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Ayurvedic View By
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MD Pharmacology, MBBS
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Bhringraj

Bhringraj
Bhringraj is also known as Kesharaj which means “Ruler of the hair”. It is rich in proteins, vitamins and antioxidants which help protect the body against certain infections.
Bhringraj oil is is effective in promoting hair growth as well as reducing the greying of hair. This is due to the presence of various nutrients in Bhringraj that provide nourishment to the hair scalp. According to Ayurveda, Bhringraj juice rejuvenates the skin and thereby helps reduce the signs of aging such as fine lines, wrinkles and patchy skin due to its anti-aging property. Bhringraj powder along with a carrier oil (like coconut oil) can also be used to manage skin infections and allergies due to its antimicrobial property.
Taking Bhringraj powder along with water helps in the management of cholesterol levels due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It also protects the liver cells against damage caused by free radicals due to its hepatoprotective and antioxidant properties. Taking Bhringraj leaves in the powdered form increases the production of urine due to its diuretic property and therefore helps to manage urinary complications. Bhringraj is also beneficial in managing the symptoms of gastrointestinal disorders (such as diarrhea and dysentery) like contractions or spasms in the stomach, intestine or urinary bladder due to its antispasmodic property.
It is advisable to use Bhringraj in the recommended dosage as high dosage may cause stomach problems[1-3][4][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. 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.

4. 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.

5. 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.

Precautions when using Bhringraj

Allergy
scientific
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
Ayurvedic View
Use Bhringraj under doctor’s supervision during breastfeeding.
Pregnancy
ayurvedic
Ayurvedic View
Use Bhringraj under doctor’s supervision during pregnancy.
Side Effects
Important
ayurvedic
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.

Benefits of Bhringraj

1. 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.

2. Premature hair greying
Bhringraj helps to control premature greying of hair. It has an ability to rejuvenate hair due to its Rasayana property.

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.

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.

5. 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.

Precautions when using Bhringraj

Allergy
scientific
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].
ayurvedic
Ayurvedic View
Use Bhringraj powder with rose water if your skin is hypersensitive. This is due to its Ushna (hot) 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.

Frequently asked questions

Q. What are the brands of Bhringraj oil?

scientific
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.

Q. What are the brands of Bhringraj powder?

scientific
Modern Science View
The common brands of Bhringraj powder in India are Bhringraj powder Patanjali, Herbal hills Bhringraj powder and Banjaras Bhringraj powder.

Q. How to use Bhringraj powder for hair?

scientific
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.

Q. What is Mahabhringraj oil?

scientific
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.

Q. What is the price of Bhringraj oil?

scientific
Modern Science View
The cost of Bhringraj oil can range anywhere between Rs 135 - Rs 150 online for a 120 ml bottle.

Q. Is Bhringraj good for the liver?

scientific
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.

Q. Does Bhringraj help to fight indigestion and other stomach problems?

scientific
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.

Q. How does Bhringraj boost immunity?

scientific
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.

Q. Can I take Bhringraj with prescription and non-prescription medicines?

scientific
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.

Q. How much time does Bhringraj powder take to grow hair if consumed daily?

ayurvedic
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.

Q. What are the benefits of Bhringraj powder?

scientific
Modern Science View
Bhringraj powder has various health benefits. Powdered leaves of Bhringraj are found to be effective in the management of high cholesterol and liver toxicity due to its hepatoprotective activity. It also prevents seizures and improves cardiovascular health by reducing arterial pressure. Bhringraj powder has diuretic property which helps to manage urinary complications by increasing the production of urine. Furthermore, it is helpful in managing skin diseases due to its antioxidant property as it prevents cell damage caused by free radicals. It also protects the skin from harmful ultraviolet radiation[4].
ayurvedic
Ayurvedic View
Bhringraj powder is very beneficial to prevent hair fall due to its Keshya (hair growth enhancer) property. It helps to maintain good digestion and appetite due to its Ushna (hot), Deepan (appetizer) and Pachan (digestion) properties. It also helps to prevent constipation due to its Rechana (laxative) property. Bhringraj is helpful in maintaining your overall health due to its Rasayana (rejuvenation) property.

Q. Can eating Bhringraj make my hair grow more?

scientific
Modern Science View
Yes, consumption of Bhringraj might be helpful in hair growth. Bhringraj is one of the main constituents for herbal preparations used in the management of hair loss due to its antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic properties. It also helps fight hair fall and greying of hair[15].
ayurvedic
Ayurvedic View
Yes, by consuming Bhringraj churna you can make your hair grow longer and healthier. It helps to prevent hair fall and nourishes hair roots for good hair growth due to its Keshya (hair growth enhancer) property.

