Amazing Health Benefits of Bhringraj for Hair, Skin and Health

Bhringraj is considered one of the most powerful Ayurvedic herbs. In India, it is also known as Keshraj due to its usefulness towards hair growth.

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, and Cinnamon, Bhringraj has been an important herb in Ayurvedic medicines. 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 Tri dosha	Balances Vata and Kapha dosha

Nutritional Composition of Bhringraj 

Bhringraj contains following

• Polypeptides
• Calcium
• Steroids
• Vitamins D and E
• Iron, and magnesium

Benefits of Bhringraj for Hair Growth

1. 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]

2. 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 of the main ingredients of Adivasi Hair Oil. 

3. Hair Conditioning

It works as a natural hair conditioner. By deep conditioning frizzy hair, it improves its texture and smoothness.

4. Slows Down Hair-Graying

The darkening properties of Bhringraj make it a natural hair dye that helps in reducing premature graying.

5. 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

1. Protects the Liver From Damage

In Ayurveda, Bhringraj 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]

2. 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.

3. 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 

Benefits of Bhringraj for Skin

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

1. 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.

2. 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

1. Boosts Immunity

According to some scientific studies,⁵ Bhringraj includes active components⁶ that help in the production of white blood cells. It protects against infections and boosts overall immunity.

2. 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 a healthy lifestyle and overall well-being.

3. 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.

4. 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

5. Ease Respiratory Issues

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 it into 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.

Benefits of Adding Bhringraj to Your Diet

One can easily incorporate Bhringraj into their diet in the following form:

1. 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.

2. 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.

3. 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 is a powerful herb with a long history in Ayurveda and many health benefits. Its rich nutrients can enhance hair health, support liver function, and contribute to overall wellness. Whether you’re looking to boost your hair’s shine or improve liver health, Bhringraj offers a natural option.