properties. Antimicrobial properties of 'Coconut Oil' and 'Sesame Oil' are well known and well studied. After soaking beads and making them thoroughly dry, you can use Sandle Wood Oil externally. I follow the same procedure to protect my precious Rudraksha beads though 'Sandle Wood Oil' is easily available here in India. > > If you are worried about fugal spores present inside the bead, I would suggest you the following procedure. > > Soak your beads in plain water without any detergent. Do not dry them immediately. Allow the fungus spores to germinate. It takes one or two days. Most of the fungal spores are resistant to any fungicidal agents, however, germinating fugal spores are not resistant to fungicides. You can use 0.5 to 1% 'Benomyl' as fungicidal agent. If Benomyl is not available, you can use any broad spectrum fungicide to treat your beads to kill germinating fungal spores. After the treatment of fungicide, thoroughly dry your beads using tissue paper. Oil them with Coconut or Olive Oil. Remove extra oil with tissue. Apply Sandle Wood Oil externally. Always store your beads in airy place. Preferable, wear these beads regularly. Regular wearing will keep insects away. > > Thanking you and with best wishes, > > Chandrashekhar Phadke > > > > alstrup alstrup wrote: > > Pranams > > I really need some qualified input on how I treat my collector size > beads which arrived from India from puja ceremony, where some had some > suffered surface attack of white fungus attack, (they had been packed in > sealed plastic after puja wrapped with bilva leaves so the moisture had > caused some fungal growth) I immediately soaked and cleaned beads with > natural brown soap water and fresh toothbrush and flushed with clean > water and let the beads dry thoroughly. They show no exterior sign of > damage. > > However, I am worried if I just apply sandalwood oil on surface, that > some fungus spores could have survived inside the beads, and if I dont > soak beads in oil, the fungus could perhaps start growing slowly inside > the beads and destroy them from within until I found out and it was then > too late. > > I wonder if pure sandalwood oil has strong antifungal properties useful > for this purpose? I would need to obtain at least 200ml. > > I do have neem oil, which has STRONG antifungal properties, but > Chandrashekharji advised against it, and I also have some concerns, > because of the strong smell and characteristics of this oil. Also > because I dont know how this oil will affect the beads in other ways. > Then there is the traditional mustard and also sesame oil, but I still > need to know if these oils will be able to disinfect the beads > adequately from within from any fungus. > > These beads are some very special higher mukhi collector beads, and > PRICELESS to me so I really need to know what is best to do. > > Chandrashekhar Prabhuji, if you are reading this, I hope for your reply! > > ~ Ole Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Guest guest Report post Posted August 24, 2006 hi all! I think even Rudraksha oil ( base mustard oil ) is very good thing for beads.But it takes around 60-90 days to make rudraksha oil.Once made it can be used for months and it brings glow and health to rudrakshas. Second choice is mustard oil. thanks amit uniyal www.devshoppe.com sacred-objects, "Pt Siva Prasad Tata" <sptata wrote: > > Dear Mahamuni & Ole, > Re the rudraksha problems � please note the following. > I was fortunate learn a lot about Rudrakshas from the world famous Radraksha > expert and astrologer K.T.Shubhakaran (Author of Nakshatra based > predictions, Mystical formulae, Rudraksha the Bead Divine, Sri Rudram > Decoded). I followed his advise and to this date in nearly 8 years never had > any preserving/fungal problems. Do as follows: > As soon as you get Rudrakshas wash them in Gangajal. It's a super purifier. > If you don't have Gangajal, boil water, take the vessel off the stove and > dip the Rudrakshas in it for about 15 minits. > Never apply any soap or detergent. > Let them dry fully. > After they are dry apply Mustard oil generously. If necessary soak in > mustard oil. Of the commonly available oils it's the best. Of course if you > can get � and afford � Sandalwood oil, nothing like it. Avoid coconut oil > and ghee which solidify in cold conditions. > Apply a coat of oil once in every 3-4 months. > Om Namo Bhagavate Rudraya > > > > On 8/24/06, Simone <shombaz wrote: > > > > Hi Alstrup > > > > Mustard seed oil is the best oil among all the oils for treating the > > rudraksha seeds. Since you have collector beads, get the traditional ( with > > the indian brand ) mustard seed oil ( for cooking ) for your beads. Mustard > > by itself has very good energy clearing properties, very very good for > > protection of rudraksha seeds then olive oil. Mustard oil is much ticker > > and heavier then most oil. > > > > Sandalwood oil is just for the sake of good smell. Properties wise - in > > my opinion just good for the smell - and expensive too - ( the real ones ) > > > > If you really want to clear the fungus ... boil the seeds in water for a 2 > > - 3 minutes and quickly wash in cold water. let it dry and then put the > > oil. > > > > i have tried all this - in case you are wondering - for my own beads .... > > > > bye the way -- wouldnt the priest know that wrapping the beads in leaves > > will cause fungus !!! > > > > simone > > > > > > > > > > *alstrup <alstrup* wrote: > > > > > > Pranams > > > > I really need some qualified input on how I treat my collector size > > beads which arrived from India from puja ceremony, where some had some > > suffered surface attack of white fungus attack, (they had been packed in > > sealed plastic after puja wrapped with bilva leaves so the moisture had > > caused some fungal growth) I immediately soaked and cleaned beads with > > natural brown soap water and fresh toothbrush and flushed with clean > > water and let the beads dry thoroughly. They show no exterior sign of > > damage. > > > > However, I am worried if I just apply sandalwood oil on surface, that > > some fungus spores could have survived inside the beads, and if I dont > > soak beads in oil, the fungus could perhaps start growing slowly inside > > the beads and destroy them from within until I found out and it was then > > too late. > > > > I wonder if pure sandalwood oil has strong antifungal properties useful > > for this purpose? I would need to obtain at least 200ml. > > > > I do have neem oil, which has STRONG antifungal properties, but > > Chandrashekharji advised against it, and I also have some concerns, > > because of the strong smell and characteristics of this oil. Also > > because I dont know how this oil will affect the beads in other ways. > > Then there is the traditional mustard and also sesame oil, but I still > > need to know if these oils will be able to disinfect the beads > > adequately from within from any fungus. > > > > These beads are some very special higher mukhi collector beads, and > > PRICELESS to me so I really need to know what is best to do. > > > > Chandrashekhar Prabhuji, if you are reading this, I hope for your reply! > > > > ~ Ole > > > > sacred-objects <sacred-objects%40>, > > "alstrup" <alstrup@> wrote: > > > > > > > > > Dear Chandrashekharji, > > > > > > Unfortunately I dont have enough pure Sandalwood oil here right now to > > > soak all my new beads after the soap/brush/ water cleaning. Will it > > > suffice to oil the beads on the surface? What is the advantage of > > > soaking, that the oil penetrates deep into the bead? If so, for how > > long > > > should the beads be soaked for best effect? I do have the sesame oil, > > > but I am worried that the beads will assimilate the sesame smell and I > > > want to avoid that. What do you think? > > > > > > Input from others with practical experience of this is highly welcome! > > > > > > Thanks, > > > > > > Ole > > > > > > > > > sacred-objects <sacred-objects%40>, > > chandrashekhar phadke > > > chphadke@ wrote: > > > > > > > > Dear Ole, > > > > > > > > Thank you very much for your mail. I am of the opinion that the > > Sandle > > > Wood oil may be better than that of the Sesame oil due to its strong > > > fragnance to protect beads mainly from insects attack. Shelf life of > > > Sandle Oil is more than that of Sesame/Mustard/Oilive Oil. Rudraksha > > are > > > likely to absorb more quantity of Sandle Wood oil due to its woody > > > nature. The best way is to soak rudraksha with any oil having > > > antimicrobial and insecticidal properties overnight and after drying > > > thoroughly to apply sandle wood oil externally being expensive. > > > > > > > > Sesame Oil has similar chemical properties to that of Olive Oil > > > (Unsaponifable properties). Mustard Oil, Seasame Oil and Coconut Oil > > are > > > known to have antimicrobial properties. Coconut Oil has more shelf > > life > > > than that of sesame or mustard oil. However, I do not have any idea > > > about the comparative data of Mustard and Sesame Oil. > > > > > > > > The insect attack on beads is more serious than fungi. In tropical > > > climate like India, tiny beetles is the major problem for Rudraksha. > > > These beetles can easily drill holes in hard rudraksha stone (fruit) > > > damaging the bead. The best way to avoid these beetles is to keep > > > rudraksha mala in airy place. In temperate country like yours, beetles > > > may not be the problem, however, tiny mites may spoil the bead. Mites > > > carry fungus spores with them. Of course, mites are not that serious > > > than beetles as far as rudraksha are concerned. > > > > > > > > In temperate countries, there is no strong Sunlight. In such cases, > > > one can store Rudraksha beads with 'Silica Gel' bags to absorb > > moisture > > > from microclimate of the beads. > > > > > > > > Thanking you and with best wishes, > > > > > > > > Chandrashekhar Phadke > > > > > > > > alstrup alstrup@ wrote: > > > > > > > > Dear Chandrashekharji, > > > > > > > > Thank you for the info, it is always nice to get your educated views > > > in > > > > these matters. Do you consider Mustard oil to be better for beads > > than > > > > Sesame oil? Should the Sesame oil be cured first, as is recommended > > > when > > > > it is prepared as ayurvedic massage oil? (This to give it higher > > > > absorption rate) What is your insights about > > antimicrobial/antifungal > > > > properties of pure Sandalwood oil compared to other oils? > > > > > > > > As it so happens, I just received some fresh beads back from puja in > > > > India, some of them had developed some fresh external white fungus, > > > > because they had been wrapped in moist bilva leaves and inside a > > > sealed > > > > plastic bag. I imediately soaked/cleaned beads with pure soapy water > > > and > > > > toothbrush and soaked/flushed with clean water, also shaking the > > beads > > > > to get as much water out from inside beads. They are now clean. Then > > > > they have dried in air for some days with a towel underneath. Now I > > > need > > > > to soak them in oil. I have organic sesame oil, but only enough pure > > > > sandal wood for external coating. Should I soak overnight in sesame > > > oil > > > > first, then sun-dry and then apply sandalwood oil? How long should > > > beads > > > > dry in sun? What if there is no useful sunlight? > > > > > > > > Thanking you as always for your insights in these matters, > > > > > > > > ~ Ole > > > > --- In sacred-objects<sacred-objects%40>, > > chandrashekhar phadke > > > > chphadke@ wrote: > > > > > > > > > > Dear Ole, > > > > > > > > > > Neem oil, though has antimicrobial properties, is thick and has > > very > > > > strong smell. The disadvantage of using thick oil is that it gets > > > > polymerised in few days making its consistency like a thick paste > > and > > > > therefore is not suitable for Rudraksha. > > > > > > > > > > Oil is mainly used to protect beads from microbial infection and > > to > > > > give lustre to beads. Other than Mustard Oil, 'Til Oil (Sesame Oil)' > > > is > > > > the best preservative for rudraksha beads. It has antifungal > > > properties. > > > > 'Til Oil' is also considered as auspicious. 