Bhringaraj, popularly known as ‘false daisy’ in English is a traditional wonder herb, that is hugely recommended for growing long, silky, and strong hair. Clad by the vernacular names as karisalankani in Tamil, gunta galagaraaku in Telugu, kesuriya in Bengali, kannunni in Malayalam and bhangaro in Gujarati, this herb belongs to the sunflower family and is widely used all over the world for its immense benefits towards hair and overall health.
How To Identify The Bhringaraj Plant?
Bhringaraj is a creeping herb that grows to a height of 3 metres. It has a long stalk and white-coloured flowers which are solitary, winged and about 6 to 8 mm in diameter. The leaves are sessile, lance-shaped and arranged in the opposite orientation. It has distinct cylindrical and grey coloured roots. The herb mostly grows in the moist regions of India, China, Nepal, Thailand, and Brazil.
Bhringaraj is widely mentioned in several ayurvedic scriptures as bhring, markav, angarak, keshraaj, bhringaar, and keshranjan. The Sanskrit scriptures of Raj Nighantu categorises bhringaraj into three types:
Shweta Bhringaraj (possesses white coloured flowers)
Peet Bhringaraj (possesses yellow coloured flowers)
Neel Bhringaraj (possesses blue coloured flowers)
Pharmacological Actions
The umpteen beneficial properties of bhringaraj include Keshranjaka (hair vitalizer), Ruchuvardakam (appetizer), Jathraagni deepaka (stimulates digestive fire), Netrahitkara (treats eye problems), Kapha visha nashaka (helps destroy Kapha doshas and toxins), Deepana (enhances stomach fire), Pachana (helps in digestion), Kusthahara (treats skin disease), Shothahara (reduces inflammation), Raktapitta (treats bleeding disorders), Kasahara (treats cough and cold), Pandunut (treats anaemia), Shiro artinut (treats headache), Chakushya (improves eyesight), Rasayana (anti-ageing) and Jantujit (relieves from worm infestation). Imbued with these potent properties, bhringaraj is extensively used for treating a host of health issues like hair problems, skin and tooth infections, worm infestations, cough, cold, asthma, anaemia, inflammation, leprosy, and other infections.
Effect On Doshas
Shankhpushpi characterizes Katu and Tikta Rasa (pungent and bitter taste). It shows Laghu (light) and Rukshna (dry) gunas, Ushna Virya (hot potency) and Katu Vipaka (pungent metabolic property). It balances the Vata (air) and Kapha (earth and water) doshas and aggravates the Pitta (fire and air) doshas. Also Read: Introduction To Ayurveda: Learn About Vata, Pitta And Kapha Doshas
Phytochemical Constituents
Bhringaraj being a potent hair vitalizer has a host of bioactive constituents including flavonoids and phytochemicals like ecliptic, wedelolactone, coumestans, polypeptides, polyacetylenes, thiophene derivatives, steroids, sterols like stigmasterol, heptacosanole, hentriacontanol, and triterpenes.
Bhringaraj Formulations
Bhringaraj is widely available in the market in various forms like powder or churna, juice or kashayam, juice or asava, oil or tailam. But mostly it is used in the form of oil.
Bhringaraj Oil
It is a classic ayurvedic hair tonic that is extremely beneficial for hair fall, grey hair and dandruff. Apart from benefitting the hair, it is also useful for skin problems, headaches, and mental weakness. Massaging your hair with bhringaraj oil provides a calming effect on the head, increases memory, improves blood circulation on the scalp. It is one of the amazing hair oils that can prevent hair fall and effectively promote hair growth. Although there are several varieties of bhringaraj oil available in the market, this article brings you one of the best formulations in Ayurveda that can bolster immunity and also hair growth as mentioned in Siddha Yoga Sangraha, an ayurvedic organization founded by Swami Muktananda which aims in benefitting the hair and overall health.
How To Make Bhringaraj Oil?
