Bhringraj (Eclipta prostrata) is considered one of the most powerful ayurvedic herbs. In India, it is also known as Keshraj (king of hair) due to its usefulness towards hair growth.
What is Bhringraj?
Bhringraj belongs to the sunflower family. Also known as Eclipta alba is commonly called false daisy. In Sanskrit it is called “Bhringraja” and “Tekaraja” and its common Hindi names are “Bhangra” and “Bhangarya.
History And Traditional Uses Of Bhringraj
Along with Ashwagandha, Amla, Shilajit, Turmeric, Tulsi, Gokshura, Vidarikand, Brahmi, Giloy, Punarnava, Cinnamon, Bhringraj has been an important herb in Ayurvedic medicine for centuries. It is a plant that grows widely in marshy places in India. The leaves of plants are used to prepare the oil. The oil is prepared by keeping the leaves immersed in oil, preferably in coconut oil until the medicinal contents are released in the coconut oil. This oil thus obtained is used as hair oil or is added to make various other products.
Bhringraj’s medicinal attributes make it apt for usage in various Ayurvedic treatments.
Ayurvedic Profile of Bhringraj
| Guna (Qualities) | Laghu (light to digest) and Rooksha (dryness) |
| Rasa (Taste) | Tikta (bitter) and Katu (pungent) |
| Veerya (Potency) | Ushna (Hot) |
| Vipaka (Metabolic property after digestion) | Katu (Pungent) |
| Effects on tridosha | Balances Vata and Kapha dosha |
Nutritional Composition of Bhringraj
Bhringraj contains following
- Polypeptides
- Calcium
- Steroids
- Vitamins D and E
- Iron, and magnesium
Health Benefits of Bhringraj
Health Benefits of Bhringraj for Hair
Promotes Hair Growth
Bhringraj is synonymous with “Kesharaja” which means “Ruler of hairs”. It contains active compounds that increase blood circulation and promote hair growth by stimulating hair follicle regeneration. It prevents hair fall and baldness. [1]
Treats Dandruff and Dry Scalp
Bhringraj is known as one of the best ayurvedic herbs for hair growth. Its antifungal properties minimize dandruff and promote healthy scalp growth. [2] That is why Bhringraj is one the main ingredients of Adivasi Hair Oil.
Hair Conditioning
It works as a natural hair conditioner. By deep conditioning frizzy hair, it improves its texture and smoothness.
Slows Down Hair-Graying
The darkening properties of Bhringraj make it a natural hair dye that helps in reducing premature graying.
Treats Scalp Infection
Its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties help keep the scalp healthy, which is essential for healthy hair growth.
Health Benefits of Bhringraj for Liver
Bhringraj has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, along with wedelolactone and dimethyl-wedelolactone, which perform anti-toxic activities, and aid in the regeneration of liver cells.
It protects the liver from the following health related issues:
- Loss of appetite
- Hepatic steatosis (Fatty liver disease)
- Hepatomegaly (Liver enlargement)
- Liver fibrosis (scarring of the liver)
- Hepatitis (Liver Inflammation)
- Splenomegaly (Spleen enlargement)
- Jaundice
Protects the Liver From Damage
In Ayurveda, Bringhraj is often used as one of the potent herbs to heal the liver. It has hepatoprotective and antioxidant properties that allow it to act as a shield for liver cells and protect it against damage from free radicals. [3]
Promotes Liver Detoxification
Bhringraj is used in various liver health supplements as its cleansing properties help the natural breakdown of toxins and detoxify the liver by flushing them out.
Improves Gut Health
Due to its Deepan and Pachan properties, Bhringraj has been used in Ayurveda for the treatment of gut related disorders like loss of appetite, indigestion, constipation and uneasy bowel movements.
Bhringraj aids in improving gut health by preventing the excess secretion of gastric juices thereby maintaining an ideal gut pH level. Its antispasmodic properties and anti-inflammatory properties aid in managing the following gastrointestinal disorders:
- Diarrhea
- Dysentery
- Indigestion
- Stomach contractions/spasms
- Gastric Ulcer
Skin Health Benefits
While Bhringraj is majorly famous for its hair benefits, one would be surprised to find out how effective it is for the skin. [4]
The antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties soothe symptoms of the following skin conditions:
- Psoriasis
- Eczema
- Acne
- Pruritus
- Cysts
- Blemishes
Promotes Wound Healing
It has healing properties and aids in a faster wound recovery process. Its antimicrobial properties prevent infection along with providing a soothing impact on minor cuts, injuries, and burns.