Q. Does Bhringraj help in dealing with dysentery?

scientific
Modern Science View
Yes, Bhringraj helps manage gastrointestinal disorders such as diarrhea and dysentery. Bhringraj leaves have antispasmodic properties that prevent contractions or spasms in the stomach, intestine and urinary bladder that help relieve dysentery[4].
ayurvedic
Ayurvedic View
Dysentery is a condition of passing out excessive watery stools which occurs due to an imbalance of Vata dosha and results in the accumulation of Ama (toxin remains in the body due to incomplete digestion). Bhringraj might help to manage this condition due to its Vata balancing, Deepan (appetizer) and Pachan (digestion) properties. This helps to digest the accumulated Ama and prevent the passage of watery stools.

Q. Does Bhringraj help with gastric ulcers?

scientific
Modern Science View
Yes, Bhringraj might help reduce gastric ulcers. Stomach or gastric ulcers are caused by the excessive secretion of gastric acid. Bhringraj maintains the gastric pH of the gut by preventing oversecretion of gastric acid due to its anti-secretory and gastroprotective property. Bhringraj also has anti-inflammatory property which reduces the pain and swelling associated with ulcers[11].

Q. Does Bhringraj help ease respiratory problems like asthma and bronchitis?

scientific
Modern Science View
Yes, Bhringraj helps ease respiratory problems such as asthma and bronchitis due to its anti-inflammatory and anti-bronchodilator properties. It helps dilate the respiratory air passages which eases breathing. It also suppresses allergic responses in asthmatic patients and prevents inflammation in bronchitis patients[14].
ayurvedic
Ayurvedic View
Respiratory problems like asthma and bronchitis occur due to an imbalance of Kapha dosha. It results in the accumulation of toxins in the wind pipe which obstructs the respiratory pathway. Bhringraj helps to manage these conditions due to its Kapha balancing and Ushna (hot) properties. This helps to melt the toxins and clears the respiratory obstruction.

Q. What are the benefits of Bhringraj for hair?

scientific
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].

Q. Does Bhringraj help to manage skin infections?

scientific
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.

Q. What is the benefit of using Bhringraj oil?

scientific
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.

Q. Can I mix Bhringraj oil with Castor oil?

scientific
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.

Q. Is Bhringraj hair oil good for white hair?

scientific
Modern Science View
Yes, Bhringraj hair oil might be good for white hair. Oil extracted from Bhringraj leaves can be applied on the scalp to darken white hair. It is also used in hair dyes and shampoos[12][13].
ayurvedic
Ayurvedic View
White hair generally occur due to an imbalance of Kapha dosha. Bhringraj hair oil when applied helps to manage white hair due to its Kapha balancing and Keshya (hair tonic) properties. This also helps to maintain good quality of hair.

References

  1. Barve K, Dighe A.\"Hair colours/dyes\".The Chemistry and Applications of Sustainable Natural Hair Products (Illustrated ed.).Springer;2016.
  2. Khalsa KS, Tierra M.\"Bringraj\".The Way of Ayurvedic Herbs: The Most Complete Guide to Natural Healing and Health with Traditional Ayurvedic Herbalism (1st ed.).Lotus Press;2008.
  3. Joshi S.Indigenous drugs.Practical Pharmacognosy (1st ed.).Frank Brothers;2009.
  4. Jahan R, Al-Nahain A, Majumder S, et al.Ethnopharmacological significance of Eclipta alba (L.) Hassk.(Asteraceae).Int Sch Res Notices.2014;385969.
  5. Puri HS.\"Bhringraj\".Rasayana: Ayurvedic Herbs for Longevity and Rejuvenation(1st ed).CRC Press; 2003.
  6. 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.
  7. Sharma A, Sharma MS, Mishra A, et. al. A review on Thar plants used in liver diseases.IJRPC.2011;1:224–236.
  8. 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.
  9. Jayathirtha MG, Mishra SH.Preliminary immunomodulatory activities of methanol extracts of Eclipta alba and Centella asiatica.Phytomedicine.2004;11(4):361-5.
  10. 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.
  11. Samaiya PK, Bhattamisra SK, Rao CV, et.al. Antisecretory and antiulcer activities of eclipta alba Linn.in rats. Anc Sci Life. 2012;32(1):S3.
  12. Pal RS, Pal Y, Rai AK, et.al. Synthesis and Evaluation of Herbal Based Hair Dye. The Open Dermatology Journal.2018;12(1):90-98.
  13. Bhalerao S, Verma DR, Teli NC, et.al. Eclipta alba (L.): An Overview. Int. J. Bioassays.2013;2 (11):1443-1447.
  14. Balakrishnan P, Sekar GK, Srinivasan P, et.al. Distinctive Pharmacological Activities Of Eclipta alba and It’s Coumestan Wedelolactone.IAJPS.2018; 5(4):2996-3002.
  15. Rajan C, Rawal, Gandhi P, et.al Clinical Evaluation of Hairbac tablet and oil in the management of Diffuse Hair loss: An open clinical study. Int.J.Res.Ayurveda Pharm.2013;4(4):564-569.
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.

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