Most of the people have already heard of Bhringraj many times, either from their grandmother’s hair care remedies or the hero ingredient of many natural shampoos, hair conditioners, and oils.
But today, we will delve into a deeper understanding of Bhringraj and discuss every aspect related to it. Starting with basic information such as identifying the Bhringraj Plant, its source, and other names to advanced knowledge such as its uses, benefits, possible side effects, and precautions, we will brief out everything related to it.
What is Bhringraj?
Bhringraj is a therapeutic herb widely used in traditional Indian medicinal systems like Ayurveda. But now, even Western treatments have incorporated it as their prime ingredient.
The herb exhibits powerful and magical results when it comes to hair care. Apart from hair, Bhringraj is also valued for supporting liver health and improving overall wellness. What makes it special is that it works gently and naturally, without harsh side effects. In fact, it is one of those old herbal remedies that still holds its place in modern routine.
- Bhringraj Scientific Name or Botanical Name = Eclipta prostrata or Eclipta alba
- In Sanskrit = Kesharaja means King of Hair
- Famous Names = Ruler of Hair or False Daisy
- Mainly Reputed for = Nourishing and boosting hair health
What is the source of Bhringraj?
If we talk about the source of Bhringraj, then it comes from a small herbaceous plant that usually grows in warm and moist climates. In India, you can find this plant easily, especially in areas where there is plenty of water, such as riverbanks, fields, and sometimes it may also grow on the roadside.
The plant of Bhringraj belongs to the sunflower family and, just like the other family members (plant species), it also has beautiful flowers, mainly of white colour.
Using bhringraj leaves, many products, including oils, powders, juices, etc., are prepared that are used for several health benefits, mainly for hair. Although bhringraj dry leaves are beneficial. But farmers and herbal practitioners prefer fresh ones, as the benefits are maximum at that stage.
How to identify the Bhringraj plant?
Well, identifying the bhringraj plant is not a tough nut to crack. If you know what this plant looks like, then it becomes quite easy.
The leaves of the bringraj plant are long, narrow, and feel slightly rough when touched. They are dark green in color and grow opposite each other on the stem. What adds to the appearance of the plant are its small white flowers that look like tiny buttons placed beautifully in the centre.
If we talk about the stem, then it is soft, green, and sometimes slightly reddish. As mentioned earlier, this plant is quite common, and you may find it very easily near watery areas. If you crush the leaves of this plant, they may release a light herbal smell too.
Beneficial properties of Bhringraj
Many individuals believe that Bhringraj benefits are confined to hair only. But in reality, the scenario is quite different. In fact, bhringraj contains many such healing traits and properties that can help uplift your health and overall wellness. These include:
- Hepatoprotective
- Anti-inflammatory
- Antimicrobial
- Anti-fungal
- Antioxidant
- Analgesic
- Rejuvenative
Effect on Doshas
Bhringraj holds the power to influence all three doshas, namely Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. It is most effective for balancing aggravated Pitta through its sheetal (cooling) properties. Additionally, it is also slightly snigdha (unctuous), which further helps to calm dry, rough Vata. However, excessive usage of bhringraj can aggravate kapha in the body with its heavy and moist qualities.
So, we can conclude that moderation is the key if you want to use bhringraj for tridosha balance. Excessive intake of it can make your existing condition even worse.
Bhringraj Formulations:
Depending upon the purpose of the usage, bhringraj is used in many possible forms and formulations. Some people prefer using bhringraj powder, a few in paste form, but the most common and famous form is Bhringraj oil.
1. Bhringraj churna:
Bhringraj powder or churna is prepared using fresh bhringraj leaves. Firstly, these leaves are properly washed and then dried in the sunlight. After that, using a grinder, a fine powder is prepared, the consumption of which helps to fight off several health concerns.
Generally, it is advised to take 1-3 grams of bhringraj powder, either with lukewarm water, milk, or honey. The best time to have it would be after having your meal, as it will support your digestion and overall vitality.
2. Bhringraj Lepa:
That’s one of the Ayurvedic ways through which the benefits of bhringraj are derived, mainly for the skin. Mixing bhringraj powder with water or any other suitable liquid, a fine and thick paste is prepared, which is applied directly on the skin.
Being calming and soothing by nature, the paste works as a marvellous natural remedy for treating skin conditions, including wounds, acne, boils, pimples, allergies, cracked heels, cuts, and inflammation.
3. Bhringraj taila:
The bhringraj in the oil form is one of the most commonly used formulations, especially when it comes to hair care. A massage for about 5-10 minutes with Bhringraj hair oil helps to improve blood circulation and nourish hair roots.
↓ Know How to make Bhringraj Oil at Home ↓
- To make bhringraj oil for hair growth, you may need bhringraj plant that contains all the leaves, stems, and as well as the roots.
- Wash them properly and grind them using a grinding stone (silbatta).
- While you are crushing and making a paste, you may also add fenugreek seeds and a few pieces of onion, optionally.
- Once you have a thick paste, take it out and add it to a pan.
- Now, add a small cup of virgin coconut oil to this pan and boil the mixture together.
- After 15-20 minutes, turn off the flame and let the mixture cool down.
- Once it has cooled down, set aside the residue and, using a strainer, extract the oil.
- Your homemade bhringraj oil is ready to use.
4. Bhringraj kwath:
One Ayurvedic way to use Bhringraj is to make a kaadha or kwath of it. This herbal decoction is an amazing remedy for healing liver-related problems and boosting metabolism.
To make this herbal drink, firstly take a handful of fresh, properly washed bhringraj leaves and add them to 2 cups of boiling water. Now, boil it until the water reduces to 1 cup. Your kaadha is ready. Sip it when it is lukewarm. For better taste, you may also add 1 spoon of honey to it.