'Til Oil' lamp is > > believed > > > > to emit positive energy. In Maharashtra State of India, it is a > > usual > > > > practice to lit 'Til Oil' lamp near the Puja altar. > > > > > > > > > > With best wishes, > > > > > > > > > > Chandrashekhar Phadke > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > alstrup alstrup@ wrote: > > > > > > > > > > Dear Alok Ji, > > > > > > > > > > Thanks for your input. Neem oil was previously discussed here, I > > > > raised > > > > > the point that pure coldpressed neem oil, which contains the > > > > beneficial > > > > > antimicrobial compunds, also has a very strong smell, so I am not > > > sure > > > > > this will be preferable, as the beads will get acquire the same > > > strong > > > > > smell. But I have no actual experience. > > > > > > > > > > As for the traditional use of mustard seed oil, is there a > > specific > > > > > preference; from yellow or dark seeds, or does it matter? Does the > > > oil > > > > > need to cured first; heated up to 100 degress celcius and the > > cooled > > > > > down? > > > > > > > > > > What is the "phoolkumari" oil made of? > > > > > > > > > > Thanks, > > > > > > > > > > ~Ole > > > > > > > > > > --- In sacred-objects<sacred-objects%40>, > > "a_jagawat" a_jagawat@ > > > > > wrote: > > > > > > > > > > > > Dear Sir, > > > > > > > > > > > > Mustard oil protects the bead from harmful effects of > > degradation > > > > > > and it definitley preserves the bead. You can also use Neem oil > > > for > > > > > > the same. One of the bigger Rudraksha seller i know, uses some > > > > > > " Phoolkumari" oil for the same. Most of them use Mustard oil > > > > > > usually and keep them soaked in oil. > > > > > > > > > > > > Regards, > > > > > > > > > > > > Alok > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In sacred-objects<sacred-objects%40>, > > "alstrup" alstrup@ wrote: > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Is it necessary to soak beads and for what reasons? > > > > > > > > > > > > > > I am not sure that olive oil is good for beads, as it was not > > in > > > > > > use in > > > > > > > India, we dont know if it could reduce the longevity of the > > wood > > > > > > of the > > > > > > > beads over many years? There could be a good reason why > > mustard > > > > > > oil is > > > > > > > traditionally used, according to ayurveda, it is a drying oil, > > > > > > perhaps > > > > > > > the fatty acid composition of mustard oil has a preservation > > > > > > effect. > > > > > > > There should definitely be done some research on this topic. > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Ole > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In sacred-objects<sacred-objects%40>, > > "Mahamuni Das" > > > <mahamuni@> > > > > > > > wrote: > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Any will do. I normally use olive oil. Traditionally mustard > > > oil > > > > > > is > > > > > > > used, but I don't particularly like the smell. When just doing > > a > > > > > > quick > > > > > > > fix for a bead or mala, I use Sandlewood Oil, which is > > > definitely > > > > > > my > > > > > > > favorite to use, but is quite costly. When I do a good 1-2 day > > > > > > soak, I > > > > > > > use Olive and then follow with a light Sandlewood for scent. > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Surya > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > - > > > > > > > > alphanov2@ > > > > > > > > To: sacred-objects<sacred-objects%40> > > > > > > > > Wednesday, August 16, 2006 6:43 AM > > > > > > > > Re: Re: Rudraksha bead quality > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > What are the best oils for soaking a rudraksha bead? > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Here's a new way to find what you're looking for - Answers > > > > > Send FREE SMS to your friend's mobile from Messenger > > Version > > > 8. > > > > Get it NOW > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Here's a new way to find what you're looking for - Answers > > > > Send FREE SMS to your friend's mobile from Messenger Version > > 8. > > > Get it NOW > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > ------------------------------ > > Get your own web address for just $1.99/1st yr. We'll help. Small > > Business<http://us.rd./evt=41244/*http://smallbusiness./>. > > > > > > > > > > > > -- > With best wishes > Pandit S.P.Tata > H-5/3, 3rd Floor > Malviya Nagar > New Delhi - 110017 > Phone: 91-11-26680664 (Exclusive for incoming), 91-11-26673281, Mobile: > 9911119235. > Email to: sptata > Website: www.astrojyoti.com > You can contact me online 10 Am to 8 Pm IST with: > Messengers - the user ID is s_p_tata. > MSN Messenger - the user ID is s_p_tata > Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Guest guest Report post Posted August 24, 2006 Hi Simone I guess there must be a good reason why mustard seed oil is traditionally chosen for treating Rudraksha beads instead of Sesame oil... I dont think I would EVER boil the HOLY LIVING Rudrakshas, to me they are selfmanfested deities of the Gods! [] The boling would not kill the fungus spores either...better to apply/soak in a potent fungicide, maybe even a natural one like colloidal silver or GSE solution... You know, I dont think the priest in the temple would know that the beads with the bilva leaves would be sealed inside a plastic bag and sent to a foreign country, I guess this was what caused it, because moisture could not evaporate. I had my beads offered loose and Rudra Centre sent the beads inside the leaves, which was a nice gesture in itself, I guess to show how the beads were offered. ~ Ole sacred-objects, Simone <shombaz wrote: > > Hi Alstrup > > Mustard seed oil is the best oil among all the oils for treating the rudraksha seeds. Since you have collector beads, get the traditional ( with the indian brand ) mustard seed oil ( for cooking ) for your beads. Mustard by itself has very good energy clearing properties, very very good for protection of rudraksha seeds then olive oil. Mustard oil is much ticker and heavier then most oil. > > Sandalwood oil is just for the sake of good smell. Properties wise - in my opinion just good for the smell - and expensive too - ( the real ones ) > > If you really want to clear the fungus ... boil the seeds in water for a 2 - 3 minutes and quickly wash in cold water. let it dry and then put the oil. > > i have tried all this - in case you are wondering - for my own beads ..... > > bye the way -- wouldnt the priest know that wrapping the beads in leaves will cause fungus !!! > > simone > > > > > alstrup alstrup wrote: > > Pranams > > I really need some qualified input on how I treat my collector size > beads which arrived from India from puja ceremony, where some had some > suffered surface attack of white fungus attack, (they had been packed in > sealed plastic after puja wrapped with bilva leaves so the moisture had > caused some fungal growth) I immediately soaked and cleaned beads with > natural brown soap water and fresh toothbrush and flushed with clean > water and let the beads dry thoroughly. They show no exterior sign of > damage. > > However, I am worried if I just apply sandalwood oil on surface, that > some fungus spores could have survived inside the beads, and if I dont > soak beads in oil, the fungus could perhaps start growing slowly inside > the beads and destroy them from within until I found out and it was then > too late. > > I wonder if pure sandalwood oil has strong antifungal properties useful > for this purpose? I would need to obtain at least 200ml. > > I do have neem oil, which has STRONG antifungal properties, but > Chandrashekharji advised against it, and I also have some concerns, > because of the strong smell and characteristics of this oil. Also > because I dont know how this oil will affect the beads in other ways. > Then there is the traditional mustard and also sesame oil, but I still > need to know if these oils will be able to disinfect the beads > adequately from within from any fungus. > > These beads are some very special higher mukhi collector beads, and > PRICELESS to me so I really need to know what is best to do. > > Chandrashekhar Prabhuji, if you are reading this, I hope for your reply! > > ~ Ole > Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Guest guest Report post Posted August 24, 2006 Dear Sir, Many thanks for this input and advice. I have plenty of Gangotri Gangajal right here and went out and bought a bottle of traditional mustard seed oil, so I guess I am ready to proceed... Thanks, ~ Ole sacred-objects, "Pt Siva Prasad Tata" <sptata wrote: > > Dear Mahamuni & Ole, > Re the rudraksha problems – please note the following. > I was fortunate learn a lot about Rudrakshas from the world famous Radraksha > expert and astrologer K.T.Shubhakaran (Author of Nakshatra based > predictions, Mystical formulae, Rudraksha the Bead Divine, Sri Rudram > Decoded). I followed his advise and to this date in nearly 8 years never had > any preserving/fungal problems. Do as follows: > As soon as you get Rudrakshas wash them in Gangajal. It's a super purifier. > If you don't have Gangajal, boil water, take the vessel off the stove and > dip the Rudrakshas in it for about 15 minits. > Never apply any soap or detergent. > Let them dry fully. > After they are dry apply Mustard oil generously. If necessary soak in > mustard oil. Of the commonly available oils it's the best. Of course if you > can get – and afford – Sandalwood oil, nothing like it. Avoid coconut oil > and ghee which solidify in cold conditions. > Apply a coat of oil once in every 3-4 months. > Om Namo Bhagavate Rudraya > > > > On 8/24/06, Simone shombaz wrote: > > > > Hi Alstrup > > > > Mustard seed oil is the best oil among all the oils for treating the > > rudraksha seeds. Since you have collector beads, get the traditional ( with > > the indian brand ) mustard seed oil ( for cooking ) for your beads. Mustard > > by itself has very good energy clearing properties, very very good for > > protection of rudraksha seeds then olive oil. Mustard oil is much ticker > > and heavier then most oil. > > > > Sandalwood oil is just for the sake of good smell. Properties wise - in > > my opinion just good for the smell - and expensive too - ( the real ones ) > > > > If you really want to clear the fungus ... boil the seeds in water for a 2 > > - 3 minutes and quickly wash in cold water. let it dry and then put the > > oil. > > > > i have tried all this - in case you are wondering - for my own beads ..... > > > > bye the way -- wouldnt the priest know that wrapping the beads in leaves > > will cause fungus !!! > > > > simone > > > > > > > > > > *alstrup alstrup* wrote: > > > > > > Pranams > > > > I really need some qualified input on how I treat my collector size > > beads which arrived from India from puja ceremony, where some had some > > suffered surface attack of white fungus attack, (they had been packed in > > sealed plastic after puja wrapped with bilva leaves so the moisture had > > caused some fungal growth) I immediately soaked and cleaned beads with > > natural brown soap water and fresh toothbrush and flushed with clean > > water and let the beads dry thoroughly. They show no exterior sign of > > damage. > > > > However, I am worried if I just apply sandalwood oil on surface, that > > some fungus spores could have survived inside the beads, and if I dont > > soak beads in oil, the fungus could perhaps start growing slowly inside > > the beads and destroy them from within until I found out and it was then > > too late. > > > > I wonder if pure sandalwood oil has strong antifungal properties useful > > for this purpose? I would need to obtain at least 200ml. > > > > I do have neem oil, which has STRONG antifungal properties, but > > Chandrashekharji advised against it, and I also have some concerns, > > because of the strong smell and characteristics of this oil. Also > > because I dont know how this oil will affect the beads in other ways. > > Then there is the traditional mustard and also sesame oil, but I still > > need to know if these oils will be able to disinfect the beads > > adequately from within from any fungus. > > > > These beads are some very special higher mukhi collector beads, and > > PRICELESS to me so I really need to know what is best to do. > > > > Chandrashekhar Prabhuji, if you are reading this, I hope for your reply! > > > > ~ Ole > > > > sacred-objects <sacred-objects%40>, > > "alstrup" alstrup@ wrote: > > > > > > > > > Dear Chandrashekharji, > > > > > > Unfortunately I dont have enough pure Sandalwood oil here right now to > > > soak all my new beads after the soap/brush/ water cleaning. Will it > > > suffice to oil the beads on the surface? What is the advantage of > > > soaking, that the oil penetrates deep into the bead? If so, for how > > long > > > should the beads be soaked for best effect? I do have the sesame oil, > > > but I