Bhringraj

Eclipta prostrata, or bhringraj in Ayurveda, is a small flowering plant that develops in pan-tropical countries such as India, China, Thailand, and Brazil. The plant is popularly used in folk medicine, especially Ayurveda, to balance body doshas, particularly vata and kapha.

In Ayurveda, bhringraj is traditionally utilized to fight against some significant problems like premature greying, thinning, and scalp problems. Bhringraj is nutrient-laden: vitamin E, iron, and calcium contribute majorly to hair and general health. Besides this, bhringraj is used in liver, digestive, respiratory, and skin conditions. Being an effective product, it has been widely used in hair oils, powders, and supplements in general.

• Botanical Name: Eclipta prostrata
• Sanskrit: Bhringaraja, Kesharaja
• Hindi: Bhringraj
• English: False daisy

Naturally, bhringraj thrives in tropical and subtropical moist and humid regions. It is most commonly found along riverbanks in marshy areas of India, China, Thailand, and Brazil. The herb is ethically sourced by the company with concern for its potency.

Source of Bhringraj

Bhringraj grows in nature in the tropical and subtropical regions of the world, generally in countries like India, China, Thailand, and Brazil, on lands characterized by rich, wet soil at the bottom of marshes or along water streams, commonly in states like Kerala, West Bengal, and Andhra Pradesh. Organic farming and wildcrafting are common practices due to the ethical sourcing of Bhringraj using sustainable sourcing practices. These methods protect this important Ayurvedic herb and its ecosystem for perpetuity. As Bhringraj gains popularity in many countries due to its effects on hair, organic and ethically sourced bhringraj contributes to helping small farmers and caters to the important values of the Ayurvedic tradition.
 

How is Bhringraj Oil Made?

The leaves from the bhringraj plant are plucked, dried, and ground into a fine powder, which then goes into teas, pastes, or hair treatment formulations. Leaves and other hair care herbs are boiled in a carrier such as coconut or sesame oil to make bhringraj oil; the potent nutrients get transferred to the oil in that process. The oil is then filtered and used for hair care.

The following are the ingredients in bhringraj preparations to support hair health:

• Bhringraj Leaves: These are the primary ingredients in most preparations and are highly promising regarding efficacy regarding hair and scalp nourishment, along with maintaining the liver in a healthy condition. Essential nutrients present in leaves and the compound ecliptine are responsible for promoting rejuvenation.
• Other Herbs: Other herbs, including Amla or Indian Gooseberry, added to enhance the formulation of the product promote Vitamin C and antioxidants for strengthening your hair, reducing greying, and increasing vitality.
• Sesame or Coconut Oil: Most Bhringaraj oil formulations are based on one of these oils. They help in deeper penetration and support the scalp with extra moisturizing and nourishment.
• Brahmi: It is an active tranquiliser, and this herb can also be incorporated into some formulations with bhringaraj owing to the diversified advantageous effects related to stress, thus reinforcing the benefits of the product in hair and mental health.
• Essential Oils: Rosemary or Lavender essential oil is added to enhance the fragrance and further stimulate and relax the scalp.

Bhringraj has many health benefits, including:

• Antioxidant Properties: Help fight oxidative stress to prevent cell damage.
• Anti-inflammatory: Aids reduces inflammation in the body and is thus effective in all disorders related to the skin and scalp.
• Hepato-protective: As it supports the liver detoxification process, it helps protect the liver.
• Hair Growth Stimulant: Promotes healthy hair growth and prevents hair loss.

Bhringraj comes in various forms, depending on how one wants to use it:

• Bhringraj Oil: Traditionally used for scalp nourishment and hair growth. It strengthens hair follicles, prevents hair loss, and improves scalp health.
• Bhringraj Powder: Used as an edible and external paste. It helps manage hair problems and supports skin health and overall vitality.
• Bhringraj Capsules/Tablets: Primarily taken for liver health and digestion and to improve metabolic function. These are convenient options for daily health support.
• Bhringraj Juice/Extract: This is mainly used for liver detoxification as a whole-system tonic. It supports detox processes and enhances energy levels and overall well-being.

