The Rudraksha is a large evergreen broad-leaved tree which grows in the area from the Genetic Plain to the foothills of Himalayas. Rudraksha trees are also found in middle areas of Nepal. Rudraksha is also used for treatment of various diseases in traditional Indian medicine.

The Rudrakshas term is used for In Sanskrit rudraksha literally means "the eye of Rudra" or "red-eyed", from rud, "to cry," and aksha, meaning "eye". In one story by Saivites, God himself (Siva) shed a tear, on viewing the misfortunes of humanity. This single tear became the first Rudraksha tree, and a sign of his compassion.

Rudraraka is a common aid to worship in Saivism. Rudraksha mala are worn by Hindu monks, and many devotees wear a single bead hung from their neck. The use of rudraraksha can distinguish denomination amongst Hindus. Some Vaishnavites use beads made of tulsi while Saivites use rudraraksa.