Bhringraj
Bhringraj
Bhringraj is also known as Kesharaj which means "Ruler of the hair". Bhringraj has been primarily used for controlling hair fall and premature greying of hair. It also promotes skin complexion and reduces skin infection.
It has anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and liver protecting properties.
Apart from hair problems, Bhringraj also helps to manage gastrointestinal disorders, respiratory tract disorders, fever, liver disorders, cuts and wounds[1-3][11].
It has anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and liver protecting properties.
Apart from hair problems, Bhringraj also helps to manage gastrointestinal disorders, respiratory tract disorders, fever, liver disorders, cuts and wounds[1-3][11].
What are the synonyms of Bhringraj?
Eclipta alba, Bhangra, Thistles, Maka, False Daisy, Markav, Angarak, Bungrah, Kesuti, Babri, Ajagara, Balari, Mockhand, Trailing Eclipta, Eclipta, Prostrata
What is the source of Bhringraj?
Plant Based
Benefits of Bhringraj
1. Liver disorders
Bhringraj is an excellent herb which can be used as a liver tonic to manage liver disorders like enlargement of the liver, fatty liver, and jaundice. It works by balancing Pitta and promoting bile flow. The liver is the main site of metabolism of the body and Bhringraj is used to improve metabolism due to its Deepan (appetizer) and Pachan (digestive) properties.
Tip:
a. Take 1/4-1/2 teaspoon of Bhringraj powder.
b. Mix with water and have it after taking light food twice a day.
c. Use for at least 1-2 months for better results.
2. Indigestion
Bhringraj is also useful in case of indigestion, constipation, and loss of appetite. This is due to its Deepan and Pachan properties. These properties help to improve Pachak Agni (digestive fire) and help in easy digestion of food.
Tip:
a. Take 1/4-1/2 teaspoon of Bhringraj powder.
b. Mix with water and have it after light food twice a day.
c. Use for at least 1-2 months for better results.
3. Anti-aging effect
Bhringraj has anti-aging action and rejuvenates the body due to its Rasayana (rejuvenating) property.
Tip:
a. Take 1-2 teaspoon of Bhringraj juice.
b. Mix with 1 glass of water and drink it on an empty stomach once a day.
4. Boost immunity
Bhringraj has Rasayana property which means it helps to increase immunity and vitality if used continuously for at least 3-4 months.
Tip:
a. Take 1/4-½ teaspoon of Bhringraj powder.
b. Mix with honey and take it twice a day after taking light food.
5. Diabetes
Bhringraj helps to control high blood sugar level due to its Tikta (bitter), Deepan (appetizer) and Pachan (digestive) properties.
Tip:
a. Take 1/4-1/2 teaspoon Bhringraj powder.
b. Mix with water and have it after light food twice a day.
Bhringraj is an excellent herb which can be used as a liver tonic to manage liver disorders like enlargement of the liver, fatty liver, and jaundice. It works by balancing Pitta and promoting bile flow. The liver is the main site of metabolism of the body and Bhringraj is used to improve metabolism due to its Deepan (appetizer) and Pachan (digestive) properties.
Tip:
a. Take 1/4-1/2 teaspoon of Bhringraj powder.
b. Mix with water and have it after taking light food twice a day.
c. Use for at least 1-2 months for better results.
2. Indigestion
Bhringraj is also useful in case of indigestion, constipation, and loss of appetite. This is due to its Deepan and Pachan properties. These properties help to improve Pachak Agni (digestive fire) and help in easy digestion of food.
Tip:
a. Take 1/4-1/2 teaspoon of Bhringraj powder.
b. Mix with water and have it after light food twice a day.
c. Use for at least 1-2 months for better results.
3. Anti-aging effect
Bhringraj has anti-aging action and rejuvenates the body due to its Rasayana (rejuvenating) property.
Tip:
a. Take 1-2 teaspoon of Bhringraj juice.
b. Mix with 1 glass of water and drink it on an empty stomach once a day.
4. Boost immunity
Bhringraj has Rasayana property which means it helps to increase immunity and vitality if used continuously for at least 3-4 months.
