BHRINGRAJ
Article by Kaniz F. Shah
Botanical Name: | Eclipta Alba |
English Name: | False Daisy |
Hindi Name: | Bhringraj / Keshraj |
Popular Name(s): | Babri, Galagara, Gunta-kalagara, Kaikeshi, Karisha-langanni, Karisirang-kanni, Kesharaji, Kesuri, Kesuria, Kesutti, Maka, Mochkand |
Kingdom: | Plantae |
Phylum/Division: | Magnoliophyta |
Class: | Magnoliopsida |
Order: | Asterales |
Family: | Asteraceae |
Genus: | Eclipta L. |
Species: | Eclipta Prostrata |
Parts Used: | Herb, roots, leaves |
Habitat: | Throughout India Southwestern America |
Planting: | |
Height: | |
Taste: | Bitter, Pungent, Sweet |
Odor: | Asterales |
Effect / Energy: | Cooling |
Extraction method: | |
Oil blends with: | |
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Nutrients:
Properties:
DESCRIPTION:
Bhringraj is a creeping plant with cylindrical, grayish roots and small white flowers. It grows 3” tall in moist places as a weed in warm temperate to tropical areas worldwide. It is bitter, hot, sharp, and dry in taste and is widely spread throughout India, China, Thailand, and Brazil.
Bhringraj is rich in protein and is commonly used in Ayurvedic medicine because of its antioxidant, antiviral, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and healing properties for skin allergies. It has been used to maintain and rejuvenate hair, teeth, bones, memory, sight, and hearing. The herb also helps relieve headaches when it is mixed with a little oil and applied to the head. There are many health benefits of bhringraj in Ayurvedic medicine for issues like urinary tract infections, kidney & liver problems and more!
Hair Benefits:
The herb is best known for its miraculous benefits as a hair tonic for healthy hair. It is said to help make hair dark, dense and lustrous. Bhringraj powder can be mixed in water with herbs like Henna, Amla, Shikakai and Tulsi and can be applied on the hair in the form of a paste. In India it has long been used to help prevent hair loss and premature greying, to encourage hair growth and improve overall hair health.
According to Ayurvedic medicine, Bhringraj powder can help to purify blood and resolve many skin diseases or abnormalities including wound healing. Whether ingested or applied directly to the skin, it is believed that the use of Bhringraj powder can improve the complexion, making it appear both younger and healthier.
Bhringraj Oil:
Bhringraj oil easily penetrates in the scalp and has been known to be used in promotion of hair strength, hair growth. Regular use of this oil helps restore the natural texture of hair and adds luster, volume and color. It also benefits those who suffer from dandruff, premature balding, premature greying and dryness of the scalp. It nourishes the scalp generously and prevents split ends. The oil has anti-aging properties and can be used as a facial oil to moisturize the skin and leave it soft and young looking.
WARNING:
This article is for informational purpose only. Bhringraj is not a treatment for any disease or condition. It is generally safe when used on the skin or hair, but to ensure safety, it is best to do an allergy test. Consult your doctor before using for medical purposes.
Bibliography:
- Book “The Herb Bible” by Jennie Harding
- Book “Vegetable Herb and Fruit” by Laurel Glen
- Book “ Natural Home Remedies” by Penelope Ody