Ingredients:
Herb Juice:
2560 grams - Bhringaraj juice
640 grams - Amla juice (Emblica officinalis)
640 grams - Brahmi juice
Base Oil:
1280 grams - Sesame (Til) Oil
Herb for Paste (Kalka):
10 grams - Haritaki (Terminalia chebula)
10 grams - Bibhitaki (Terminalia bellirica)
10 grams - Amla (Emblica officinalis)
10 grams - Manjistha (Rubia cordifolia)
10 grams - Babchi (Psoralea corylifolia)
10 grams - Red Sandalwood/Chandan (Pterocarpus santalinus)
10 grams - Padmaks (Prunus cerasoides)
10 grams - Nagarmotha (Cyprus rotundus)
10 grams - Kachur (Curcuma zedoaria)
10 grams - Lodhra (Symplocos racemosa)
10 grams - Anantamul (Hemidesmus indicus)
10 grams - Mehndi (Lawsonia inermis)
10 grams - Yashtimadhu (Glycyrrhiza glabra)
10 grams - Jatamansi (Nardostachys jatamansi)
10 grams - Priyangu (Callicarpa macrophylla)
10 grams - Kuth (Saussurea lappa)
10 grams - Mandur
Method:
Extract the juices of the herbs and keep it aside.
Purify the sesame oil.
Prepare the paste or kalka of the herbs by mixing with water or cow’s milk.
Mix all the ingredients, i.e. juices, oil and kalka in a mixing bowl.
Put the vessel over the flame and keep stirring until the herbs mix and only the oil remains.
Remove it from the flame and allow it to cool and settle for a few days.
Store it in a glass container and your bhringaraj oil is ready to be used.
Benefits Of Bhringaraj Oil
Promotes Hair Growth And Cures Baldness
Bhringaraj plays a pivotal role in treating and preventing baldness. It effectively increases blood circulation in the scalp and hair follicles, which in turn enriches the roots by bringing in more nutrients through the blood supply and promote hair growth. Sesame oil nourishes the hair while Ayurveda vouches that regular use of bhringaraj oil provides effective results by activating the hair follicles.
Treats Dandruff And Scalp Itchiness
Various types of dandruff usually occur due to excessive dry scalp, humidity in the air and lack of hygiene and eventually leads to itching and flaking. Bhringaraj oil not only has powerful anti-microbial, anti-bacterial properties but also has a high specific gravity, which allows the oil to penetrate deep inside the scalp and treat dry scalp and itching. Also Read: Home Remedies To Get Rid of Itchy Dandruff
For better results, massage your scalp and hair with bhringaraj oil before going to sleep. Wrap a steamed towel around your scalp to allow the oil to penetrate deep into the sebaceous glands. Leave it on overnight and rub some lemon juice on the scalp before shampooing your hair with the best anti-dandruff shampoo.
Reduces Hair Fall
Bhringaraj oil is the one-stop solution for hair fall. It effectively reduces Vata and Kapha doshas, cools the scalp and reduces the stress levels which are primarily the most predominant causes of hair fall. It provides nourishment to hair follicles, increases blood circulation in the scalp, prevents dryness of scalp and hence reduces hair fall. Also Checkout: 5 Easy Home Remedies To Control Hair Loss - Infographic
Stops Premature Greying Of Hair
The active constituents of bhringaraj hair oil contain haritaki and Jatamansi which are extremely beneficial in maintaining the natural colour of hair and prevent premature greying. Henna prepared with the leaves of bhringaraj is also helpful in dyeing the hair. Regular use of bhringaraj oil plays a key role in slowing reducing grey hairs and preventing further in the future.
Treats Scalp Infections
The goodness of anti-bacterial properties in bhringaraj, make it a prompt solution for treating a variety of scalp infections. Majorly bhringaraj oil is effective in treating different forms of folliculitis, which occurs due to the infection from Staphylococcus aureus and causes inflammation of the hair follicles which ultimately leads to hair fall and balding. It also treats a ringworm infection on the scalp due to Tinea capitis. Regular use of this magical oil reduces inflammation of the hair follicles, scalp tenderness, alleviates scalp itching and increases hair growth.