am worried that the beads will assimilate the sesame smell and I > > > want to avoid that. What do you think? > > > > > > Input from others with practical experience of this is highly welcome! > > > > > > Thanks, > > > > > > Ole > > > > > > > > > sacred-objects <sacred-objects%40>, > > chandrashekhar phadke > > > chphadke@ wrote: > > > > > > > > Dear Ole, > > > > > > > > Thank you very much for your mail. I am of the opinion that the > > Sandle > > > Wood oil may be better than that of the Sesame oil due to its strong > > > fragnance to protect beads mainly from insects attack. Shelf life of > > > Sandle Oil is more than that of Sesame/Mustard/Oilive Oil. Rudraksha > > are > > > likely to absorb more quantity of Sandle Wood oil due to its woody > > > nature. The best way is to soak rudraksha with any oil having > > > antimicrobial and insecticidal properties overnight and after drying > > > thoroughly to apply sandle wood oil externally being expensive. > > > > > > > > Sesame Oil has similar chemical properties to that of Olive Oil > > > (Unsaponifable properties). Mustard Oil, Seasame Oil and Coconut Oil > > are > > > known to have antimicrobial properties. Coconut Oil has more shelf > > life > > > than that of sesame or mustard oil. However, I do not have any idea > > > about the comparative data of Mustard and Sesame Oil. > > > > > > > > The insect attack on beads is more serious than fungi. In tropical > > > climate like India, tiny beetles is the major problem for Rudraksha. > > > These beetles can easily drill holes in hard rudraksha stone (fruit) > > > damaging the bead. The best way to avoid these beetles is to keep > > > rudraksha mala in airy place. In temperate country like yours, beetles > > > may not be the problem, however, tiny mites may spoil the bead. Mites > > > carry fungus spores with them. Of course, mites are not that serious > > > than beetles as far as rudraksha are concerned. > > > > > > > > In temperate countries, there is no strong Sunlight. In such cases, > > > one can store Rudraksha beads with 'Silica Gel' bags to absorb > > moisture > > > from microclimate of the beads. > > > > > > > > Thanking you and with best wishes, > > > > > > > > Chandrashekhar Phadke > > > > > > > > alstrup alstrup@ wrote: > > > > > > > > Dear Chandrashekharji, > > > > > > > > Thank you for the info, it is always nice to get your educated views > > > in > > > > these matters. Do you consider Mustard oil to be better for beads > > than > > > > Sesame oil? Should the Sesame oil be cured first, as is recommended > > > when > > > > it is prepared as ayurvedic massage oil? (This to give it higher > > > > absorption rate) What is your insights about > > antimicrobial/antifungal > > > > properties of pure Sandalwood oil compared to other oils? > > > > > > > > As it so happens, I just received some fresh beads back from puja in > > > > India, some of them had developed some fresh external white fungus, > > > > because they had been wrapped in moist bilva leaves and inside a > > > sealed > > > > plastic bag. I imediately soaked/cleaned beads with pure soapy water > > > and > > > > toothbrush and soaked/flushed with clean water, also shaking the > > beads > > > > to get as much water out from inside beads. They are now clean. Then > > > > they have dried in air for some days with a towel underneath. Now I > > > need > > > > to soak them in oil. I have organic sesame oil, but only enough pure > > > > sandal wood for external coating. Should I soak overnight in sesame > > > oil > > > > first, then sun-dry and then apply sandalwood oil? How long should > > > beads > > > > dry in sun? What if there is no useful sunlight? > > > > > > > > Thanking you as always for your insights in these matters, > > > > > > > > ~ Ole > > > > --- In sacred-objects<sacred-objects%40>, > > chandrashekhar phadke > > > > chphadke@ wrote: > > > > > > > > > > Dear Ole, > > > > > > > > > > Neem oil, though has antimicrobial properties, is thick and has > > very > > > > strong smell. The disadvantage of using thick oil is that it gets > > > > polymerised in few days making its consistency like a thick paste > > and > > > > therefore is not suitable for Rudraksha. > > > > > > > > > > Oil is mainly used to protect beads from microbial infection and > > to > > > > give lustre to beads. Other than Mustard Oil, 'Til Oil (Sesame Oil)' > > > is > > > > the best preservative for rudraksha beads. It has antifungal > > > properties. > > > > 'Til Oil' is also considered as auspicious. 'Til Oil' lamp is > > believed > > > > to emit positive energy. In Maharashtra State of India, it is a > > usual > > > > practice to lit 'Til Oil' lamp near the Puja altar. > > > > > > > > > > With best wishes, > > > > > > > > > > Chandrashekhar Phadke > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > alstrup alstrup@ wrote: > > > > > > > > > > Dear Alok Ji, > > > > > > > > > > Thanks for your input. Neem oil was previously discussed here, I > > > > raised > > > > > the point that pure coldpressed neem oil, which contains the > > > > beneficial > > > > > antimicrobial compunds, also has a very strong smell, so I am not > > > sure > > > > > this will be preferable, as the beads will get acquire the same > > > strong > > > > > smell. But I have no actual experience. > > > > > > > > > > As for the traditional use of mustard seed oil, is there a > > specific > > > > > preference; from yellow or dark seeds, or does it matter? Does the > > > oil > > > > > need to cured first; heated up to 100 degress celcius and the > > cooled > > > > > down? > > > > > > > > > > What is the "phoolkumari" oil made of? > > > > > > > > > > Thanks, > > > > > > > > > > ~Ole > > > > > > > > > > --- In sacred-objects<sacred-objects%40>, > > "a_jagawat" a_jagawat@ > > > > > wrote: > > > > > > > > > > > > Dear Sir, > > > > > > > > > > > > Mustard oil protects the bead from harmful effects of > > degradation > > > > > > and it definitley preserves the bead. You can also use Neem oil > > > for > > > > > > the same. One of the bigger Rudraksha seller i know, uses some > > > > > > " Phoolkumari" oil for the same. Most of them use Mustard oil > > > > > > usually and keep them soaked in oil. > > > > > > > > > > > > Regards, > > > > > > > > > > > > Alok > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In sacred-objects<sacred-objects%40>, > > "alstrup" alstrup@ wrote: > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Is it necessary to soak beads and for what reasons? > > > > > > > > > > > > > > I am not sure that olive oil is good for beads, as it was not > > in > > > > > > use in > > > > > > > India, we dont know if it could reduce the longevity of the > > wood > > > > > > of the > > > > > > > beads over many years? There could be a good reason why > > mustard > > > > > > oil is > > > > > > > traditionally used, according to ayurveda, it is a drying oil, > > > > > > perhaps > > > > > > > the fatty acid composition of mustard oil has a preservation > > > > > > effect. > > > > > > > There should definitely be done some research on this topic. > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Ole > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In sacred-objects<sacred-objects%40>, > > "Mahamuni Das" > > > <mahamuni@> > > > > > > > wrote: > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Any will do. I normally use olive oil. Traditionally mustard > > > oil > > > > > > is > > > > > > > used, but I don't particularly like the smell. When just doing > > a > > > > > > quick > > > > > > > fix for a bead or mala, I use Sandlewood Oil, which is > > > definitely > > > > > > my > > > > > > > favorite to use, but is quite costly. When I do a good 1-2 day > > > > > > soak, I > > > > > > > use Olive and then follow with a light Sandlewood for scent. > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Surya > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > - > > > > > > > > alphanov2@ > > > > > > > > To: sacred-objects<sacred-objects%40> > > > > > > > > Wednesday, August 16, 2006 6:43 AM > > > > > > > > Re: Re: Rudraksha bead quality > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > What are the best oils for soaking a rudraksha bead? > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Here's a new way to find what you're looking for - Answers > > > > > Send FREE SMS to your friend's mobile from Messenger > > Version > > > 8. > > > > Get it NOW > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Here's a new way to find what you're looking for - Answers > > > > Send FREE SMS to your friend's mobile from Messenger Version > > 8. > > > Get it NOW > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > ------------------------------ > > Get your own web address for just $1.99/1st yr. We'll help. Small > > Business<http://us.rd./evt=41244/*http://smallbusiness..co\ m/>. > > > > > > > > > > > > -- > With best wishes > Pandit S.P.Tata > H-5/3, 3rd Floor > Malviya Nagar > New Delhi - 110017 > Phone: 91-11-26680664 (Exclusive for incoming), 91-11-26673281, Mobile: > 9911119235. > Email to: sptata > Website: www.astrojyoti.com > You can contact me online 10 Am to 8 Pm IST with: > Messengers - the user ID is s_p_tata. > MSN Messenger - the user ID is s_p_tata > Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Guest guest Report post Posted August 24, 2006 I mm not claiming that olive oil is harmful to beads, but we dont know yet if using this european oil regularly for beads will in some way negatively affect the physical longevity over many years. I guess the traditional use of mustard seed oil has to be considered in that light. Mustard seed oil is a more drying oil than olive oil. I think this subject is fascinating and would hope that someone would do some studies on this. I wonder if there are any recommendations found in the Rudraksha scriptures. sacred-objects, "Mahamuni Das" <mahamuni wrote: > > In any case, I am sure olive oil is good for the bead, not bad. You don't live in India, so coconut oil is not an option for you. > > Surya > > - > alstrup > sacred-objects > Thursday, August 24, 2006 9:59 AM > Re: Rudraksha oil treatment ! > > > > Coconut oil is always liquid in India, as the indian room temp is a bit higher, didnt you know? > > I know about the leaf extract from health food supplements, most of the action is sad to be from oleuropein, but there is a cocktail of 95 dfferent chemicals in the leaf, so could be a synergistc effect. Extra virgin olive oil is said to have 10 times higher amount of oleuropin than virgin oil, but I am looking for the ratios right now. > > ~ Ole > > > sacred-objects, "Mahamuni Das" mahamuni@ wrote: > > > > But coconut oil becomes solid readily at room temp. Why use it? How can you soak it in this? It becomes like butter. > > > > Olive or Sesame sounds like a better bet. > > > > Did anyone know that the Olive leaf has anti microbial properties. Anti fungal, anti viral and anti bacterial. I am sure this does not apply to the fruit in the same way, but possibly some like characteristics are there as well, though in much reduced quantity. > > > > Jai Maa! > > > > Surya > > - > > chandrashekhar phadke > > sacred-objects > > Thursday, August 24, 2006 3:01 AM > > Re: Rudraksha oil treatment ! > > > > > > > > Dear Ole, > > > > Thank you very much for your mail. I would suggest you to use any oil for soaking purpose. As mentioned in my ealier posting few days back, you can use coconut oil which is easily available and has antimicrobial properties. Antimicrobial properties of 'Coconut Oil' and 'Sesame Oil' are well known and well studied. After soaking beads and making them thoroughly dry, you can use Sandle Wood Oil externally. I follow the same procedure to protect my precious Rudraksha beads though 'Sandle Wood Oil' is easily available here in India. > > > > If you are worried about fugal spores present inside the bead, I would suggest you the following procedure. > > > > Soak your beads in plain water without any detergent. Do not dry them immediately. Allow the fungus spores to germinate. It takes one or two days. Most of the fungal spores are resistant to any fungicidal agents, however, germinating fugal spores are not resistant to fungicides. You can use 0.5 to 1% 'Benomyl' as fungicidal agent. If Benomyl is not available, you can use any broad spectrum fungicide to treat your beads to kill germinating fungal spores. After the treatment of fungicide, thoroughly dry your beads using tissue paper. Oil them with Coconut or Olive Oil. Remove extra oil with tissue. Apply Sandle Wood Oil externally. Always store your