Written By:
Pragati Ekamalli BPharm
Medically Reviewed and Fact-Checked By:
Ayurvedacharya Dr. Gaurav Pathare, BAMS
Bhringraj, botanically known as Eclipta Alba, is a revered herb in traditional Ayurvedic medicine and is also called the “King of Hair” due to its exceptionally beneficial effects on hair health. Commonly called “false daisy,” bhringraj has small white flowers and blooms in moist environments, especially across India, Thailand, and Brazil. For centuries, bhringraj has played a central role in the Indian Ayurvedic system in hair health due to its nourishing, rejuvenating, and restorative properties. The Sanskrit name Kesharaja directly translates to “Ruler of Hair.”
In this article, we’ll explore Bhringraj’s unmatched benefits for hair, from stimulating growth and reversing hair fall to delaying premature greying and soothing scalp issues. Whether you’re dealing with thinning hair, dandruff, or just want your hair to look its best, Bhringraj offers natural, science-backed solutions.
What makes Bhringraj known as the King of Hair?
Bhringraj is rich in key phytochemicals like flavonoids, alkaloids, and coumestans, along with vitamins and minerals essential for hair vitality. It’s nourishing action works at the follicular level, improving blood circulation to the scalp, encouraging new hair growth, and strengthening existing strands.
Let’s explore the different ways Bhringraj promotes optimal hair health:
Top Ayurvedic Benefits of Bhringraj
Bhringraj Oil for Hair Growth and Scalp Health
Bhringraj oil, derived by boiling its leaves with a carrier oil such as coconut or sesame, is best known for revitalizing hair follicles. Rich in flavonoids, alkaloids, and essential nutrients, it strengthens hair at the roots, prevents breakage, and combats hair fall. The oil’s antifungal and antibacterial actions also make it effective in treating dandruff and scalp irritation.
Usage Tip: Warm the oil slightly before application. Massage gently into the scalp in circular motions for 10–15 minutes. Leave it overnight or for at least 1–2 hours before washing with a mild herbal shampoo. Use two to three times weekly.
Pro Tip: Combine with Amla oil to further enhance hair growth and scalp nourishment.
Bhringraj Powder for Hair Fall and Graying
A homemade DIY hair pack with Bhringraj powder can treat excessive hair fall and early greying. Mix two tablespoons of Bhringraj powder with three tablespoons of coconut oil, yogurt, or aloe Vera gel. Add a tablespoon of honey for extra hydration if needed. It deeply conditions the scalp, nourishes hair roots, reduces split ends and dullness, and revives shine and softness.
Apply the smooth paste to your scalp and hair, leave it on for 30–45 minutes, and then rinse with a mild Ayurvedic shampoo. For natural darkening, blend with indigo powder.
Bhringraj as an Ayurvedic Tonic for Stronger Hair from Within
Apart from its external use, Bhringraj can be consumed (with professional guidance) to nourish hair internally. In Ayurveda, Bhringraj is classified as a “Rasayana” a rejuvenative herb. It’s detoxifying and rejuvenating effects on the liver linked to skin and hair health in Ayurveda help which improve quality of hair from the inside out.
Supplement Options
- Bhringraj Capsules: Support scalp circulation and hair growth
- Bhringraj Tea or Powder: Acts as a Rasayana (rejuvenator) to reduce stress and hormonal imbalances affecting hair
How to Take
¼ teaspoon Bhringraj powder with honey or warm water, once daily on an empty stomach (after consulting an Ayurvedic practitioner)
4. Scalp Conditions Treated by Bhringraj
Soothes Itchy, Inflamed Scalp
Due to bhringraj’s anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, bhringraj oil helps relieve scalp issues like psoriasis, eczema, and dandruff.
Boosts Scalp Circulation
Massaging the scalp at the root of the hairs with Bhringraj improves microcirculation, delivering more oxygen and nutrients to hair roots for growth and thickness.
5. Bhringraj for Premature Graying and Hair Pigmentation
Bhringraj’s antioxidant activity fights oxidative stress that leads to graying. It also stimulates melanin production, the pigment responsible for hair color
For natural hair darkening, combine Bhringraj with Indigo powder or Brahmi, use regularly as a hair pack or oil massage, and avoid chemical shampoos and heat-based styling that strip natural oils
6. Enhances Hair Texture
Bhringraj revitalize your hair, restoring its natural shine and leaving it soft, silky, and beautifully smooth which prevent Dry and lackluster strands.
Popular Hair Products with Bhringraj
Product | Key Benefits |
Bhringraj Oil | Nourishes roots, reduces hair fall, and promotes regrowth |
Bhringraj Powder | Used in DIY hair masks, strengthens follicles, and prevents breakage |
Bhringraj Shampoo | Gently cleanses scalp, supports long-term hair repair |
Bhringraj Capsules | Internal support for scalp circulation and hormonal balance |
Safety and Patch Testing
Bhringraj is generally safe for all hair types, but always do a patch test before full application. If you’re trying internal use, consult a certified Ayurvedic doctor for personalized dosage.
Conclusion
Bhringraj is a timeless herbal solution for modern hair concerns. Whether you’re aiming to stop hair fall, encourage regrowth, or bring back your hair’s natural shine, this Ayurvedic hair powerhouse has everything your scalp and strands need to thrive.
Consistent use of Bhringraj, especially in combination with a healthy lifestyle and diet, can lead to visibly stronger, thicker, and more youthful hair.
References
Ayurvedic Health Benefits of Bhringraj, Dr. D.Y.Patil College ofAyurvedic and Research Centre, https://ayurved.dpu.edu.in/blogs/bhringraj-benefits-ayurveda-hair-skin-wellness
Lauren Manaker MS. Health Benefits of Bhringraj https://www.health.com/author/lauren-manaker
Satheesh Naik K, Gurushanthaiah M, Kavimani M, Prabhu K, Lokanadham S. Hepatoprotective Role of Eclipta alba against High Fatty Diet Treated Experimental Models – A Histopathological Study. Maedica (Bucur). 2018 Sep;13(3):217-222. Doi: 10.26574/maedica.2018.13.3.217. PMID: 31490461; PMCID: PMC6290179.
Bhringraj: The Secret Ingredient for Healthy Hair, Cultivators, https://shop.cultivator.in/blogs/blog/bhringraj-the-secret-ingredient-for-healthy-hair?srsltid=AfmBOoqSKHX3RXJJN3IWB8qVXQsQvO4hgwsBrBlGv9L2CVsq0_YqiS5a
10 Benefits Of Bhringraj Oil for Hair Growth + How To Use, Kama Ayurveda, https://www.kamaayurveda.in/blog/bhringraj-oil?srsltid=AfmBOooqacd7jTY6Pmz3ZpZeFmmjYM_ysxok2yhTOXoAm2JkJdXmFYlN