Tip:
a. Take 1/4-½ teaspoon of Bhringraj powder.
b. Mix with honey and take it twice a day after taking light food.
5. Diabetes
Bhringraj helps to control high blood sugar level due to its Tikta (bitter), Deepan (appetizer) and Pachan (digestive) properties.
Tip:
a. Take 1/4-1/2 teaspoon Bhringraj powder.
b. Mix with water and have it after light food twice a day.
Precautions when using Bhringraj
Allergy
Modern Science View
Use Bhringraj only under a doctor’s supervision if you are allergic or hypersensitive to Bhringraj or its constituents[4].
Breastfeeding
Ayurvedic View
Use Bhringraj under doctor’s supervision during breastfeeding.
Pregnancy
Ayurvedic View
Use Bhringraj under doctor’s supervision during pregnancy.
Side Effects
Important
Ayurvedic View
Use Bhringraj only in a recommended dosage as high dosage can cause stomach problems due to its Ushna (hot) potency.
Recommended Dosage of Bhringraj
- Bhringraj Juice - 1-2 teaspoon twice a day.
- Bhringraj Powder - ¼- ½ teaspoon twice a day.
- Bhringraj Capsule - 1-2 capsule twice a day.
- Bhringraj Tablet - 1-2 tablets twice day.
How to use Bhringraj
1. Bhringraj fresh Juice
a. Take 1-2 teaspoon of Bhringraj juice.
b. Add some water to it and drink it before meals, once a day.
2. Bhringraj Powder
a. Take ¼-½ teaspoon of Bhringraj powder.
b. Mix it with honey.
c. Take it after taking light food twice a day.
3. Bhringraj Capsule
a. Take 1-2 Bhringraj capsule.
b. Swallow it with water after lunch.
c. Take it twice a day.
4. Bhringraj Tablet
a. Take 1-2 Bhringraj tablet.
b. Swallow it with water after lunch.
c. Take it twice a day.
a. Take 1-2 teaspoon of Bhringraj juice.
b. Add some water to it and drink it before meals, once a day.
2. Bhringraj Powder
a. Take ¼-½ teaspoon of Bhringraj powder.
b. Mix it with honey.
c. Take it after taking light food twice a day.
3. Bhringraj Capsule
a. Take 1-2 Bhringraj capsule.
b. Swallow it with water after lunch.
c. Take it twice a day.
4. Bhringraj Tablet
a. Take 1-2 Bhringraj tablet.
b. Swallow it with water after lunch.
c. Take it twice a day.
Benefits of Bhringraj
1. Premature hair greying
Bhringraj helps to control premature greying of hair. It has an ability to rejuvenate hair due to its Rasayana property.
2. Hair loss
Bhringraj is one of the most useful Ayurvedic herbs that is used to manage hair fall. According to Ayurveda, the reason for hair fall is an aggravated Vata dosha. Using Bhringraj helps in balancing Vata and remove excessive dryness. It is also good for preventing baldness and thinning of hair due to its unique Keshya (hair growth enhancer) property.
Tip:
a. Use Bhringraj powder, paste or oil on the scalp 2-3 times a week.
b. For better results, use for at least 4-6 months.
3. Wound healing
Bhringraj helps in quick healing of the wound, decreases swelling and brings back the normal texture of the skin. It also works on cut and injury due to its Ropan (healing) property.
Tip:
a. Make a paste of Bhringraj powder or mix it with any oil and apply on the affected area twice a day.
3. Skin infection
Bhringraj is good for skin infection, minor skin allergies due to its antimicrobial property. This is because of its Ruksha (dry) and Tikta (bitter) nature.
Tip:
a. Make a paste of Bhringraj powder or mix it with any oil and apply on the affected area twice a day.
4. Crack heels
Crack heels are a common problem. It is also known as Padadari in Ayurveda and is caused due to vitiation of Vata. It reduces moisture in the skin which makes the skin dry and patchy. Bhringraj helps in case of cracked heels and reduces the pain associated with it. This is due to its Vata balancing and Ropan (healing) properties.
Tip:
a. Apply Bhringraj powder with honey to manage cracked heels.
Bhringraj helps to control premature greying of hair. It has an ability to rejuvenate hair due to its Rasayana property.