beads in airy place. Preferable, wear these beads regularly. Regular wearing will keep insects away. > > > > Thanking you and with best wishes, > > > > Chandrashekhar Phadke > > > > > > > > alstrup alstrup@ wrote: > > > > Pranams > > > > I really need some qualified input on how I treat my collector size > > beads which arrived from India from puja ceremony, where some had some > > suffered surface attack of white fungus attack, (they had been packed in > > sealed plastic after puja wrapped with bilva leaves so the moisture had > > caused some fungal growth) I immediately soaked and cleaned beads with > > natural brown soap water and fresh toothbrush and flushed with clean > > water and let the beads dry thoroughly. They show no exterior sign of > > damage. > > > > However, I am worried if I just apply sandalwood oil on surface, that > > some fungus spores could have survived inside the beads, and if I dont > > soak beads in oil, the fungus could perhaps start growing slowly inside > > the beads and destroy them from within until I found out and it was then > > too late. > > > > I wonder if pure sandalwood oil has strong antifungal properties useful > > for this purpose? I would need to obtain at least 200ml. > > > > I do have neem oil, which has STRONG antifungal properties, but > > Chandrashekharji advised against it, and I also have some concerns, > > because of the strong smell and characteristics of this oil. Also > > because I dont know how this oil will affect the beads in other ways. > > Then there is the traditional mustard and also sesame oil, but I still > > need to know if these oils will be able to disinfect the beads > > adequately from within from any fungus. > > > > These beads are some very special higher mukhi collector beads, and > > PRICELESS to me so I really need to know what is best to do. > > > > Chandrashekhar Prabhuji, if you are reading this, I hope for your reply! > > > > ~ Ole > Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Guest guest Report post Posted August 25, 2006 Hi Ole No offence here, they still work after they go through the heat treament. Sorry to say I use the rudrakshas for the benefits they give and not for dieties that they are attached to. I do respect the dieties but where treatment is required, like any doctor you treat the problem and not get so emotional about it. Simone alstrup <alstrup > wrote: Hi Simone I guess there must be a good reason why mustard seed oil is traditionally chosen for treating Rudraksha beads instead of Sesame oil... I dont think I would EVER boil the HOLY LIVING Rudrakshas, to me they are selfmanfested deities of the Gods! The boling would not kill the fungus spores either...better to apply/soak in a potent fungicide, maybe even a natural one like colloidal silver or GSE solution... You know, I dont think the priest in the temple would know that the beads with the bilva leaves would be sealed inside a plastic bag and sent to a foreign country, I guess this was what caused it, because moisture could not evaporate. I had my beads offered loose and Rudra Centre sent the beads inside the leaves, which was a nice gesture in itself, I guess to show how the beads were offered. ~ Ole sacred-objects, Simone <shombaz wrote: > > Hi Alstrup > > Mustard seed oil is the best oil among all the oils for treating the rudraksha seeds. Since you have collector beads, get the traditional ( with the indian brand ) mustard seed oil ( for cooking ) for your beads. Mustard by itself has very good energy clearing properties, very very good for protection of rudraksha seeds then olive oil. Mustard oil is much ticker and heavier then most oil. > > Sandalwood oil is just for the sake of good smell. Properties wise - in my opinion just good for the smell - and expensive too - ( the real ones ) > > If you really want to clear the fungus ... boil the seeds in water for a 2 - 3 minutes and quickly wash in cold water. let it dry and then put the oil. > > i have tried all this - in case you are wondering - for my own beads .... > > bye the way -- wouldnt the priest know that wrapping the beads in leaves will cause fungus !!! > > simone > > > > > alstrup alstrup wrote: > > Pranams > > I really need some qualified input on how I treat my collector size > beads which arrived from India from puja ceremony, where some had some > suffered surface attack of white fungus attack, (they had been packed in > sealed plastic after puja wrapped with bilva leaves so the moisture had > caused some fungal growth) I immediately soaked and cleaned beads with > natural brown soap water and fresh toothbrush and flushed with clean > water and let the beads dry thoroughly. They show no exterior sign of > damage. > > However, I am worried if I just apply sandalwood oil on surface, that > some fungus spores could have survived inside the beads, and if I dont > soak beads in oil, the fungus could perhaps start growing slowly inside > the beads and destroy them from within until I found out and it was then > too late. > > I wonder if pure sandalwood oil has strong antifungal properties useful > for this purpose? I would need to obtain at least 200ml. > > I do have neem oil, which has STRONG antifungal properties, but > Chandrashekharji advised against it, and I also have some concerns, > because of the strong smell and characteristics of this oil. Also > because I dont know how this oil will affect the beads in other ways. > Then there is the traditional mustard and also sesame oil, but I still > need to know if these oils will be able to disinfect the beads > adequately from within from any fungus. > > These beads are some very special higher mukhi collector beads, and > PRICELESS to me so I really need to know what is best to do. > > Chandrashekhar Prabhuji, if you are reading this, I hope for your reply! > > ~ Ole > All-new Mail - Fire up a more powerful email and get things done faster. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Guest guest Report post Posted August 25, 2006 Dear Ole, Thank you very much for your mail. You have noticed the whtie fungus mycelium on your beads. There are large no. of moniliceous hyphomycetes growing saprophytically on organic matter under favourable conditions of moisture and temperature. Most of the forms produces fungal spores or conidia to spread fungus. However, few of the forms do not produce spores or conidia easily. Fungus spores can remain alive for many years and start growing under favourable conditions as mentioned before. As per my observations on rudraksha beads, generally, locules of rudraksha beads are tightly closed from all the sides. However, there are chances that few of the locules may show minor slits inside which are enough for fungal spores to rest there. It is difficult to remove mycelium and spores from the crevices of any material. In such cases, while washing, vaccum pumps are used to remove such spores and mycelial cells. However, vaccum pump may damage or break the locules. One should apply very low vaccum in such cases. Allowing fungal spores to germinate takes 24 to 48 hours under favourable conditions of moisture and temperature. Do not submerge your beads in water for 24 to 48 hours. Just dip them for one or two hours and then wrap them in a plastic bags to get necessary temp. and to retain the moisture allowing fungus spores to germinate. By this method, approx. 95% fungus spores will germinate easily and then can be killed by the treatment of broad spectrum fungicide. Antifungal antibiotics like Nystatin, Aureofungin and many others can also be used. It is better to use antifungal antibiotics at the concentration of 500 ppm ( i.e. 500 mg/ litre) for few hours. Rudraksha beads are required to be kept submerged in anitibiotic or fungicidal solution for few hours. After claning properly, the best way to protect beads is to treat them regularly with Coconut or Til oil. If you take internet search you will get many references mentioning antimicrobial properties of Coconut and Til oil. However, not much work has been done on Sandal Wood Oil on this aspect. Thanking you and with best wishes, Chandrashekhar Phadke alstrup <alstrup > wrote: Dear Chandrashekharji Thank you SO much for this detailed and informative reply! What do you think are the chances that there are fungal spores inside a bead, if it was already attacked once on the surface? (The fungus was mostly white) Do you think it is possible for fungal spores to slowly germinate inside a bead - without showing any exterior signs - and thereby slowly destroy the beads from inside out? I am here referring to beads otherwise stored/worn under the right conditions. About the disinfection/germination procedure; will this bring all the remaining spores to germinate? How should the fungicidal agent be applied to the beads? Does coconut oil, sesame oil, olive oil, mustard seed oil have any antifungal properties? Thanks for any further insights! Gratefully, Ole sacred-objects, chandrashekhar phadke <chphadke wrote: > > Dear Ole, > > Thank you very much for your mail. I would suggest you to use any oil for soaking purpose. As mentioned in my ealier posting few days back, you can use coconut oil which is easily available and has antimicrobial properties. Antimicrobial properties of 'Coconut Oil' and 'Sesame Oil' are well known and well studied. After soaking beads and making them thoroughly dry, you can use Sandle Wood Oil externally. I follow the same procedure to protect my precious Rudraksha beads though 'Sandle Wood Oil' is easily available here in India. > > If you are worried about fugal spores present inside the bead, I would suggest you the following procedure. > > Soak your beads in plain water without any detergent. Do not dry them immediately. Allow the fungus spores to germinate. It takes one or two days. Most of the fungal spores are resistant to any fungicidal agents, however, germinating fugal spores are not resistant to fungicides. You can use 0.5 to 1% 'Benomyl' as fungicidal agent. If Benomyl is not available, you can use any broad spectrum fungicide to treat your beads to kill germinating fungal spores. After the treatment of fungicide, thoroughly dry your beads using tissue paper. Oil them with Coconut or Olive Oil. Remove extra oil with tissue. Apply Sandle Wood Oil externally. Always store your beads in airy place. Preferable, wear these beads regularly. Regular wearing will keep insects away. > > Thanking you and with best wishes, > > Chandrashekhar Phadke > > > > alstrup alstrup wrote: > > Pranams > > I really need some qualified input on how I treat my collector size > beads which arrived from India from puja ceremony, where some had some > suffered surface attack of white fungus attack, (they had been packed in > sealed plastic after puja wrapped with bilva leaves so the moisture had > caused some fungal growth) I immediately soaked and cleaned beads with > natural brown soap water and fresh toothbrush and flushed with clean > water and let the beads dry thoroughly. They show no exterior sign of > damage. > > However, I am worried if I just apply sandalwood oil on surface, that > some fungus spores could have survived inside the beads, and if I dont > soak beads in oil, the fungus could perhaps start growing slowly inside > the beads and destroy them from within until I found out and it was then > too late. > > I wonder if pure sandalwood oil has strong antifungal properties useful > for this purpose? I would need to obtain at least 200ml. > > I do have neem oil, which has STRONG antifungal properties, but > Chandrashekharji advised against it, and I also have some concerns, > because of the strong smell and characteristics of this oil. Also > because I dont know how this oil will affect the beads in other ways. > Then there is the traditional mustard and also sesame oil, but I still > need to know if these oils will be able to disinfect the beads > adequately from within from any fungus. > > These beads are some very special higher mukhi collector beads, and > PRICELESS to me so I really need to know what is best to do. > > Chandrashekhar Prabhuji, if you are reading this, I hope for your reply! > > ~ Ole > > sacred-objects, "alstrup" alstrup@ wrote: > > > > > > Dear Chandrashekharji, > > > > Unfortunately I dont have enough pure Sandalwood oil here right now to > > soak all my new beads after the soap/brush/ water cleaning. Will it > > suffice to oil the beads on the surface? What is the advantage of > > soaking, that the oil penetrates deep into the bead? If so, for how > long > > should the beads be soaked for best