5. Bhringraj capsules/tablets:
Well, if you want to avail of bhringraj benefits, but feel it is difficult to try remedies at home. Then, you can also opt for market-based bhringraj capsules or tablets.
Generally, 1-2 capsules after meals are advised for individuals. However, the actual dosage may vary from one person to another depending upon his/her medical condition and the purpose of consumption.
Bhringraj Benefits for Hair:
Bhringraj is helpful for many health conditions. But, for centuries, it has been widely used for hair-related conditions and boosting hair health. No matter whether you are using bhringraj oil, shampoo, or paste, it will surely benefit your hair.
1. Supports Hair Growth:
In Ayurveda, bhringraj is rightly said to be the “King of hair” due to its health-benefiting properties. The daily usage of bhringraj oil benefits your hair by promoting hair growth through blood circulation to your scalp.
Additionally, it is also helpful for better nutrient delivery to hair follicles and root-based strengthening.
2. Treats Dandruff:
Well, if you are dealing with dandruff and want to treat it naturally, then bhringraj can be a good option available out there.
The anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, and anti-fungal properties soothe your scalp, kill the fungus, and prevent the buildup of further flakes, causing dandruff.
3. Reduces Premature Greying:
Bhringraj has also been shown to boost melanin production, which is vital for maintaining natural colour and reducing oxidative stress on hair cells.
Besides preventing premature greying of the hair, it contains many flavonoids and alkaloids that increase blood circulation to the scalp and reduce hair loss.
4. Nourishes the Scalp:
Use of Bhringraj has also been linked to improved scalp health. Through widening blood vessels, Bhringraj improves the flow of blood to your hair roots, which eventually acts as a nutrient-dense food for your hair follicles.
As a result, your hair becomes strong, and your scalp remains nourished and dryness-free.
5. Prevent Hairfall and Strengthen Hair Roots:
While discussing bhringraj oil benefits for hair, we cannot skip mentioning how powerful this herb can be when it comes to preventing hair fall. By stimulating dormant hair follicles, it reduces hair breakage and hair thinning.
Besides not just preventing hair fall, it also encourages new and thicker hair growth, thereby acting as a preventive as well as curative hair care tonic.
6. Enhances Shine and Luster:
Bhringraj is a powerhouse of nutrients like iron, magnesium, and vitamin E, which together work as a natural conditioner for your hair.
Day by day, your hair will start to appear shinier, less rough, and stronger, healthier.
7. No Harm:
Hair care products available in the market these days are full of chemicals, which, instead of helping, may harm your hair.
But bhringraj, being a natural hair care partner, can help you a lot in this case, as it will not harm your hair in any way.
Not just Hair, but Helpful for the Whole Body:
Don’t come to the conclusion that bhringraj benefits are confined to just hair. In fact, if used accurately and as per the guidance of an expert, bhringraj can also be highly advantageous for your skin, digestive system, mental health, and overall wellness.
1. Liver Protection:
Bhringraj is highly effective when it comes to treat liver related problems such as fatty liver, jaundice, or liver damage. The powerful hepatoprotective compounds present in bhringraj detoxify the liver and protect it from the possible damage caused by free radicals.
2. Skin Care:
If you are experiencing skin issues such as acne, blemishes, fine lines, pimples, hyperpigmentation, or eczema, then using bringraj paste on the skin can be a natural way to attain relief. The anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties will surely soothe and hydrate your skin and prevent existing skin problems.
3. Digestive Well-Being:
For uplifting your overall digestive health, you may add bhringraj to your routine. As per studies, it is good for many digestive issues, such as fatty liver, constipation, IBS, and so on.
4. Overall Wellness:
Last but not least, bhringraj is also considered good for promoting sound sleep, strengthening the immune system, and managing blood pressure and high cholesterol levels.
Side Effects of Bhringraj
After reading innumerable benefits of bhringraj, don’t conclude too soon, assuming that bhringraj is beneficial for every person and under every condition. But that’s not it.
The reality is that even bhringraj can lead to certain side effects, and sometimes even severe ones, when you are not taking it in the right manner or dosage. Below are some of the possible Bhringraj side effects:
- Skin issues such as rashes, itching, inflammation, or a burning sensation.
- Digestive problems, including nausea, vomiting, abdominal discomfort, gas, acidity, heartburn, or stomachache.
- Scalp issues like itching, irritation, clogged pores, or excessive oil.
- A significant decline in blood glucose levels and excessive body heat.
When and who should avoid Bhringraj?
There are some specified health conditions during which it is advised either to avoid bhringraj or to reduce its dosage, whether your healthcare expert or doctor says. It mainly involves:
1. Pregnant Ladies:
The experts suggest avoiding bhringraj for ladies who are expecting. A high dosage of bhringraj may sometimes be dangerous for both the mother and the developing fetus.
2. Breastfeeding Mothers:
Ladies who have recently given birth and are breastfeeding are required to avoid bhringraj as the studies are limited to prove that it is safe for the breastfeeding mothers and infants.
3. Allergy Patients:
If you have an allergy to bhringraj or you experience symptoms like acne, rashes, hives, burning sensation, itchy eyes, digestive issues, fatigue, or so on, then you should also avoid using bhringraj.
4. Patients with certain Health Conditions:
Those who are dealing with diabetes, blood pressure, or cardiovascular problems and are taking any kind of medicines, diuretics, or blood thinners should also not use bhringraj as it may interfere with their current medication.
Takeaway
At the end of the day, we can finally say that bhringraj is a lifesaver for all those who are dealing with any kind of hair concerns, including dry hair, hair fall, dandruff, rashes, itchiness, or so on. In fact, not just the hair, but it can be helpful for many other health conditions too, but only if used appropriately as per the advised manner and dosage.
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