Delays the Signs of Aging
Its anti-aging and antioxidant properties help reduce early signs of aging such as fine lines and wrinkles. It rejuvenates the skin, protects skin from harmful UV rays, improves skin texture, and enhances glow.
Other Health Benefits
Boosts Immunity
According to some scientific studies,5 Bringhraj includes active components6 that help in the production of white blood cells. It protects against infections and boosts overall immunity.
Relieve Stress
Bhringraj when messaged on the head or body in oil form helps relieve stiff muscles, provides a cooling effect, and soothes the body. It helps reduce stress, rejuvenates energy, and promotes healthy lifestyle and overall well-being.
Regulates Blood Sugar Levels
According to some studies7, Bhringraj helps in high blood sugar control as it contains an active compound that is insulin-sensitive. Its hypoglycaemic property assists in enhancing the production of insulin from the pancreatic β-cells and aids in reducing the breakdown of starch into glucose thereby resulting in healthy blood glucose levels.
Protects against Heart Disease
Bhringaraj is rich in antioxidant properties which help regulate the following:
- High blood pressure
- Regulates cholesterol
- Strengthens the heart muscles
- Prevents lipid buildup in the blood vessels
Ease Respiratory Issue
Its antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and anti-bronchodilator properties help ease symptoms of asthma, cough, cold, and bronchitis.
How To Use Bhringraj For Different Health Concerns
For Hair Care
You can incorporate Bhringraj oil and pack in your hair care routine.
Steps to Apply Bhringraj oil
- Take a few drops of oil and apply it to your scalp and roots.
- Massage it gently
- Leave it overnight
- For better results apply it twice a week.
Steps to Make Bhringraj Paste
- Take a few Bhringraj leaves and grind them to make a powder
- Mix 1 tablespoon of almond oil and honey to get the desired mixture
- Apply it on your hair and leave it for 1 hour
- Wash your hair with warm water and later rinse it with cold water
- For better results apply it twice a week.
Incorporating Bhringraj into your diet
One can easily incorporate Bhringraj into their diet in the following form:
Bhringraj Powder or Churan
Bhringraj powder is easily available in markets and one should not consume it without consulting a doctor about its dosage.
One can also make their own Bhringraj powder at home:
- Wash the desired amount of Bhringraj leaves (depending on the quantity you wish to prepare) and dry them under sunlight.
- Once they are completely dry, grind them using a grinder or mortar and pestle.
- To get finer consistency you can sift the powder through a fine mesh.
- Store the powder in an airtight container and you are good to go for months.
Bhringraj Juice
Bhringraj Juice is the Decoction obtained from its leaves or flower extract. It’s easily available in the market. One can also make Bhringraj juice at home by following simple steps:
- Take 5-7 fresh Bhringraj leaves and wash them thoroughly.
- Take a blender and add freshly washed leaves along with one cup of water, a tablespoon of honey (you can add or decrease as per your preference), and a few drops of lemon juice.
- Blend it well
- Strain it and it’s ready to consume.
Bhringraj Tea
Ready-to-make Bhringraj tea is easily available in markets. One can also make their own Bhringraj tea by following simple steps:
- Boil 1 cup of water in a pot.
- In boiling water add 3-4 Bhringraj leaves
- Let the leaves boil in water for 5-7 minutes
- After 5-7 minutes strain the tea and it’s ready to drink
- Add honey as per your preference.
Do not consume Bhringraj powder, tea, or juice without consulting any doctor. Excessive consumption can negatively affect your health.
Side Effects
Bhringraj may have the following side effects:
- Low Blood Pressure
- Itching
- Frequent Urination
- Nausea
- Redness
Conclusion
Bhringraj herb has numerous health benefits be it for hair, skin, or boosting immunity naturally. However, more study is required in this area.
Nidhi Bhardwaj is a content writer with a creative edge towards science. She is currently pursuing her MBA.
Her love for expressing via words has inspired her to venture into creative writing. She is intrigued to explore various unfamiliar fields and treasures of knowledge the world has to offer.
She desires to share her experience and learnings with readers from all walks of life.