effect? I do have the sesame oil, > > but I am worried that the beads will assimilate the sesame smell and I > > want to avoid that. What do you think? > > > > Input from others with practical experience of this is highly welcome! > > > > Thanks, > > > > Ole > > > > > > sacred-objects, chandrashekhar phadke > > chphadke@ wrote: > > > > > > Dear Ole, > > > > > > Thank you very much for your mail. I am of the opinion that the > Sandle > > Wood oil may be better than that of the Sesame oil due to its strong > > fragnance to protect beads mainly from insects attack. Shelf life of > > Sandle Oil is more than that of Sesame/Mustard/Oilive Oil. Rudraksha > are > > likely to absorb more quantity of Sandle Wood oil due to its woody > > nature. The best way is to soak rudraksha with any oil having > > antimicrobial and insecticidal properties overnight and after drying > > thoroughly to apply sandle wood oil externally being expensive. > > > > > > Sesame Oil has similar chemical properties to that of Olive Oil > > (Unsaponifable properties). Mustard Oil, Seasame Oil and Coconut Oil > are > > known to have antimicrobial properties. Coconut Oil has more shelf > life > > than that of sesame or mustard oil. However, I do not have any idea > > about the comparative data of Mustard and Sesame Oil. > > > > > > The insect attack on beads is more serious than fungi. In tropical > > climate like India, tiny beetles is the major problem for Rudraksha. > > These beetles can easily drill holes in hard rudraksha stone (fruit) > > damaging the bead. The best way to avoid these beetles is to keep > > rudraksha mala in airy place. In temperate country like yours, beetles > > may not be the problem, however, tiny mites may spoil the bead. Mites > > carry fungus spores with them. Of course, mites are not that serious > > than beetles as far as rudraksha are concerned. > > > > > > In temperate countries, there is no strong Sunlight. In such cases, > > one can store Rudraksha beads with 'Silica Gel' bags to absorb > moisture > > from microclimate of the beads. > > > > > > Thanking you and with best wishes, > > > > > > Chandrashekhar Phadke > > > > > > alstrup alstrup@ wrote: > > > > > > Dear Chandrashekharji, > > > > > > Thank you for the info, it is always nice to get your educated views > > in > > > these matters. Do you consider Mustard oil to be better for beads > than > > > Sesame oil? Should the Sesame oil be cured first, as is recommended > > when > > > it is prepared as ayurvedic massage oil? (This to give it higher > > > absorption rate) What is your insights about > antimicrobial/antifungal > > > properties of pure Sandalwood oil compared to other oils? > > > > > > As it so happens, I just received some fresh beads back from puja in > > > India, some of them had developed some fresh external white fungus, > > > because they had been wrapped in moist bilva leaves and inside a > > sealed > > > plastic bag. I imediately soaked/cleaned beads with pure soapy water > > and > > > toothbrush and soaked/flushed with clean water, also shaking the > beads > > > to get as much water out from inside beads. They are now clean. Then > > > they have dried in air for some days with a towel underneath. Now I > > need > > > to soak them in oil. I have organic sesame oil, but only enough pure > > > sandal wood for external coating. Should I soak overnight in sesame > > oil > > > first, then sun-dry and then apply sandalwood oil? How long should > > beads > > > dry in sun? What if there is no useful sunlight? > > > > > > Thanking you as always for your insights in these matters, > > > > > > ~ Ole > > > sacred-objects, chandrashekhar phadke > > > chphadke@ wrote: > > > > > > > > Dear Ole, > > > > > > > > Neem oil, though has antimicrobial properties, is thick and has > very > > > strong smell. The disadvantage of using thick oil is that it gets > > > polymerised in few days making its consistency like a thick paste > and > > > therefore is not suitable for Rudraksha. > > > > > > > > Oil is mainly used to protect beads from microbial infection and > to > > > give lustre to beads. Other than Mustard Oil, 'Til Oil (Sesame Oil)' > > is > > > the best preservative for rudraksha beads. It has antifungal > > properties. > > > 'Til Oil' is also considered as auspicious. 'Til Oil' lamp is > believed > > > to emit positive energy. In Maharashtra State of India, it is a > usual > > > practice to lit 'Til Oil' lamp near the Puja altar. > > > > > > > > With best wishes, > > > > > > > > Chandrashekhar Phadke > > > > > > > > > > > > alstrup alstrup@ wrote: > > > > > > > > Dear Alok Ji, > > > > > > > > Thanks for your input. Neem oil was previously discussed here, I > > > raised > > > > the point that pure coldpressed neem oil, which contains the > > > beneficial > > > > antimicrobial compunds, also has a very strong smell, so I am not > > sure > > > > this will be preferable, as the beads will get acquire the same > > strong > > > > smell. But I have no actual experience. > > > > > > > > As for the traditional use of mustard seed oil, is there a > specific > > > > preference; from yellow or dark seeds, or does it matter? Does the > > oil > > > > need to cured first; heated up to 100 degress celcius and the > cooled > > > > down? > > > > > > > > What is the "phoolkumari" oil made of? > > > > > > > > Thanks, > > > > > > > > ~Ole > > > > > > > > sacred-objects, "a_jagawat" a_jagawat@ > > > > wrote: > > > > > > > > > > Dear Sir, > > > > > > > > > > Mustard oil protects the bead from harmful effects of > degradation > > > > > and it definitley preserves the bead. You can also use Neem oil > > for > > > > > the same. One of the bigger Rudraksha seller i know, uses some > > > > > " Phoolkumari" oil for the same. Most of them use Mustard oil > > > > > usually and keep them soaked in oil. > > > > > > > > > > Regards, > > > > > > > > > > Alok > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > sacred-objects, "alstrup" alstrup@ wrote: > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Is it necessary to soak beads and for what reasons? > > > > > > > > > > > > I am not sure that olive oil is good for beads, as it was not > in > > > > > use in > > > > > > India, we dont know if it could reduce the longevity of the > wood > > > > > of the > > > > > > beads over many years? There could be a good reason why > mustard > > > > > oil is > > > > > > traditionally used, according to ayurveda, it is a drying oil, > > > > > perhaps > > > > > > the fatty acid composition of mustard oil has a preservation > > > > > effect. > > > > > > There should definitely be done some research on this topic. > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Ole > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > sacred-objects, "Mahamuni Das" > > <mahamuni@> > > > > > > wrote: > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Any will do. I normally use olive oil. Traditionally mustard > > oil > > > > > is > > > > > > used, but I don't particularly like the smell. When just doing > a > > > > > quick > > > > > > fix for a bead or mala, I use Sandlewood Oil, which is > > definitely > > > > > my > > > > > > favorite to use, but is quite costly. When I do a good 1-2 day > > > > > soak, I > > > > > > use Olive and then follow with a light Sandlewood for scent. > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Surya > > > > > > > > > > > > > > - > > > > > > > alphanov2@ > > > > > > > sacred-objects > > > > > > > Wednesday, August 16, 2006 6:43 AM > > > > > > > Re: Re: Rudraksha bead quality > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > What are the best oils for soaking a rudraksha bead? > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Here's a new way to find what you're looking for - Answers > > > > Send FREE SMS to your friend's mobile from Messenger > Version > > 8. > > > Get it NOW > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Here's a new way to find what you're looking for - Answers > > > Send FREE SMS to your friend's mobile from Messenger Version > 8. > > Get it NOW > > > > > > > > > > > > > Here's a new way to find what you're looking for - Answers > Send FREE SMS to your friend's mobile from Messenger Version 8. Get it NOW > Here's a new way to find what you're looking for - Answers Send FREE SMS to your friend's mobile from Messenger Version 8. Get it NOW Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Guest guest Report post Posted August 25, 2006 Dear Simone and Ole, Boiling of beads is not a good option. Rudraksha have very minute fissures on its body. If beads are boiled in water, it is likely that such minor fissures get transformed in major cracks spoiling the beads. Boiling also softens the interlammelar layers (or a layer between two cells) cracking the bead. As per the experience, only 4 to 6 mukhi Nepal beads are more resistant for boiling water temperature. Indonesian beads are more compact and sturdy than Nepal and Indian beads. With best wishes, Chandrashekhar Phadke alstrup <alstrup > wrote: Hi Simone I guess there must be a good reason why mustard seed oil is traditionally chosen for treating Rudraksha beads instead of Sesame oil... I dont think I would EVER boil the HOLY LIVING Rudrakshas, to me they are selfmanfested deities of the Gods! The boling would not kill the fungus spores either...better to apply/soak in a potent fungicide, maybe even a natural one like colloidal silver or GSE solution... You know, I dont think the priest in the temple would know that the beads with the bilva leaves would be sealed inside a plastic bag and sent to a foreign country, I guess this was what caused it, because moisture could not evaporate. I had my beads offered loose and Rudra Centre sent the beads inside the leaves, which was a nice gesture in itself, I guess to show how the beads were offered. ~ Ole sacred-objects, Simone <shombaz wrote: > > Hi Alstrup > > Mustard seed oil is the best oil among all the oils for treating the rudraksha seeds. Since you have collector beads, get the traditional ( with the indian brand ) mustard seed oil ( for cooking ) for your beads. Mustard by itself has very good energy clearing properties, very very good for protection of rudraksha seeds then olive oil. Mustard oil is much ticker and heavier then most oil. > > Sandalwood oil is just for the sake of good smell. Properties wise - in my opinion just good for the smell - and expensive too - ( the real ones ) > > If you really want to clear the fungus ... boil the seeds in water for a 2 - 3 minutes and quickly wash in cold water. let it dry and then put the oil. > > i have tried all this - in case you are wondering - for my own beads .... > > bye the way -- wouldnt the priest know that wrapping the beads in leaves will cause fungus !!! > > simone > > > > > alstrup alstrup wrote: > > Pranams > > I really need some qualified input on how I treat my collector size > beads which arrived from India from puja ceremony, where some had some > suffered surface attack of white fungus attack, (they had been packed in > sealed plastic after puja wrapped with bilva leaves so the moisture had > caused some fungal growth) I immediately soaked and cleaned beads with > natural brown soap water and fresh toothbrush and flushed with clean > water and let the beads dry thoroughly. They show no exterior sign of > damage. > > However, I am worried if I just apply sandalwood oil on surface, that > some fungus spores could have survived inside the beads, and if I dont > soak beads in oil, the fungus could perhaps start growing slowly inside > the beads and destroy them from within until I found out and it was then > too late. > > I wonder if pure sandalwood oil has strong antifungal properties useful > for this purpose? I would need to obtain at least 200ml. > > I do have neem oil, which has STRONG antifungal properties, but > Chandrashekharji advised against it, and I also have some concerns, > because of the strong smell and characteristics of this oil. Also > because I dont know how this oil will affect the beads in other ways. > Then there is the traditional mustard and also sesame oil, but I still > need to know if these oils will be able to disinfect the beads > adequately from within from any fungus. > > These beads are some very special higher mukhi collector beads, and > PRICELESS to me so I really need to know what is best to do. > > Chandrashekhar Prabhuji, if you are reading this, I hope for your reply! > > ~ Ole > Here's a new way to find what you're looking for - Answers Send FREE SMS to your friend's mobile from Messenger Version 