The Naga Jvara Mantra is a specialized incantation from the Garuda Purana (specifically the Garuda Purana, Preta Khanda, chapters on naga dosha) and Ayurvedic texts such as the Sushruta Samhita (Kalpa Sthana, chapters on snake venom). It is employed to counteract naga jvara, a condition of fever and toxicity arising from snake bites or serpent-related afflictions. The mantra invokes Garuda, the divine eagle and vehicle of Vishnu, who is the eternal enemy of serpents and master of antidotes, as well as Manasa Devi, the goddess of snakes worshiped in Bengal and Kerala.
The primary beej-akshara is 'Gam' (गं), representing Garuda's seed syllable, often combined with 'Om' and 'Hraum' for purification. Phonetically, the mantra's sibilants and gutturals are believed to stimulate the body's heat and energy channels to neutralize venom. Traditional purposes include relief from serpent fever, removal of naga dosha (karmic afflictions from harming snakes), and protection from venom.
Chanting is recommended 108 times daily, especially during sunrise or sunset, and on Nag Panchami or Garuda Panchami. Ritual setting involves facing east, using a copper vessel with water, and visualizing Garuda holding a serpent. Cautions: This mantra should not be used as a substitute for emergency medical treatment; it is a complementary spiritual practice.
According to the Garuda Purana, improper chanting without purification may aggravate the condition. The mantra is also found in the Mantra Mahodadhi (chapter on graha and naga shanti).
Salutations to the serpent fever, with the seed syllable Gam.
The mantra contains the beej-akshara 'Gam' (गं), which is the seed syllable of Garuda, the divine eagle and enemy of serpents. This syllable is believed to invoke Garuda's power to neutralize serpent venom and fever.