Worried About Hair Fall And Scalp Infections? Check Out Our Wide Range Of Bhringaraj Products For Promoting Hair Growth
Bhringarajasava
This potent formulation of bhringaraj is extremely effective in increasing appetite, aiding in digestion, and improving body metabolism. It is also helpful in boosting stamina and increasing libido, treating emaciation, cold and cough symptoms and improving the quality and texture of skin and hair.
Ingredients
2460 parts of Bhringaraj decoction (Eclipta alba)
40 parts of Haritaki (Terminalia chebula)
10 parts of Pippali/ Long pepper (Piper nigrum)
10 parts of Jatiphal/ Nutmeg (Myristica fragrans)
10 parts of Lavanga/ Clove (Syzigium aromaticum)
10 parts of Dalchini/ Cinnamon (Cinnamomum zeylanica)
10 parts of Elaichi/ Cardamom (Elettaria cardamomum)
10 parts of Tejpata/ Bay leaf (Cinnamomum tamala)
1000 parts of Gur or Jaggery
Method
Mix the bhringaraj juice in an asava vessel coated with the goodness of cow ghee along with jaggery and haritaki powder.
Allow it ferment for 15 days.
After the fermentation is done, add the other ingredients to it and again keep it aside for 15 more days.
After completion of the 15 days, filter the asava mixture and store it in glass bottles for future use.
How To Use?
The asava formulation can be taken twice a day infused with water after meals.
Bhringaraj Churna
Bhringaraj churna is a finely powdered formulation made using each and every part of the bhringaraj tree i.e. leaves, flowers, roots, and stems. It is extremely beneficial for hair, vision and skin. It helps to purify the blood naturally and improve heart and liver functions.
How To Use?
Bhringaraj churna can be taken two to three times a day before meals. It can be taken alongside either lukewarm water, cow’s ghee, jaggery, mishri or milk.
Bhringaraj Juice
Bhringaraj juice is the decoction obtained from the bhringaraj leaf or flower extract. It improves the appetite and aids in digestion. It is also effective for evading seasonal infection and symptoms of cold and flu.
How To Use?
Bhringaraj juice can be taken two to three times a day before meals. It can be ingested alongside either honey, jaggery, haritaki powder, mishri or milk.
What Is Bhringaraj Good For?
Bhringaraj For Headache And Migraine
Apart from being an excellent product for nourishing hair, bhringaraj is also effective for relieving pain from headaches and migraines. Massage 2 to 3 drops of bhringaraj oil or on your forehead and relax. The soothing properties of this oil reduce the throbbing pain and provide a relaxing effect. Also Read: 6 Simple Ways To Make Your Headache Subside
Bhringaraj For Vision
The potent Chakushya properties of bhringaraj make it extremely beneficial for improving the eyesight. Put 2 drops of bhringaraj oil or juice mixed with water in each of your nostrils in the morning and pull it in slowly to evade nasal congestion and also to improve vision.
Bhringaraj For Skin
The anti-bacterial and anti-microbial properties of bhringaraj play a key role in the case of skin infections. It holds high significance in detoxifying the blood and helping in wound healing. When used topically as a paste of the leaves or juice, it soothes the inflamed skin and treats infections like eczema, boils, pimples, acne, sunburn etc and provides a healthy, radiant and rejuvenated skin. Also Read: Have A Skin Breakout? Try These Natural Cures
Bhringaraj For Liver
The active constituents in bhringaraj protect the liver from harmful chemicals buys removing AMA Doshas or toxins from the body. It also helps regenerate liver cells.
Bhringaraj For Gastro-Intestinal System
Bhringaraj is extremely beneficial for improving the functioning of the gastrointestinal system. The digestive and carminative properties help a person in digestion, absorption, assimilation, and excretion of wastes. It also prevents gastric ulcers, heartburn, abdominal pain, nausea, etc.
Bhringaraj For Heart
Bhringaraj holds high value in treating various heart ailments due to its strong antioxidative nature. It controls high blood pressure, regulates cholesterol, strengthens the heart muscles, prevents lipid build up in the blood vessels, and hence reduces the risk of heart attacks, heart blocks, blood clots, etc. It also plays a key role in reducing triglycerides levels in the blood. Regular consumption of this potent leaf extract with honey in water is extremely helpful in boosting heart health.
