Bhringraj

Bhringraj is traditionally referred to as the King of Herbs in Ayurveda because of its long-standing traditional use in hair care. It is described in classical Ayurvedic texts as Keshya, a group of herbs traditionally used to support hair health, and is prepared from the leaves of Eclipta prostrata, a small flowering plant of the daisy family that grows in damp, marshy areas across India, China, Thailand and Brazil.

In Ayurveda, Bhringraj is traditionally used to help balance Vata and Kapha doshas (Jahan et al., 2014). It is classified as Tikta rasa (bitter taste), Ushna virya (hot potency), and is traditionally grouped among Keshya (hair-supporting) and Rasayana (rejuvenative) herbs.

Bhringraj is known by its botanical name and by Sanskrit, regional and English names. Here are the ways it is commonly referred to.

• Botanical name: Eclipta prostrata
• Sanskrit: Bhringaraja, Kesharaja
• Hindi: Bhringraj, Bhangra, Bhangro, Keshraj, Maka
• Tamil: Karisalankani
• Telugu: Gunta galagaraaku
• Bengali: Kesuriya, Bhimra (for yellow varieties)
• Malayalam: Kannunni
• Gujarati: Bhangaro
• Punjabi: Bhangra, Bhangro, Keshraj, Maka
• English: False daisy

Bhringraj is often combined with other herbs and carrier oils in classical Ayurvedic hair care preparations. Here are some it is traditionally paired with.

Bhringraj is traditionally understood, and in some cases has been studied, to have the following actions or properties.

• Antioxidant, associated with helping the body manage oxidative stress (Dudhat et al., 2024)
• Anti-inflammatory, associated with helping reduce skin and scalp inflammation
• Hepatoprotective, traditionally believed to support liver function and bile production (Jahan et al., 2014)
• Calming, traditionally associated with supporting mental clarity and restful sleep (Thakur & Mengi, 2005)
• Antimicrobial, associated with inhibiting microorganisms that may contribute to dandruff

These properties are described in traditional and preliminary laboratory sources rather than large-scale human clinical trials, so they should be read as traditional uses and early-stage research findings, rather than established clinical effects.

Bhringraj may support hair and scalp health, liver function, digestion and general wellbeing. It may also support relaxation and help soothe minor skin irritation. However, human evidence for specific benefits such as hair growth, premature greying or liver support remains limited, so Bhringraj should not replace medical treatment for diagnosed conditions.

1. May Support Hair Growth

Bhringraj is traditionally used to support hair and scalp health, and its traditional anti-inflammatory action is associated with a calmer, less flaky scalp. Evidence for its effect on hair growth in humans is limited.

2. May Help Slow Premature Greying

Bhringraj is traditionally used in hair care for concerns such as premature greying, which is why it is commonly used by people concerned about grey hair. Individual results vary, and it is not a guaranteed way to reverse or prevent grey hair.

3. May Support Liver Function

Bhringraj is traditionally classed as hepatoprotective in Ayurveda and is believed to support normal liver function and bile flow. It is not a treatment for diagnosed liver disease, such as jaundice or hepatitis, which need medical management.

4. May Ease Mild Digestive Discomfort

Bhringraj is traditionally used to support digestion, which may help with mild bloating and irregular digestion. Persistent digestive symptoms need medical assessment rather than self-treatment with a herbal supplement.

5. May Support a Calmer Mind

Bhringraj is traditionally believed to have a calming action on the nervous system, which is why it is used to support relaxation and restful sleep. It is not a treatment for a diagnosed sleep or anxiety disorder.

6. May Support Skin Health

Bhringraj's traditional anti-inflammatory action is associated with soothing minor skin irritation. It provides supportive care only; ongoing skin conditions such as eczema need assessment and treatment from a dermatologist.ye health), which is beneficial for improving eyesight.

Bhringraj is traditionally used in hair and scalp care and in Ayurvedic formulations for liver support. It is commonly applied as hair oil or used as a herbal hair rinse as part of a regular hair-care routine. These uses are mainly based on traditional Ayurvedic practice and should not replace treatment for diagnosed medical conditions.

As a Daily Hair Oil

Bhringraj oil is one of the most widely used Ayurvedic hair oils, massaged into the scalp as part of a regular hair care routine rather than as a treatment for a diagnosed scalp condition.

In Ayurvedic Liver-Support Formulations

Bhringraj is included in some classical Ayurvedic formulations traditionally used to support liver health, taken as part of a wellness routine rather than as a treatment for diagnosed liver disease.