2. Hair loss
Bhringraj is one of the most useful Ayurvedic herbs that is used to manage hair fall. According to Ayurveda, the reason for hair fall is an aggravated Vata dosha. Using Bhringraj helps in balancing Vata and remove excessive dryness. It is also good for preventing baldness and thinning of hair due to its unique Keshya (hair growth enhancer) property.
Tip:
a. Use Bhringraj powder, paste or oil on the scalp 2-3 times a week.
b. For better results, use for at least 4-6 months.
3. Wound healing
Bhringraj helps in quick healing of the wound, decreases swelling and brings back the normal texture of the skin. It also works on cut and injury due to its Ropan (healing) property.
Tip:
a. Make a paste of Bhringraj powder or mix it with any oil and apply on the affected area twice a day.
3. Skin infection
Bhringraj is good for skin infection, minor skin allergies due to its antimicrobial property. This is because of its Ruksha (dry) and Tikta (bitter) nature.
Tip:
a. Make a paste of Bhringraj powder or mix it with any oil and apply on the affected area twice a day.
4. Crack heels
Crack heels are a common problem. It is also known as Padadari in Ayurveda and is caused due to vitiation of Vata. It reduces moisture in the skin which makes the skin dry and patchy. Bhringraj helps in case of cracked heels and reduces the pain associated with it. This is due to its Vata balancing and Ropan (healing) properties.
Tip:
a. Apply Bhringraj powder with honey to manage cracked heels.
Precautions when using Bhringraj
Allergy
Modern Science View
1. Apply Bhringraj powder to a small area first to test for possible allergic reaction[4].
2. Always use Bhringraj under doctor’s supervision, if you are allergic to Bhringraj or its constituents[4].
2. Always use Bhringraj under doctor’s supervision, if you are allergic to Bhringraj or its constituents[4].
Ayurvedic View
Use Bhringraj powder with rose water if your skin is hypersensitive. This is due to its Ushna (hot) potency.
Side Effects
Important
Ayurvedic View
Although there are not many side-effects of Bhringraj, it is advisable to avoid leaving Bhringraj paste overnight on the scalp. This is because you may catch a cold as Bhringraj is Sita virya (cold in potency).
Recommended Dosage of Bhringraj
- Bhringraj Powder - ½-1 teaspoon, two-three times a week.
How to use Bhringraj
1. Bhringraj Powder
a. Take ½-1 teaspoon of Bhringraj powder.
b. Mix with Coconut oil and massage on the scalp.
c. Leave it for 1-2 hours and wash it with any herbal shampoo.
d. Repeat this thrice a week.
2. Bhringraj Leaves Paste
a. Take a bunch of fresh Bhringraj leaves.
b. Make a paste and take ½-1 teaspoon of this paste.
c. Apply it evenly on the scalp and leave for 5-8 hours.
d. Wash thoroughly with tap water.
e. Use this remedy 2-3 times a week to manage baldness.
3. Bhringraj Oil
a. Take a handful of fresh Bhringraj leaves.
b. Chop it and add these to a cup of Coconut oil.
c. Heat the mixture for five minutes.
d. Cool and strain the oil and store it in a bottle.
e. You can even use Bhringraj powder (3 teaspoons) instead of leaves to prepare this oil at home.
a. Take ½-1 teaspoon of Bhringraj powder.
b. Mix with Coconut oil and massage on the scalp.
c. Leave it for 1-2 hours and wash it with any herbal shampoo.
d. Repeat this thrice a week.
2. Bhringraj Leaves Paste
a. Take a bunch of fresh Bhringraj leaves.
b. Make a paste and take ½-1 teaspoon of this paste.
c. Apply it evenly on the scalp and leave for 5-8 hours.
d. Wash thoroughly with tap water.
e. Use this remedy 2-3 times a week to manage baldness.
3. Bhringraj Oil
a. Take a handful of fresh Bhringraj leaves.
b. Chop it and add these to a cup of Coconut oil.
c. Heat the mixture for five minutes.
d. Cool and strain the oil and store it in a bottle.
e. You can even use Bhringraj powder (3 teaspoons) instead of leaves to prepare this oil at home.