8. Get it NOW Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Guest guest Report post Posted August 26, 2006 Hi Simone Not so sure about offence in this case. My point is to not boil a living thing, as stated there are other better ways to solve this problem. Who told you that boiling would cure a bead of fungus, that will not kill the spores. ~Ole sacred-objects, Simone <shombaz wrote: > > Hi Ole > > No offence here, they still work after they go through the heat treament. > Sorry to say I use the rudrakshas for the benefits they give and not for dieties that they are attached to. > I do respect the dieties but where treatment is required, like any doctor you treat the problem and not get so emotional about it. > > Simone Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Guest guest Report post Posted August 26, 2006 Dear Chandrashekharji, Thank you so very much for this further information! One final clarification do you regard til/sesame oil as superior to mustard seed oil, and if so, why? Many thanks, Ole sacred-objects, chandrashekhar phadke <chphadke wrote: > > Dear Ole, > > Thank you very much for your mail. You have noticed the whtie fungus mycelium on your beads. There are large no. of moniliceous hyphomycetes growing saprophytically on organic matter under favourable conditions of moisture and temperature. Most of the forms produces fungal spores or conidia to spread fungus. However, few of the forms do not produce spores or conidia easily. Fungus spores can remain alive for many years and start growing under favourable conditions as mentioned before. > > As per my observations on rudraksha beads, generally, locules of rudraksha beads are tightly closed from all the sides. However, there are chances that few of the locules may show minor slits inside which are enough for fungal spores to rest there. It is difficult to remove mycelium and spores from the crevices of any material. In such cases, while washing, vaccum pumps are used to remove such spores and mycelial cells. However, vaccum pump may damage or break the locules. One should apply very low vaccum in such cases. > > Allowing fungal spores to germinate takes 24 to 48 hours under favourable conditions of moisture and temperature. Do not submerge your beads in water for 24 to 48 hours. Just dip them for one or two hours and then wrap them in a plastic bags to get necessary temp. and to retain the moisture allowing fungus spores to germinate. By this method, approx. 95% fungus spores will germinate easily and then can be killed by the treatment of broad spectrum fungicide. Antifungal antibiotics like Nystatin, Aureofungin and many others can also be used. It is better to use antifungal antibiotics at the concentration of 500 ppm ( i.e. 500 mg/ litre) for few hours. > > Rudraksha beads are required to be kept submerged in anitibiotic or fungicidal solution for few hours. After claning properly, the best way to protect beads is to treat them regularly with Coconut or Til oil. If you take internet search you will get many references mentioning antimicrobial properties of Coconut and Til oil. However, not much work has been done on Sandal Wood Oil on this aspect. > > Thanking you and with best wishes, > > Chandrashekhar Phadke > > > alstrup alstrup wrote: > Dear Chandrashekharji > Thank you SO much for this detailed and informative reply! > What do you think are the chances that there are fungal spores inside a bead, if it was already attacked once on the surface? (The fungus was mostly white) Do you think it is possible for fungal spores to slowly germinate inside a bead - without showing any exterior signs - and thereby slowly destroy the beads from inside out? I am here referring to beads otherwise stored/worn under the right conditions. > About the disinfection/germination procedure; will this bring all the remaining spores to germinate? How should the fungicidal agent be applied to the beads? > Does coconut oil, sesame oil, olive oil, mustard seed oil have any antifungal properties? > Thanks for any further insights! > Gratefully, > Ole > > sacred-objects, chandrashekhar phadke chphadke@ wrote: > > > > Dear Ole, > > > > Thank you very much for your mail. I would suggest you to use any oil for soaking purpose. As mentioned in my ealier posting few days back, you can use coconut oil which is easily available and has antimicrobial properties. Antimicrobial properties of 'Coconut Oil' and 'Sesame Oil' are well known and well studied. After soaking beads and making them thoroughly dry, you can use Sandle Wood Oil externally. I follow the same procedure to protect my precious Rudraksha beads though 'Sandle Wood Oil' is easily available here in India. > > > > If you are worried about fugal spores present inside the bead, I would suggest you the following procedure. > > > > Soak your beads in plain water without any detergent. Do not dry them immediately. Allow the fungus spores to germinate. It takes one or two days. Most of the fungal spores are resistant to any fungicidal agents, however, germinating fugal spores are not resistant to fungicides. You can use 0.5 to 1% 'Benomyl' as fungicidal agent. If Benomyl is not available, you can use any broad spectrum fungicide to treat your beads to kill germinating fungal spores. After the treatment of fungicide, thoroughly dry your beads using tissue paper. Oil them with Coconut or Olive Oil. Remove extra oil with tissue. Apply Sandle Wood Oil externally. Always store your beads in airy place. Preferable, wear these beads regularly. Regular wearing will keep insects away. > > > > Thanking you and with best wishes, > > > > Chandrashekhar Phadke > > > > > > > > alstrup alstrup@ wrote: > > > > Pranams > > > > I really need some qualified input on how I treat my collector size > > beads which arrived from India from puja ceremony, where some had some > > suffered surface attack of white fungus attack, (they had been packed in > > sealed plastic after puja wrapped with bilva leaves so the moisture had > > caused some fungal growth) I immediately soaked and cleaned beads with > > natural brown soap water and fresh toothbrush and flushed with clean > > water and let the beads dry thoroughly. They show no exterior sign of > > damage. > > > > However, I am worried if I just apply sandalwood oil on surface, that > > some fungus spores could have survived inside the beads, and if I dont > > soak beads in oil, the fungus could perhaps start growing slowly inside > > the beads and destroy them from within until I found out and it was then > > too late. > > > > I wonder if pure sandalwood oil has strong antifungal properties useful > > for this purpose? I would need to obtain at least 200ml. > > > > I do have neem oil, which has STRONG antifungal properties, but > > Chandrashekharji advised against it, and I also have some concerns, > > because of the strong smell and characteristics of this oil. Also > > because I dont know how this oil will affect the beads in other ways. > > Then there is the traditional mustard and also sesame oil, but I still > > need to know if these oils will be able to disinfect the beads > > adequately from within from any fungus. > > > > These beads are some very special higher mukhi collector beads, and > > PRICELESS to me so I really need to know what is best to do. > > > > Chandrashekhar Prabhuji, if you are reading this, I hope for your reply! > > > > ~ Ole > > > > sacred-objects, "alstrup" alstrup@ wrote: > > > > > > > > > Dear Chandrashekharji, > > > > > > Unfortunately I dont have enough pure Sandalwood oil here right now to > > > soak all my new beads after the soap/brush/ water cleaning. Will it > > > suffice to oil the beads on the surface? What is the advantage of > > > soaking, that the oil penetrates deep into the bead? If so, for how > > long > > > should the beads be soaked for best effect? I do have the sesame oil, > > > but I am worried that the beads will assimilate the sesame smell and I > > > want to avoid that. What do you think? > > > > > > Input from others with practical experience of this is highly welcome! > > > > > > Thanks, > > > > > > Ole > > > > > > > > > sacred-objects, chandrashekhar phadke > > > chphadke@ wrote: > > > > > > > > Dear Ole, > > > > > > > > Thank you very much for your mail. I am of the opinion that the > > Sandle > > > Wood oil may be better than that of the Sesame oil due to its strong > > > fragnance to protect beads mainly from insects attack. Shelf life of > > > Sandle Oil is more than that of Sesame/Mustard/Oilive Oil. Rudraksha > > are > > > likely to absorb more quantity of Sandle Wood oil due to its woody > > > nature. The best way is to soak rudraksha with any oil having > > > antimicrobial and insecticidal properties overnight and after drying > > > thoroughly to apply sandle wood oil externally being expensive. > > > > > > > > Sesame Oil has similar chemical properties to that of Olive Oil > > > (Unsaponifable properties). Mustard Oil, Seasame Oil and Coconut Oil > > are > > > known to have antimicrobial properties. Coconut Oil has more shelf > > life > > > than that of sesame or mustard oil. However, I do not have any idea > > > about the comparative data of Mustard and Sesame Oil. > > > > > > > > The insect attack on beads is more serious than fungi. In tropical > > > climate like India, tiny beetles is the major problem for Rudraksha. > > > These beetles can easily drill holes in hard rudraksha stone (fruit) > > > damaging the bead. The best way to avoid these beetles is to keep > > > rudraksha mala in airy place. In temperate country like yours, beetles > > > may not be the problem, however, tiny mites may spoil the bead. Mites > > > carry fungus spores with them. Of course, mites are not that serious > > > than beetles as far as rudraksha are concerned. > > > > > > > > In temperate countries, there is no strong Sunlight. In such cases, > > > one can store Rudraksha beads with 'Silica Gel' bags to absorb > > moisture > > > from microclimate of the beads. > > > > > > > > Thanking you and with best wishes, > > > > > > > > Chandrashekhar Phadke > > > > > > > > alstrup alstrup@ wrote: > > > > > > > > Dear Chandrashekharji, > > > > > > > > Thank you for the info, it is always nice to get your educated views > > > in > > > > these matters. Do you consider Mustard oil to be better for beads > > than > > > > Sesame oil? Should the Sesame oil be cured first, as is recommended > > > when > > > > it is prepared as ayurvedic massage oil? (This to give it higher > > > > absorption rate) What is your insights about > > antimicrobial/antifungal > > > > properties of pure Sandalwood oil compared to other oils? > > > > > > > > As it so happens, I just received some fresh beads back from puja in > > > > India, some of them had developed some fresh external white fungus, > > > > because they had been wrapped in moist bilva leaves and inside a > > > sealed > > > > plastic bag. I imediately soaked/cleaned beads with pure soapy water > > > and > > > > toothbrush and soaked/flushed with clean water, also shaking the > > beads > > > > to get as much water out from inside beads. They are now clean. Then > > > > they have dried in air for some days with a towel underneath. Now I > > > need > > > > to soak them in oil. I have organic sesame oil, but only enough pure > > > > sandal wood for external coating. Should I soak overnight in sesame > > > oil > > > > first, then sun-dry and then apply sandalwood oil? How long should > > > beads > > > > dry in sun? What if there is no useful sunlight? > > > > > > > > Thanking you as always for your insights in these matters, > > > > > > > > ~ Ole > > > > sacred-objects, chandrashekhar phadke > > > > chphadke@ wrote: > > > > > > > > > > Dear Ole, > > > > > > > > > > Neem oil, though has antimicrobial properties, is thick and has > > very > > > > strong smell. The disadvantage of using thick oil is that it gets > > > > polymerised in few days making its consistency like a thick paste > > and > > > > therefore is not suitable for Rudraksha. > > > > > > > > > > Oil is mainly used to protect beads from microbial infection and > > to > > > > give lustre to beads. Other than Mustard Oil, 'Til Oil (Sesame Oil)' > > > is > > > > the best preservative for rudraksha beads. It has antifungal > > > properties. > > > > 'Til Oil' is also considered as auspicious. 