As a Herbal Hair Rinse

Boiled Bhringraj leaves are traditionally used as a final rinse after washing hair, and are traditionally valued as part of hair and scalp care.

• If you have a diagnosed heart condition or take blood pressure medicines, speak to your doctor before taking Bhringraj, as it may affect blood pressure.
• If you have sensitive skin, do a patch test before applying Bhringraj oil or paste, as allergic skin reactions can occur.
• If Bhringraj gets in the eyes, rinse thoroughly with clean water.
• Do not take Bhringraj during pregnancy or while breastfeeding unless a doctor advises it.
• If you drink alcohol regularly, speak to your doctor before taking Bhringraj internally, particularly if you have a liver condition.
• If you have a diagnosed liver condition or take liver medicines, speak to your doctor before taking Bhringraj internally.

Bhringraj is available in several forms. Here is how each is generally used.

Oil, for the Scalp

Warm the oil slightly, apply to the scalp and massage gently. Leave on for at least 30 minutes, or overnight, before washing off.

Powder, as a Hair Mask

Mix the powder with water or curd to form a paste, apply to the scalp and hair, leave for 20 to 30 minutes, then rinse.

Leaves or Powder, as a Hair Rinse

Boil the leaves or powder in water, allow to cool, strain, and use as a final rinse after shampooing.

Powder or Capsules, Taken by Mouth

Mix the powder with water, or swallow the capsule whole with water, at the dose and frequency advised by your doctor or Ayurvedic practitioner.

Dosage should always be personalised by a doctor or Ayurvedic practitioner. The following is general guidance only.

• Children: Bhringraj is not generally recommended for internal use in children without a doctor's supervision. Topical use should also only be undertaken on the advice of a doctor or Ayurvedic practitioner.
• Teenagers: Dosage should be set individually by a doctor or Ayurvedic practitioner, taking age and body weight into account.
• Adults: A commonly advised amount is 1 to 2 teaspoons of powder, or 1 to 2 capsules or tablets, daily, or as directed by a doctor or Ayurvedic practitioner.
• Elderly: Older adults may need a dose adjustment, particularly where liver function is reduced. Dosage should be confirmed by a doctor.

Disclaimer: The dosages above are general guidance only and may vary depending on individual health conditions, age and other factors. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional or Ayurvedic practitioner before starting Bhringraj, and do not exceed the recommended amount without medical supervision.

Bhringraj may cause side effects in some people, particularly if not used as advised. Some people may notice the following.

Allergic Skin Reactions

Itching, rashes or irritation of the scalp can occur, particularly in people with sensitive skin. Always do a patch test before wider use, and stop immediately if irritation occurs.

Oily Scalp or Blocked Pores

Using more oil than needed can leave the scalp overly oily and may contribute to clogged pores. Use a moderate amount and wash out thoroughly.

Stomach Discomfort

Taken internally in large amounts, Bhringraj may cause mild gastrointestinal discomfort. Stop use and speak to a doctor or Ayurvedic practitioner if symptoms persist or worsen.

Bhringraj may interact with certain medicines. Always tell your doctor about everything you are taking.

Blood-Thinning Medicines

Bhringraj may affect blood clotting, which could potentially increase the risk of bleeding with anticoagulant medicines. Anyone taking blood thinners should check with their doctor before taking Bhringraj internally.

Medicines That Affect the Liver

Bhringraj may affect how the liver processes certain medicines, which could alter their effects or side effects. Speak to your doctor before combining Bhringraj with medicines that affect liver function.

Blood Pressure Medicines

As Bhringraj may affect blood pressure, taking it alongside blood pressure medicines could add to that effect (Zafar & Sagar, 2000). Monitor blood pressure and check with your doctor before combining them.

Storage of Bhringraj

Store Bhringraj oil, powder or capsules in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. Keep the container tightly closed after use, and keep it out of reach of children. Do not use the product after the expiry date printed on the pack.

• Bhringraj, also known as the King of Herbs in Ayurveda, is an Ayurvedic herb traditionally used to support hair growth, scalp health and general wellbeing.
• It is also traditionally believed to support liver function, digestion and skin health.
• It is not a treatment for diagnosed liver disease, respiratory conditions, or any other serious medical condition.
• Available as oil, powder, capsules and juice, it should be used at the advised dose and for the recommended duration.
• Avoid it in pregnancy and breastfeeding without medical advice, and use it with caution if you have a heart condition, liver disease, or take blood-thinning medicines. Do a patch test before wider topical use.