1. Encourages Hair Growth

 Bhringraj improves blood circulation to the scalp, ensuring proper nutrition for hair follicles, encouraging healthy hair growth, and preventing hair loss. Its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties reduce dandruff and soothe the scalp.

2. Remedy for Premature Greying 

Bhringraj helps prevent premature greying by enhancing melanin production and maintaining hair's natural colour. The antioxidants in Bhringraj help to combat oxidative stress that leads to early greying.

3. Improves Liver Function

 Bhringraj is known for its hepatoprotective properties. It promotes liver detoxification, supports bile production, and helps in treating liver disorders such as jaundice and hepatitis.

4. Relieves Digestive Problems 

The herb stimulates digestive enzymes and bile production, aiding digestion and relieving indigestion, bloating, and constipation. Its anti-inflammatory properties also soothe the gastrointestinal tract.

5. Enhances Mental Functions

 Bhringraj calms the nervous system, reducing stress and improving mental clarity. It is also beneficial for sleep disorders, helping to promote restful sleep.

6. Supports Healthy Skin

 Bhringraj’s anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties help treat skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis. It also promotes skin detoxification, which leads to clearer and healthier skin.

7. Boosts Immunity

 With its immunomodulatory, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory effects, Bhringraj strengthens the immune system, helping the body fight infections and improve overall resilience.

8. Eye health

Ayurveda regards bhringaraj as chakshushya (promotes eye health), which is beneficial for improving eyesight.

1. Patients with Heart Disease: Bhringraj may lower blood pressure, so individuals with heart conditions or those on heart medications should consult a healthcare provider before using it.
2. Allergic reactions: People with hypersensitive skin should exercise caution while using Bhringraj. One of the possible side effects is eye irritation when Bhringraj is in contact with the eye. Rinsing thoroughly with cold water is recommended. 
3. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should avoid Bhringraj unless advised by a doctor. It is also recommended to avoid alcohol when using Bhringraj due to its potential liver impact.

1. For Hair Growth Apply warm Bhringraj oil directly to the scalp and massage gently. Leave it on for at least 30 minutes or overnight before washing it off.
2. As a Hair Mask Mix Bhringraj powder with water or curd to create a paste, apply it to your scalp and hair, leave it for 20-30 minutes, and then rinse.
3. Herbal Rinse Boil Bhringraj leaves or powder in water, cool, strain, and use as a final rinse after shampooing.

Explore the various uses of Bhringraj for health and well-being in multiple forms. The dosage forms below are always recommended to be employed within the described manner for maximum benefit and to avoid any probable issues.

• Powder: Take 1-2 teaspoons per day. Dissolve with water and honey or add it to smoothies for general health benefits.
• Oil: Apply directly to the scalp for nourishment, hair growth promotion, and dandruff prevention.
• Capsules/Tablets: Take 1-2 capsules/tablets daily; this will promote good liver health and digestion.
• Fresh juice: 1 to 2 teaspoons with water or other adjuvants twice daily.

Bhringraj may interact with liver-related medications or anticoagulants. It can alter the metabolism of these drugs, potentially reducing their effectiveness or increasing side effects. Always consult with a healthcare provider before combining Bhringraj with any medications.

• The miracle herb of Ayurveda helps restore hair, skin, liver, digestion, and overall health.
• It could be used to cure the health of your hair, improve your immune system, or even just general health. Reintroduce bhringraj into your health regime using oils, powders, or capsule form. Therefore, you benefit by using the ancient herb and increasing your vitality with health improvement.
• Like any other herbal supplement, bhringraj is best done responsibly, with proper guidance from a healthcare provider, to ensure its safety and effectiveness. Care must be taken for individuals with pre-existing medical conditions, those on medications, or pregnant and breastfeeding women. Additionally, it’s essential to adhere to recommended dosages and avoid prolonged or excessive use to minimize the risk of side effects and interactions.