'Til Oil' lamp is > > believed > > > > to emit positive energy. In Maharashtra State of India, it is a > > usual > > > > practice to lit 'Til Oil' lamp near the Puja altar. > > > > > > > > > > With best wishes, > > > > > > > > > > Chandrashekhar Phadke > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > alstrup alstrup@ wrote: > > > > > > > > > > Dear Alok Ji, > > > > > > > > > > Thanks for your input. Neem oil was previously discussed here, I > > > > raised > > > > > the point that pure coldpressed neem oil, which contains the > > > > beneficial > > > > > antimicrobial compunds, also has a very strong smell, so I am not > > > sure > > > > > this will be preferable, as the beads will get acquire the same > > > strong > > > > > smell. But I have no actual experience. > > > > > > > > > > As for the traditional use of mustard seed oil, is there a > > specific > > > > > preference; from yellow or dark seeds, or does it matter? Does the > > > oil > > > > > need to cured first; heated up to 100 degress celcius and the > > cooled > > > > > down? > > > > > > > > > > What is the "phoolkumari" oil made of? > > > > > > > > > > Thanks, > > > > > > > > > > ~Ole > > > > > > > > > > sacred-objects, "a_jagawat" a_jagawat@ > > > > > wrote: > > > > > > > > > > > > Dear Sir, > > > > > > > > > > > > Mustard oil protects the bead from harmful effects of > > degradation > > > > > > and it definitley preserves the bead. You can also use Neem oil > > > for > > > > > > the same. One of the bigger Rudraksha seller i know, uses some > > > > > > " Phoolkumari" oil for the same. Most of them use Mustard oil > > > > > > usually and keep them soaked in oil. > > > > > > > > > > > > Regards, > > > > > > > > > > > > Alok > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > sacred-objects, "alstrup" alstrup@ wrote: > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Is it necessary to soak beads and for what reasons? > > > > > > > > > > > > > > I am not sure that olive oil is good for beads, as it was not > > in > > > > > > use in > > > > > > > India, we dont know if it could reduce the longevity of the > > wood > > > > > > of the > > > > > > > beads over many years? There could be a good reason why > > mustard > > > > > > oil is > > > > > > > traditionally used, according to ayurveda, it is a drying oil, > > > > > > perhaps > > > > > > > the fatty acid composition of mustard oil has a preservation > > > > > > effect. > > > > > > > There should definitely be done some research on this topic. > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Ole > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > sacred-objects, "Mahamuni Das" > > > <mahamuni@> > > > > > > > wrote: > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Any will do. I normally use olive oil. Traditionally mustard > > > oil > > > > > > is > > > > > > > used, but I don't particularly like the smell. When just doing > > a > > > > > > quick > > > > > > > fix for a bead or mala, I use Sandlewood Oil, which is > > > definitely > > > > > > my > > > > > > > favorite to use, but is quite costly. When I do a good 1-2 day > > > > > > soak, I > > > > > > > use Olive and then follow with a light Sandlewood for scent. > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Surya > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > - > > > > > > > > alphanov2@ > > > > > > > > sacred-objects > > > > > > > > Wednesday, August 16, 2006 6:43 AM > > > > > > > > Re: Re: Rudraksha bead quality > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > What are the best oils for soaking a rudraksha bead? > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Here's a new way to find what you're looking for - Answers > > > > > Send FREE SMS to your friend's mobile from Messenger > > Version > > > 8. > > > > Get it NOW > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Here's a new way to find what you're looking for - Answers > > > > Send FREE SMS to your friend's mobile from Messenger Version > > 8. > > > Get it NOW > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Here's a new way to find what you're looking for - Answers > > Send FREE SMS to your friend's mobile from Messenger Version 8. Get it NOW > > > Here's a new way to find what you're looking for - Answers > Send FREE SMS to your friend's mobile from Messenger Version 8. Get it NOW > Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Guest guest Report post Posted August 27, 2006 Hi amit, What is that Rudraksha oil you refer to? Please give more info. Thanks, Ole sacred-objects, "amit uniyal" <devshoppe wrote: > > hi all! > I think even Rudraksha oil ( base mustard oil ) is very good thing for > beads.But it takes around 60-90 days to make rudraksha oil.Once made > it can be used for months and it brings glow and health to rudrakshas. > Second choice is mustard oil. > thanks > amit uniyal > www.devshoppe.com > > > > > sacred-objects, "Pt Siva Prasad Tata" > <sptata@> wrote: > > > > Dear Mahamuni & Ole, > > Re the rudraksha problems � please note the following. > > I was fortunate learn a lot about Rudrakshas from the world famous > Radraksha > > expert and astrologer K.T.Shubhakaran (Author of Nakshatra based > > predictions, Mystical formulae, Rudraksha the Bead Divine, Sri Rudram > > Decoded). I followed his advise and to this date in nearly 8 years > never had > > any preserving/fungal problems. Do as follows: > > As soon as you get Rudrakshas wash them in Gangajal. It's a super > purifier. > > If you don't have Gangajal, boil water, take the vessel off the > stove and > > dip the Rudrakshas in it for about 15 minits. > > Never apply any soap or detergent. > > Let them dry fully. > > After they are dry apply Mustard oil generously. If necessary soak in > > mustard oil. Of the commonly available oils it's the best. Of course > if you > > can get � and afford � Sandalwood oil, nothing like it. Avoid > coconut oil > > and ghee which solidify in cold conditions. > > Apply a coat of oil once in every 3-4 months. > > Om Namo Bhagavate Rudraya > > > > > > > > On 8/24/06, Simone <shombaz@> wrote: > > > > > > Hi Alstrup > > > > > > Mustard seed oil is the best oil among all the oils for treating the > > > rudraksha seeds. Since you have collector beads, get the > traditional ( with > > > the indian brand ) mustard seed oil ( for cooking ) for your > beads. Mustard > > > by itself has very good energy clearing properties, very very good for > > > protection of rudraksha seeds then olive oil. Mustard oil is much > ticker > > > and heavier then most oil. > > > > > > Sandalwood oil is just for the sake of good smell. Properties > wise - in > > > my opinion just good for the smell - and expensive too - ( the > real ones ) > > > > > > If you really want to clear the fungus ... boil the seeds in water > for a 2 > > > - 3 minutes and quickly wash in cold water. let it dry and then > put the > > > oil. > > > > > > i have tried all this - in case you are wondering - for my own > beads .... > > > > > > bye the way -- wouldnt the priest know that wrapping the beads in > leaves > > > will cause fungus !!! > > > > > > simone > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > *alstrup <alstrup@>* wrote: > > > > > > > > > Pranams > > > > > > I really need some qualified input on how I treat my collector size > > > beads which arrived from India from puja ceremony, where some had some > > > suffered surface attack of white fungus attack, (they had been > packed in > > > sealed plastic after puja wrapped with bilva leaves so the > moisture had > > > caused some fungal growth) I immediately soaked and cleaned beads with > > > natural brown soap water and fresh toothbrush and flushed with clean > > > water and let the beads dry thoroughly. They show no exterior sign of > > > damage. > > > > > > However, I am worried if I just apply sandalwood oil on surface, that > > > some fungus spores could have survived inside the beads, and if I dont > > > soak beads in oil, the fungus could perhaps start growing slowly > inside > > > the beads and destroy them from within until I found out and it > was then > > > too late. > > > > > > I wonder if pure sandalwood oil has strong antifungal properties > useful > > > for this purpose? I would need to obtain at least 200ml. > > > > > > I do have neem oil, which has STRONG antifungal properties, but > > > Chandrashekharji advised against it, and I also have some concerns, > > > because of the strong smell and characteristics of this oil. Also > > > because I dont know how this oil will affect the beads in other ways. > > > Then there is the traditional mustard and also sesame oil, but I still > > > need to know if these oils will be able to disinfect the beads > > > adequately from within from any fungus. > > > > > > These beads are some very special higher mukhi collector beads, and > > > PRICELESS to me so I really need to know what is best to do. > > > > > > Chandrashekhar Prabhuji, if you are reading this, I hope for your > reply! > > > > > > ~ Ole > > > > > > sacred-objects > <sacred-objects%40>, > > > "alstrup" <alstrup@> wrote: > > > > > > > > > > > > Dear Chandrashekharji, > > > > > > > > Unfortunately I dont have enough pure Sandalwood oil here right > now to > > > > soak all my new beads after the soap/brush/ water cleaning. Will it > > > > suffice to oil the beads on the surface? What is the advantage of > > > > soaking, that the oil penetrates deep into the bead? If so, for how > > > long > > > > should the beads be soaked for best effect? I do have the sesame > oil, > > > > but I am worried that the beads will assimilate the sesame smell > and I > > > > want to avoid that. What do you think? > > > > > > > > Input from others with practical experience of this is highly > welcome! > > > > > > > > Thanks, > > > > > > > > Ole > > > > > > > > > > > > sacred-objects > <sacred-objects%40>, > > > chandrashekhar phadke > > > > chphadke@ wrote: > > > > > > > > > > Dear Ole, > > > > > > > > > > Thank you very much for your mail. I am of the opinion that the > > > Sandle > > > > Wood oil may be better than that of the Sesame oil due to its strong > > > > fragnance to protect beads mainly from insects attack. Shelf life of > > > > Sandle Oil is more than that of Sesame/Mustard/Oilive Oil. Rudraksha > > > are > > > > likely to absorb more quantity of Sandle Wood oil due to its woody > > > > nature. The best way is to soak rudraksha with any oil having > > > > antimicrobial and insecticidal properties overnight and after drying > > > > thoroughly to apply sandle wood oil externally being expensive. > > > > > > > > > > Sesame Oil has similar chemical properties to that of Olive Oil > > > > (Unsaponifable properties). Mustard Oil, Seasame Oil and Coconut Oil > > > are > > > > known to have antimicrobial properties. Coconut Oil has more shelf > > > life > > > > than that of sesame or mustard oil. However, I do not have any idea > > > > about the comparative data of Mustard and Sesame Oil. > > > > > > > > > > The insect attack on beads is more serious than fungi. In tropical > > > > climate like India, tiny beetles is the major problem for Rudraksha. > > > > These beetles can easily drill holes in hard rudraksha stone (fruit) > > > > damaging the bead. The best way to avoid these beetles is to keep > > > > rudraksha mala in airy place. In temperate country like yours, > beetles > > > > may not be the problem, however, tiny mites may spoil the bead. > Mites > > > > carry fungus spores with them. Of course, mites are not that serious > > > > than beetles as far as rudraksha are concerned. > > > > > > > > > > In temperate countries, there is no strong Sunlight. In such > cases, > > > > one can store Rudraksha beads with 'Silica Gel' bags to absorb > > > moisture > > > > from microclimate of the beads. > > > > > > > > > > Thanking you and with best wishes, > > > > > > > > > > Chandrashekhar Phadke > > > > > > > > > > alstrup alstrup@ wrote: > > > > > > > > > > Dear Chandrashekharji, > > > > > > > > > > Thank you for the info, it is always nice to get your educated > views > > > > in > > > > > these matters. Do you consider Mustard oil to be better for beads > > > than > > > > > Sesame oil? Should the Sesame oil be cured first, as is > recommended > > > > when > > > > > it is prepared as ayurvedic massage oil? (This to give it higher > > > > > absorption rate) What is your insights about > > > antimicrobial/antifungal > > > > > properties of pure Sandalwood oil compared to other oils? > > > > > > > > > > As it so happens, I just received some fresh beads back from > puja in > > > > > India, some of them had developed some fresh external white > fungus, > > > > > because they had been wrapped in moist bilva leaves and inside a > > > > sealed > > > > > plastic bag. I imediately soaked/cleaned beads with pure soapy > water > > > > and > > > > > toothbrush and soaked/flushed with clean water, also shaking the > > > beads > > > > > to get as much water out from inside beads. They are now > clean. Then > > > > > they have dried in air for some days with a towel underneath. > Now I > > > > need > > > > > to soak them in oil. I have organic sesame oil, but only > enough pure > > > > > sandal wood for external coating. Should I soak overnight in > sesame > > > > oil > > > > > first, then sun-dry and then apply sandalwood oil? How long should > > > > beads > > > > > dry in sun? What if there is no useful sunlight? > > > > > > > > > > Thanking you as always for your insights in these matters, > > > > > > > > > > ~ Ole > > > > > --- In > sacred-objects<sacred-objects%40>, > > > chandrashekhar phadke > > > > > chphadke@ wrote: > > > > > > > > > > > > Dear Ole, > > > > > > > > > > > > Neem oil, though has antimicrobial properties, is thick and has > > > very > > > > > strong smell. The disadvantage of using thick oil is that it gets > > > > > polymerised in few days making its consistency like a thick paste > > > and > > > > > therefore is not suitable for Rudraksha. > > > > > > > > > > > > Oil is mainly used to protect beads from microbial infection and > > > to > > > > > give lustre to beads. Other than Mustard Oil, 'Til Oil (Sesame > Oil)' > > > > is > > > > > the best preservative for rudraksha beads. It has antifungal > > > > properties. > > > > > 'Til Oil' is also considered as auspicious. 