Frequently asked questions
Modern Science View
Bhringraj oil is sold under various brands in India. The commonly available ones include Baidyanath, Patanjali, Biotique, Khadi, Dabur, Indulekha and Soulflower Bhringraj oil.
Modern Science View
The common brands of Bhringraj powder in India are Bhringraj powder Patanjali, Herbal hills Bhringraj powder and Banjaras Bhringraj powder.
Modern Science View
A. Requirements:
1. Bhringraj leaves
2. Coconut or any base oil
B. How to make Bhringraj oil:
1. Take a handful of fresh Bhringraj leaves.
2. Chop it and add these to a cup of Coconut oil.
3. Heat the mixture for five minutes, cool, strain and use it for hair growth.
4. You can even use Bhringraj powder (3 teaspoons) instead of leaves to prepare this oil at home.
5. Use this oil atleast once a week for better results.
1. Bhringraj leaves
2. Coconut or any base oil
B. How to make Bhringraj oil:
1. Take a handful of fresh Bhringraj leaves.
2. Chop it and add these to a cup of Coconut oil.
3. Heat the mixture for five minutes, cool, strain and use it for hair growth.
4. You can even use Bhringraj powder (3 teaspoons) instead of leaves to prepare this oil at home.
5. Use this oil atleast once a week for better results.
Modern Science View
1. Take ½-1 teaspoon of Bhringraj powder.
2. Mix with Coconut oil and massage on the scalp.
3. Leave it for 1-2 hours and wash it with any herbal shampoo.
4. Repeat this thrice a week to fight hair fall and premature greying of hair.
2. Mix with Coconut oil and massage on the scalp.
3. Leave it for 1-2 hours and wash it with any herbal shampoo.
4. Repeat this thrice a week to fight hair fall and premature greying of hair.
Modern Science View
Mahabhringaraj oil is one of the commonly used formulations of Bhringraj oil for hair growth. This oil contains Bhringraj extract with Sesame oil as the base oil along with a whole lot of various herbs such as Manjishth, Mulethi and Anantamul.
Modern Science View
The cost of Bhringraj oil can range anywhere between Rs 135 - Rs 150 online for a 120 ml bottle.
Modern Science View
Bhringraj is known to be beneficial for the liver. The antioxidants present in this herb lowers the toxic load on the liver and thus improve its overall functioning[7]. It is also known to prevent inflammation of the liver due to its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory property[4].
Tip:
a. Take 2-3 gm of Bhringraj powder with water after taking light food twice a day.
b. Use for at least 1-2 months for better results.
Tip:
a. Take 2-3 gm of Bhringraj powder with water after taking light food twice a day.
b. Use for at least 1-2 months for better results.
Modern Science View
Yes, Bhringraj may be useful in managing indigestion and other stomach problems. It has antimicrobial activity which might help manage diarrhea and indigestion. The buildup of toxins in the body and mucus discharge in the stool are signs of indigestion. Bhringraj helps clear these toxins and enhance the process of digestion and also control diarrhea[8][10].
Tip:
a. Take 1/4-1/2 teaspoon of Bhringraj powder.
b. Mix with water and have it after light food twice a day.
c. Use for at least 1-2 months for better results.
Tip:
a. Take 1/4-1/2 teaspoon of Bhringraj powder.
b. Mix with water and have it after light food twice a day.
c. Use for at least 1-2 months for better results.
Modern Science View
Yes, Bhringraj may be useful in boosting immunity. Bhringraj contains an active ingredient which aids in the production of white blood cells. This offers protection against infections and helps you stay healthy[9].
Tips:
a. Take 1/4-½ teaspoon of Bhringraj powder.
b. Mix with honey and take it twice a day after taking light food.
Tips:
a. Take 1/4-½ teaspoon of Bhringraj powder.
b. Mix with honey and take it twice a day after taking light food.
Modern Science View
There is no clear evidence on the counter-interactions of Bhringraj with prescription and OTC (Over the counter) drugs. Hence, it is better to consult your doctor before taking Bhringraj in any form.