Also Read: Top 10 Superfoods For A Healthy Heart
Bhringaraj For Pain
Bhringaraj has powerful analgesic properties that play a key role in relieving pain and inflammation and hence the medicine is widely used for alleviating pain in case of rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis.
Bhringaraj For Immunity
The magical ayurvedic herb holds high value in improving the general stamina and energy level of the body. The active ingredients in bhringaraj reduce weakness and fatigue and improve the vitality of the body. It also improves the function of the adrenal glands which in turn helps in reducing the stress levels.
Bhringaraj For Diabetes
The excellent hypoglycaemic property of bhringaraj plays a significant role in alleviating the blood sugar level of the body. The production of insulin from the pancreatic β-cells becomes active when an individual takes bhringaraj in the form of a formulation. It helps to reduce the breakdown of starch into glucose which in turn leads to low blood glucose levels.
Bhringaraj For Respiratory Problems
Bhringaraj imbued with powerful anti-microbial properties is extremely beneficial in warding off infections, hence it plays a significant role in treating respiratory ailments like cough and cold symptoms, bronchitis, and asthma. The anti-inflammatory properties also help in reducing the inflammation of the bronchi’s and easing the body.
Bhringaraj For Dysentery
Bhringaraj is the ultimate choice of remedy for effectively treating dysentery. In the case of amoebic dysentery, it completely kills the causative agent Entamoeba histolytica, clears its traces from the liver and intestines and also prevents the dormant amoeba to remain inside the digestive system and create further problems. A juice of bhringaraj infused with honey helps clear symptoms of dysentery.
Bhringaraj For Ulcers
Imbued with powerful anti-microbial, anti-inflammatory and anti-ulcer properties, Bhringaraj holds high significance in treating different types of ulcers like stomach ulcers, canker sores or mouth ulcers, peptic ulcer, ulcerative colitis, etc. The bioactive ingredients in this plant not only encourages tissue regeneration but also helps in dressing wounds.
You can apply the juice or paste of bhringaraj leaves directly on the ulcer or make a poultice of the leaves and tie it on the wound for quick healing of the ulcer.
Bhringaraj For Bites And Stings
The antibiotic, pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory properties of bhringaraj make it a quintessential herb for treating scorpion stings, snake bites and even bites or stings from other insects. But one needs to consult a doctor before using any kind of treatment to avoid complications.
Bhringaraj For Cholera
Cholera is an infectious disease that is caused by eating food or drinking water contaminated with the Vibrio cholerae bacterium that exhibits symptoms like severe watery diarrhoea which causes dehydration and can sometimes even lead to death if left untreated. Bhringaraj is extremely beneficial for treating diarrhoea, dysentery and cholera.
2 teaspoon juice of Bhringaraj juice along with a pinch of rock salt in it, can do wonders to treat the symptoms of cholera if consumed twice a day.
Bhringaraj For Memory
Bhringaraj is a traditional remedy to increase the functioning of the brain. The abundance of antioxidants and flavonoids present in it improves the memory capacity, focus, concentration, calmness, alertness of an individual. Being a brain tonic and stimulator, it also improves memory, reasoning, problem-solving, and other cognitive abilities. The neuroprotective elements in the plant prevent loss of memory by increasing mitochondrial activity, thereby prevented Alzheimer's.
Adverse Effects Of Bhringaraj
This traditional herb has no proven side effects but one should always consult an ayurvedic doctor or practitioner before starting to use bhringaraj formulations in case it has any harmful interactions with the medicines the individual is already taking.
In some rare cases, a slightly higher dosage of bhringaraj can lead to stomach troubles or heartburn.
In case, you are about to use the oil, it is suggested to perform a patch test by applying a drop of oil on the skin to record any allergic signs of itching or redness.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are The Components Of Mahabhringraj Oil?