'Til Oil' lamp is > > > believed > > > > > to emit positive energy. In Maharashtra State of India, it is a > > > usual > > > > > practice to lit 'Til Oil' lamp near the Puja altar. > > > > > > > > > > > > With best wishes, > > > > > > > > > > > > Chandrashekhar Phadke > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > alstrup alstrup@ wrote: > > > > > > > > > > > > Dear Alok Ji, > > > > > > > > > > > > Thanks for your input. Neem oil was previously discussed here, I > > > > > raised > > > > > > the point that pure coldpressed neem oil, which contains the > > > > > beneficial > > > > > > antimicrobial compunds, also has a very strong smell, so I > am not > > > > sure > > > > > > this will be preferable, as the beads will get acquire the same > > > > strong > > > > > > smell. But I have no actual experience. > > > > > > > > > > > > As for the traditional use of mustard seed oil, is there a > > > specific > > > > > > preference; from yellow or dark seeds, or does it matter? > Does the > > > > oil > > > > > > need to cured first; heated up to 100 degress celcius and the > > > cooled > > > > > > down? > > > > > > > > > > > > What is the "phoolkumari" oil made of? > > > > > > > > > > > > Thanks, > > > > > > > > > > > > ~Ole > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In > sacred-objects<sacred-objects%40>, > > > "a_jagawat" a_jagawat@ > > > > > > wrote: > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Dear Sir, > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Mustard oil protects the bead from harmful effects of > > > degradation > > > > > > > and it definitley preserves the bead. You can also use > Neem oil > > > > for > > > > > > > the same. One of the bigger Rudraksha seller i know, uses some > > > > > > > " Phoolkumari" oil for the same. Most of them use Mustard oil > > > > > > > usually and keep them soaked in oil. > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Regards, > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Alok > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In > sacred-objects<sacred-objects%40>, > > > "alstrup" alstrup@ wrote: > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Is it necessary to soak beads and for what reasons? > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > I am not sure that olive oil is good for beads, as it > was not > > > in > > > > > > > use in > > > > > > > > India, we dont know if it could reduce the longevity of the > > > wood > > > > > > > of the > > > > > > > > beads over many years? There could be a good reason why > > > mustard > > > > > > > oil is > > > > > > > > traditionally used, according to ayurveda, it is a > drying oil, > > > > > > > perhaps > > > > > > > > the fatty acid composition of mustard oil has a preservation > > > > > > > effect. > > > > > > > > There should definitely be done some research on this topic. > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Ole > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In > sacred-objects<sacred-objects%40>, > > > "Mahamuni Das" > > > > <mahamuni@> > > > > > > > > wrote: > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Any will do. I normally use olive oil. Traditionally > mustard > > > > oil > > > > > > > is > > > > > > > > used, but I don't particularly like the smell. When just > doing > > > a > > > > > > > quick > > > > > > > > fix for a bead or mala, I use Sandlewood Oil, which is > > > > definitely > > > > > > > my > > > > > > > > favorite to use, but is quite costly. When I do a good > 1-2 day > > > > > > > soak, I > > > > > > > > use Olive and then follow with a light Sandlewood for scent. > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Surya > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > - > > > > > > > > > alphanov2@ > > > > > > > > > To: > sacred-objects<sacred-objects%40> > > > > > > > > > Wednesday, August 16, 2006 6:43 AM > > > > > > > > > Re: Re: Rudraksha bead quality > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > What are the best oils for soaking a rudraksha bead? > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Here's a new way to find what you're looking for - > Answers > > > > > > Send FREE SMS to your friend's mobile from Messenger > > > Version > > > > 8. > > > > > Get it NOW > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Here's a new way to find what you're looking for - Answers > > > > > Send FREE SMS to your friend's mobile from Messenger > Version > > > 8. > > > > Get it NOW > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > ------------------------------ > > > Get your own web address for just $1.99/1st yr. We'll help. > Small > > > > Business<http://us.rd./evt=41244/*http://smallbusiness. ..com/>. > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > -- > > With best wishes > > Pandit S.P.Tata > > H-5/3, 3rd Floor > > Malviya Nagar > > New Delhi - 110017 > > Phone: 91-11-26680664 (Exclusive for incoming), 91-11-26673281, Mobile: > > 9911119235. > > Email to: sptata@ > > Website: www.astrojyoti.com > > You can contact me online 10 Am to 8 Pm IST with: > > Messengers - the user ID is s_p_tata. > > MSN Messenger - the user ID is s_p_tata@ > > > Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Guest guest Report post Posted August 28, 2006 Ole, nobody told me to do that. Must we have someone to tell us what to DO? What has happened to all the experiments that individuals do? I have been cleaning the rudrakshas in this method with no advice from anyone. So far so good. I have also cracked open the rudrakshas to see if it has any effects in side and so far is none. alstrup <alstrup > wrote: Hi Simone Not so sure about offence in this case. My point is to not boil a living thing, as stated there are other better ways to solve this problem. Who told you that boiling would cure a bead of fungus, that will not kill the spores. ~Ole sacred-objects, Simone <shombaz wrote: > > Hi Ole > > No offence here, they still work after they go through the heat treament. > Sorry to say I use the rudrakshas for the benefits they give and not for dieties that they are attached to. > I do respect the dieties but where treatment is required, like any doctor you treat the problem and not get so emotional about it. > > Simone Stay in the know. Pulse on the new .com. Check it out. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Guest guest Report post Posted August 30, 2006 I am yet to soak my new beads in oil after the fungus cleaning. Havent made up my mind yet about using either mustard or til oil, due to different recommendations of the same, while trying to get a larger supply of the pure sandalwood oil right now. Will mustard seed oil color the beads yellow? It is a hot pungent oil, I wonder if some people with sensitive skin get rash from wearing beads treated with mustard oil? Do beads smell from using this oil after drying? Is there a traditional use of til oil (sesame) for beads in India? Do beads smell from using this oil after drying? I wonder if coating of Mysore sandalwood oil will remove any leftover smell of both these oils? Thanks for any further insights on this topic, ~ Ole Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Guest guest Report post Posted August 30, 2006 Hi Ole, The beads don't turn yellow. Don't worry. Yes, you can coat the smell later with sandlewood oil, so again don't worry.. I am sure the same is true for Sesame. Take Care, Surya - alstrup sacred-objects Tuesday, August 29, 2006 7:35 PM Re: Rudraksha oil treatment ! I am yet to soak my new beads in oil after the fungus cleaning. Havent made up my mind yet about using either mustard or til oil, due to different recommendations of the same, while trying to get a larger supply of the pure sandalwood oil right now. Will mustard seed oil color the beads yellow? It is a hot pungent oil, I wonder if some people with sensitive skin get rash from wearing beads treated with mustard oil? Do beads smell from using this oil after drying? Is there a traditional use of til oil (sesame) for beads in India? Do beads smell from using this oil after drying? I wonder if coating of Mysore sandalwood oil will remove any leftover smell of both these oils? Thanks for any further insights on this topic, ~ Ole Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Guest guest Report post Posted September 1, 2006 Hi Surya, Many thanks for the input. Very much appreciated. You had any experience soaking beads in sandalwood oil? Thanks, Ole sacred-objects, "Mahamuni Das" <mahamuni wrote: > > Hi Ole, > > The beads don't turn yellow. Don't worry. > > Yes, you can coat the smell later with sandlewood oil, so again don't worry. > > I am sure the same is true for Sesame. > > Take Care, > > Surya > - > alstrup > sacred-objects > Tuesday, August 29, 2006 7:35 PM > Re: Rudraksha oil treatment ! > > > > I am yet to soak my new beads in oil after the fungus cleaning. Havent > made up my mind yet about using either mustard or til oil, due to > different recommendations of the same, while trying to get a larger > supply of the pure sandalwood oil right now. > > Will mustard seed oil color the beads yellow? It is a hot pungent oil, I > wonder if some people with sensitive skin get rash from wearing beads > treated with mustard oil? Do beads smell from using this oil after > drying? > > Is there a traditional use of til oil (sesame) for beads in India? Do > beads smell from using this oil after drying? I wonder if coating of > Mysore sandalwood oil will remove any leftover smell of both these oils? > > Thanks for any further insights on this topic, > > ~ Ole > Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Guest guest Report post Posted September 1, 2006 Not soaking, only applying. - alstrup sacred-objects Thursday, August 31, 2006 8:45 PM Re: Rudraksha oil treatment ! Hi Surya, Many thanks for the input. Very much appreciated. You had any experience soaking beads in sandalwood oil? Thanks, Ole sacred-objects, "Mahamuni Das" <mahamuni wrote: > > Hi Ole, > > The beads don't turn yellow. Don't worry. > > Yes, you can coat the smell later with sandlewood oil, so again don't worry. > > I am sure the same is true for Sesame. > > Take Care, > > Surya > - > alstrup > sacred-objects > Tuesday, August 29, 2006 7:35 PM > Re: Rudraksha oil treatment ! > > > > I am yet to soak my new beads in oil after the fungus cleaning. Havent > made up my mind yet about using either mustard or til oil, due to > different recommendations of the same, while trying to get a larger > supply of the pure sandalwood oil right now. > > Will mustard seed oil color the beads yellow? It is a hot pungent oil, I > wonder if some people with sensitive skin get rash from wearing beads > treated with mustard oil? Do beads smell from using this oil after > drying? > > Is there a traditional use of til oil (sesame) for beads in India? Do > beads smell from using this oil after drying? I wonder if coating of > Mysore sandalwood oil will remove any leftover smell of both these oils? > > Thanks for any further insights on this topic, > > ~ Ole > Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
