Bhringraj Oil

Bhringraj Extract

Scientific name: Eclipta Alba, Ayurveda name: Bhringraj 

A quintessential Ayurveda herb, Bhringraj is commonly known as ‘false daisy’. This herb is used in various medicated oils and for treating hair and skin-related problems. Apart from that, Bhringraj is also used to cure liver diseases. Found in moist places across India and in countries like China, Brazil, and Thailand, the entire plant is used to make Ayurveda oils and medicines. 

According to the scriptures of Raja Nighantu, there are three types of Bhringaraj:

• Shweta Bhringaraj – plants with white flowers 
• Peet Bhringaraj – plants with yellow flowers 
• Neel Bhringaraj – plants with blue flowers

The most common ones are Shweta Bhringaraj and Peet Bhringraj. 

Benefits of using Bhringraj:

• Consuming Bhringraj helps balance kapha and vata dosha because the herb is light and bitter. 
• Bhringraj is said to possess a quality named amanut, referring to its ability to prevent indigestion-related problems. 
• This herb has a quality termed as rasayani because consuming this herb aids relaxation and rejuvenation, providing relief from sleep-related disorders. 
• One of the most significant benefits of Bhringraj is its anti-inflammation properties. Owing to this quality, consuming bhringraj helps prevent swelling, redness, and pain in joints. 
• Akshirogahrut is another quality attributed to this herb. This refers to the ability of Bhringraj to prevent and cure eye infections. 
• One of the most beneficial qualities of this herb is defined as vishaghna. This refers to the detoxifying attributes of the herb and regular consumption results in the purification of one’s blood.
• Apart from medicinal qualities, Bhringraj has benefits for hair and skin as well. Infusing this herb with base oils and massaging it onto one’s hair improves its health and delays greying. 

How can Bhringraj be used?

The herb can be consumed in the form of extracts/juices, powders, and capsules. The extract must be diluted with water and a maximum of 10 ml can be consumed every day. While drinking this concoction, it is advisable to eat light, preferably a diet of rice and milk, for better results. 

If the powder or capsule is consumed, a maximum of 2 gm every day is suitable. This must be broken into two or three doses throughout the day, but it is advised to consult an Ayurveda physician before consuming it. The powder can be mixed with honey or water for ease of consumption.

Bhringraj oil is also a popular way of using this product as it provides various benefits for hair, including preventing hair fall, dandruff, unhealthy hair, and premature greying. The herb is often infused into carrier oils and applied onto the scalp and hair before it is washed off. 

Side effects:

There are no major side effects if one is not allergic to the herb. However, pregnant, and lactating women, must consult their physicians before consuming it. If one consumes more than the prescribed dose, they might experience swelling on their feet and/or mouth. 

If a person is consuming allopathic medicines and wishes to take Bhringraj, it is advisable to consult one’s physician before its consumption.