Mahabhringaraj oil is one of the best and most commonly used formulations of Bhringraj oil for promoting hair growth. This oil contains sesame oil as the base oil and Bhringraj extract alongside other powerful herbs including Mulethi, Manjishtha, and Anantamul.
Does Bhringraj Boost Immunity?
Unlike the common notion, the manifold benefits of Bhringraj encompass far beyond hair care. One of the best uses of Bhringraj is to boost overall immunity. The active component of Bhringraj extensively aids in the production of white blood cells which thereby offers protection against infectious diseases and helps you stay healthy and fit.
Dose: Take ¼ - ½ teaspoon of Bhringraj powder along with honey.
Can Bhringraj Supplements Be Taken With Prescription And Non-Prescription Medicines?
Since there is no clear proof of the counter-interactions of Bhringraj with prescription and OTC drugs, it is much safer to consult a doctor before taking Bhringraj in any form.
How To Use Bhringraj Powder For Hair?
Bhringraj powder is extremely beneficial for uplifting hair health. Make a paste of ½ -1 tsp of bhringaraj powder and coconut oil. Apply this paste all over the scalp and hair follicles. Tie a shower cap and keep the paste for 1- 2 hours and shampoo afterwards. Apply this hair pack thrice a week to combat hair fall and curtail premature greying of hair.
How To Consume Bhringraj Powder For Hair Growth?
Take ¼ - ½ tsp of Bhringraj powder with water twice a day after having a light meal. Continue taking Bhringraj powder supplement for at least 1 – 2 months for observing positive results. The hair growth increases considerably, with much lesser early greying and hair fall.
What Is The Benefit Of Bhringraj Powder?
Bhringaraj is often called the wonder hair herb due to its reputed benefits for promoting hair growth and preventing hair loss. It can strengthen hair follicles and nourish the scalp
Can Bhringraj Be Used Daily?
Yes, bhringraj can be used daily, typically in the form of powder or oil, depending on your needs. For hair care, it is often applied regularly for best results.
Is Bhringraj Hot Or Cold For The Body?
In Ayurvedic medicine, Bhringraj is generally considered to have a cooling effect on the body. It is believed to help balance excess heat and inflammation, making it suitable for individuals with a pitta dosha or those experiencing symptoms associated with heat.
Does Bhringraj Have Side Effects?
Bhringraj is generally considered safe for most people but sometimes it can have potential side effects that include mild digestive issues or allergic reactions in some individuals. It's advisable to consult a healthcare professional.
Does Bhringraj Reverse Grey Hair?
Bhringraj is traditionally believed to help prevent premature graying and may improve overall hair health, potentially slowing the process of greying.
Can Bhringraj Help To Regrow Hair?
Bhringraj is often used in traditional medicine to promote hair health and may support hair growth by improving circulation and nourishing the scalp. The results can vary, and it’s best to combine it with other hair care practices and consult a healthcare provider for personalized advice.
Is Bhringraj Good For Skin?
Yes, Bhringraj is often considered beneficial for skin health. Its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties may help improve complexion, reduce inflammation, address conditions like acne and eczema, and contribute to overall skin radiance
Conclusion
Widely advocated as a potent ‘hair nourishing’ herb, Bhringaraj effectively treats and cures a wide range of ailments including hair and skin problems, liver disorders, heart ailments, tummy issues, respiratory problems, diabetes, arthritis, pain, and inflammation. As this medicine does not have any reported adverse effects, hence with a proper doctor’s consultation, you can consume this formulation and reap its benefits.
(This article is reviewed by Kalyani Krishna Chief Content Editor)
Author Profile
Soumita Basu:
Soumita Basu holds a Bachelor's Degree in Pharmacy and is keenly interested in Ayurveda, home remedies, yoga, fitness, diagnostics, and beauty. With nearly 6 years of experience, she produces evidence-based health content, including articles, videos, and infographics, to provide valuable insights to her audience.
References:
- Ethnopharmacological Significance of Eclipta alba (L.) Hassk. (Asteraceae)
Rownak Jahan, Abdullah Al-Nahain, Snehali Majumder, and Mohammed Rahmatullah
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4897414/
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8615741/
