Bhringraj Benefits - How to Use Bhringraj Powder for Hair Growth - Self Care Voyage

Bhringaraj is a treasure trove of phytochemicals. It contains compounds like coumestans, polypeptides, polyacetylenes, thiophene derivatives, steroids, sterols, triterpenes, and flavonoids, to name a few. These compounds might be the reason behind their traditional uses and health benefits.

Bhringaraj, scientifically known as Eclipta prostrata, is a plant celebrated in Ayurveda for its many health benefits.

What is Bhringraj Plant?

Bhringaraj, scientifically known as Eclipta prostrata, is a plant celebrated in Ayurveda for its many health benefits.

Belonging to the sunflower family, Bhringaraj is a unique plant that can grow up to a foot tall and is adorned with daisy-like white flowers. In the vast landscapes, Bhringraj is colloquially known as “false daisy.” This plant makes its presence known in Nepal, China, Thailand, Bangladesh, Brazil, and other moist regions globally, adding a touch of nature’s charm.

When you come closer to this plant, you’ll notice its grayish roots, purplish stems covered with fine white hairs, lanceolate leaves, and quaint white florets that appear in solitary flower heads.

Bhringraj Supplementary Facts

Chemical Constituents and Benefits

The Potent Compounds Within Bhringraj

Alkaloids: Naturally occurring organic compounds predominantly comprised of basic nitrogen atoms.
Flavonoids: A diverse group of polyphenolic compounds with potential antioxidant properties.
Saponins: Plant-derived compounds known for their frothing characteristics.

Forms and Usages

Bhringraj isn’t just confined to one form. You can find it as an oral supplement or topical oil.

Interestingly, its historical use in food and traditional medicine stretches over 1,000 years. Its versatility allows it to appear in numerous supplements – from pills, capsules, and liquids to topicals.

If you’re looking for something for hair health, Bhringraj oil could be your ally. You can apply it directly or purchase it already incorporated into various hair products like the cocoveda oil at Hennasooq.

However, before you get too excited, consult a professional since rigorous trials are still needed to vouch for its safety and effectiveness.

Top 10 Health Benefits of Bhringraj Oil & Powder for Hair

Hair Growth Stimulator: Bhringraj stands as a potent elixir for hair-related concerns. It’s known for boosting hair growth. Bhringraj oil can work wonders by stimulating hair follicles, potentially more effectively than minoxidil, a popular hair growth treatment. A concoction of Bhringraj powder, when blended with water, oil, or yogurt, morphs into a wonderful hair mask.

BeauTop, a health food supplement containing various ingredients, including Eclipta prostrata (Bhringraj), showcased promising results in promoting hair growth. When orally administered at a dosage of 0.6g/kg/day to alopecia-induced C57BL/6 mice, it led to a noticeable induction of hair growth by day 8.

Key findings related to hair growth include:

Enhancement of Growth Factors: The expression levels of epidermal growth factor and fibroblast growth factor -7 were markedly increased on day 8, as opposed to control animals.
Reduction in FGF-5: By day 12, FGF-5 levels in the BeauTop group were significantly lower than in the control group.

The above observations indicate the potential of Bhringraj, as a component of BeauTop, in promoting hair growth by modulating growth factors. This result aligns with other findings suggesting the significance of FGFs in hair growth regulation.

Additionally, another study showed that Eclipta prostrata significantly enhances hair growth by promoting the induction of the anagen phase, the active growth phase of hair follicles where cells rapidly divide and produce new hair.

The study indicates that Eclipta prostrata supports the anagen phase by regulating specific fibroblast growth factors, FGF-7 and FGF-5. The results show that EP treatment led to the initiation of the anagen phase, signified by the appearance of the inner root sheath along with the hair shaft and the emergence of the hair shaft through the epidermis.

Furthermore, EP increased the expression of FGF-7, which is beneficial for hair growth and decreased the expression of FGF-5 in C57BL/6N mice.

Molecular Mechanism in Hair Growth: Eclipta prostrata has been found to activate mTOR signaling in human dermal papilla cells, pointing to its potential to promote hair follicle growth. The mTOR pathway plays a pivotal role in cell growth, and its activation suggests EP’s efficacy in enhancing the vitality of hair follicles.
Target for Controlling Eyelash Growth: Given the role of FGF5 in regulating hair length and its presence in human hair follicles, understanding how Eclipta prostrata interacts with this factor could offer insights into potential therapeutic applications, especially in controlling eyelash growth.

