Introduction:

Bhringraj (Eclipta Prostrata) or (Eclipta Alba), popularly known as ‘false daisy’ is a traditional wonder herb that is hugely recommended for growing long, silky and strong hair. It is a common weed found in farming areas and in moist places. The herb Bhringraj is found to grow wild in a variety of soil viz. sandy soil, clay and very commonly on damp wastelands, low water logged areas, roadsides, paddy and wheat fields, preferably in a warm climate. This herb is also known as ‘Bhangara’, ‘Bhangaro’, ‘Kesh Ranjan’ and ‘Keshraj’. Ayurveda has named it ‘Prakriti ka Khajana’, the treasure of nature. It is found all over India, Brazil, China and Thailand. This plant has two varieties, identified by the colour of flowers, white and yellow. The leaves of the herb taste bitter, sharp, pungent, dry and hot. It has high reputation in traditional medicine as a medicine which enhances hair growth and colour. Roots, seeds, seed oil or the whole plant is used in balancing ‘Kapha&Pitta-doshas’, due to its hot potency. In some parts of Brazil and China, the leaves of the herb are used as anti-venom to treat snake bites. This herb is being used as hair care and skin care since centuries.

Medicinal Qualities:

According to Ayurvedic studies Bhringraj has the following medicinal qualities:

*Rasa (taste)- Katu (pungent), Tikta (bitter)

*Guna (qualities)- Rooksha (dryness), Laghu (light to digest)

*Veerya (potency)- Ushna (hot)

*Vipaka (digestion)- Katu (undergoes pungent taste conversion after digestion)

*Action- Kesya (hair), Twachya (skin), Krimighna (worms), Swasahara (respiration), Netrya (eyes).

Major Chemical Constituents:

The major chemical constituents of Bhringraj plant are wedololactone, dimethylwedololactone, beta-amyrin, luteolin-7-0 glucoside, hentriacontanol, heptacosanol and stigmasterol. These chemicals induce many medicinal values in the herb to make it a complete medical aid for many health issues.

Uses:

Ayurveda calls Bhringraj the ‘treasure of nature’ and suggests it as the remedy of so many health problems.

*One of the important properties of Bhringraj is its ability to rejuvenate hair and thus used as a herb in hair care. The herbal oil made from Bhringraj seeds treats early graying of hair, hair fall, baldness and slow growth of hair. Bhringraj oil promotes deep sleep.

*Different parts of the plant are used in treating teeth, bones, eyes, ears, memory related ailments and skin diseases.

*The powdered root of the herb is used in the treatment of hepatitis and enlarged spleen.

*The herbal oil made from Bhringraj seeds relieves headache and burning urine sensations.

*This herb has capability to regulate metabolic functioning of liver and kidney.

*Bhringraj has excellent properties to treat gynecological problems. It prevents miscarriages, relieve post delivery uterine pain and reduces uterine bleeding.

*Bhringraj treats piles, urinary tract infections and kills intestinal worms in infants and children.

*Bhringraj has anti-aging properties which helps in improving skin complexion and rejuvenates body.

*Bhringraj extracts or syrups act as a general tonic in case of debility, which improves strength, immunity and fertility.

*Its paste is used in treating elephantiasis, abscess and wound healing’

*Flowers of Bhringraj is suggested to diabetic people and found that two or three flowers daily can maintain the sugar level in the body.

*Bhringraj has been evidenced to have activity against Plasmodium falciparum, which is the causative agent of malaria fever.

Dosage:

A common people can take the following dose, but sick people should consult to their doctor for the dosage.

Fresh Juice- 5 to 10 ml. once in empty stomach,

Powder- 250 mg. to 2 g. per day with warm water.

Side Effects:

Bhringraj is generally considered to be a safe herb and there is no side effect has been recorded so far. However, it is advised to talk to an Ayurvedic doctor before using the herb, who will also determine a safe dosage. Some individuals can develop an allergic response to the use of this herb and must be careful. Pregnant and lactating mothers must be even more careful about the use of the herbal supplement and avoid use unless prescribed.

Conclusion:

Bhringraj is a herb easily found in moist lands, as weeds in agricultural land and roadsides. Ayurveda has given it the status of an important medicinal plant and named it ‘Kesharaj’, means ruler of the hair. It is rich in protein, vitamins and antioxidants, which help protect the body against certain infections.

FAQs:

1.How is Bhringraj used?

Bhringraj is used in various forms including raw herb, powder, oil or capsules.

2.Does Bhringraj really promote hair growth?

Yes, Bhringraj not only promotes hair growth but also cares for the heath of the hair.

3.Are there any side effects of using Bhringraj?

No, Bhringraj is quite safe herb except some allergic effects on few people.

4.Can Bhringraj be used for skin care?

Yes, Bhringraj is very good herb for skin care as it has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

5.Is Bhringraj safe for pregnant women?

Though there is no authentic report of any complications in pregnant women, but it is recommended that pregnant women should consult a health care provider before using it.