Ayurvedic View
1. Take ¼ -1/2 teaspoon of Bhringraj powder.
2. Mix with water and have it after taking light food twice a day.
3. Use it for at least 1-2 months for better hair growth.
2. Mix with water and have it after taking light food twice a day.
3. Use it for at least 1-2 months for better hair growth.
Modern Science View
Bhringraj is one of the most common herbs used to promote hair growth. It is also used as an active ingredient in hair oils and hair coloring agents. Most people use Bhringraj oil to fight hair fall and greying of hair[1].
Modern Science View
Yes, Bhringraj has potent antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Due to these properties, it may be useful in managing skin diseases[4].
Bhringraj also repairs skin. It relieves inflammation and promotes healing of cuts, skin injuries and wounds.
Bhringraj also repairs skin. It relieves inflammation and promotes healing of cuts, skin injuries and wounds.
Modern Science View
Bhringraj oil is effective in controlling hair fall and premature greying of hair.
Tips to use Bhringraj oil:
1. Take a small amount of Bhringraj oil.
2. Apply it to the scalp and hair.
3. Leave it overnight.
4. Wash it with any herbal shampoo the next day.
5. Repeat this twice a week for better results.
Tips to use Bhringraj oil:
1. Take a small amount of Bhringraj oil.
2. Apply it to the scalp and hair.
3. Leave it overnight.
4. Wash it with any herbal shampoo the next day.
5. Repeat this twice a week for better results.
Modern Science View
Yes, Bhringraj oil mixed with Castor oil is good for hair growth.
Tip:
1. Take 2 tablespoons Bhringraj oil. Add 1 teaspoon Castor oil to it and mix well.
2. Warm this mixture a little.
3. Apply on the scalp and massage well for atleast 10-15 minutes.
Note:
Never use Castor oil alone as it is viscous in nature and can cause hair felting (scalp disorder in which the hair becomes entangled as a result of Castor oil application). Severe hair felting might lead to chopping off the hair.
Tip:
1. Take 2 tablespoons Bhringraj oil. Add 1 teaspoon Castor oil to it and mix well.
2. Warm this mixture a little.
3. Apply on the scalp and massage well for atleast 10-15 minutes.
Note:
Never use Castor oil alone as it is viscous in nature and can cause hair felting (scalp disorder in which the hair becomes entangled as a result of Castor oil application). Severe hair felting might lead to chopping off the hair.
References
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- Joshi S.Indigenous drugs.Practical Pharmacognosy (1st ed.).Frank Brothers;2009.
- Jahan R, Al-Nahain A, Majumder S, et al.Ethnopharmacological significance of Eclipta alba (L.) Hassk.(Asteraceae).Int Sch Res Notices.2014;385969.
- Puri HS.\"Bhringraj\".Rasayana: Ayurvedic Herbs for Longevity and Rejuvenation(1st ed).CRC Press; 2003.
- Kumar V, Singh PK.Ethnomedicinal plants used as antidote for snake-bite and scorpion-sting in Bundelkhand (U.P.), India.IOSR J Environ Sci Toxicol Food Technol.2014;8(1):52–55.
- Sharma A, Sharma MS, Mishra A, et. al. A review on Thar plants used in liver diseases.IJRPC.2011;1:224–236.
- Banerjee A, Shrivastava N, Kothari A, et al. Antiulcer activity of methanol extract of Eclipta alba.Indian J Pharm Sci.2005;67(2):165–168.
- Jayathirtha MG, Mishra SH.Preliminary immunomodulatory activities of methanol extracts of Eclipta alba and Centella asiatica.Phytomedicine.2004;11(4):361-5.
- Yadav NK, Arya RK, Dev K, et al.Alcoholic extract of Eclipta alba shows in vitro antioxidant and anticancer activity without exhibiting toxicological effects.Oxidative Medicine and Cellular Longevity.2017:18.
- Jahan R, Al-Nahain A, Majumder S, et al.Ethnopharmacological Significance of Eclipta alba (L.) Hassk. (Asteraceae).Int Sch Res Notices. 2014;2014:22.
Disclaimer
The content is purely informative and educational in nature and should not be construed as medical advice. Please use the content only in consultation with an appropriate certified medical or healthcare professional.