The term "Rudraksha" has been derived from the combination of two Sanscrit words, Rudra meaning "Lord Shiva" and aksha meaning "tears". Based on Vedic and Hindu scriptures, the mystical powers of the Rudraksha beads are said to bring the wearer health, happiness, and success, and to facilitate medication.

Rudraksha is a seed and each has naturally formed sections called "faces" or "mukha" in Sanscrit.