Dandruff and Scalp Health: Say goodbye to itchy and flaky scalps! The antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties of Bhringraj oil help combat dandruff and scalp irritations. Inflammation plays a key role in many chronic diseases. The compounds from Eclipta prostrata have demonstrated significant anti-inflammatory properties. For instance, compounds (1-4, 7, 8, 10) were found to inhibit nitric oxide (NO) production in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated RAW264.7 cells. Especially, compound 9 showed potent inhibitory effects, suggesting that Eclipta prostrata can be a valuable resource in developing anti-inflammatory therapies.
Gray Hair Prevention: Getting a little salt with your pepper earlier than you’d like? Bhringraj oil might be your new go-to, as it’s traditionally used to prevent premature graying. A mix of Bhringraj and coconut oil might offer some respite.
Overall Hair Health: Packed with vitamins and minerals such as vitamin E, vitamin D, magnesium, calcium, and iron, Bhringraj ensures the overall health of your hair.
Anti-hair Loss: Bhringraj oil is recommended for those with a history of hair loss or shedding, providing an Ayurvedic touch to hair loss prevention. While Eclipta prostrata has shown hair growth promotion in mice, similar plants or herbal mixtures such as BeauTop (BT) have demonstrated potential benefits for hair growth in mice, suggesting that plants with similar properties, including EP, might hold promise for human alopecia treatment.
Relaxation and Sleep Aid: Had a long day? Massage your scalp with Bhringraj oil. Its magnesium content can promote relaxation and can even assist in ensuring you get a good night’s sleep.
Improved Blood Circulation: When applied to the scalp, this oil can stimulate circulation, a critical factor in promoting healthy hair growth.
Shine and Radiance: Your hair can get that desired shine and radiance, and blending Bhringraj with carrier oils can treat split ends and enhance hair shine.
Natural Moisturization: Bhringraj oil offers hair and scalp benefits, including preventing dandruff and providing natural moisturization.
Stress Relief with Hair and Scalp Massages: Warm Bhringraj oil can relieve stress while cooling and soothing the scalp. Ideal after a long day or when you’re feeling a bit overwhelmed.

A word of caution, though: while Bhringraj oil and powder offer various benefits, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare provider, especially if you’re on specific medications or have certain health conditions.

In the realm of hair care, Bhringraj seems to be a gem, offering both hair and health benefits. If you decide to try it, here’s hoping for luscious locks and peaceful nights!

Bhringraj Side Effects

Like many natural remedies, Bhringraj is not all sunshine and rainbows. There are potential side effects to keep an eye out for!

Frequent Urination: One of the side effects can be frequent urination. This disadvantage might be due to its potential diuretic properties. So, if you’re planning a long road trip, remember this adverse effect!
Allergic Reactions: As with many natural products, some people may experience allergic reactions. Always patch test before fully diving in!
Liver Problems: More severe side effects can include liver problems. This adverse effect is serious, folks, so if you’ve got liver concerns, it might be best to steer clear or consult a healthcare professional.
Metal and Arsenic Toxicity: Hold on to your hats; this problem is big! Ayurvedic products, including Bhringraj, have sometimes been found to contain high levels of harmful metals. A shocking survey found high lead levels in 40% of users of some Ayurvedic products. Moreover, arsenic poisoning has been flagged as a potential risk. Yikes!
Special Precautions: If you are a child, pregnant, breastfeeding, or dealing with liver, urinary, or age-related issues, it’s best to stay safe and avoid Bhringraj. Safety first!
Potential Overdose: Without clear dosage guidelines, there’s a risk of overdose, which could magnify the side effects mentioned.
Medication Interactions: If you’re on medications, especially those related to blood pressure, cholesterol, or urinary conditions, be sure to have a chat with your healthcare provider. Interactions can occur, and we want to keep you safe and sound!

External Use Concerns: Regarding Bhringraj oil, patch tests are advised before topical use, especially if you have acne-prone skin.

Bhringraj Uses

Ayurvedic Significance: Dubbed the “king of hair,” Bhringaraj holds an esteemed position in Ayurveda, largely due to its outstanding benefits for hair growth and scalp health. Don’t just take my word for it; research, although many on mice, shows that its prowess might even surpass minoxidil when it comes to preventing hair loss. With a name in Sanskrit like “kesharaja,” which hints at its hair-centric properties, it’s no wonder it’s such a favorite for luscious locks.

Enhancing Circulation: But the wonders of Bhringaraj extend beyond hair care. Its bitter, cooling, and rejuvenating attributes offer a respite to the mind, enhance circulation, and promote skin health.
Culinary Rituals: Bhringaraj leaves have even found culinary use in Southeast Asia, often cooked as a vegetable, especially in regions like Bali.
The Mind and Body Soother: It’s also a fantastic cooling agent for the mind, nervous system, and liver. If you run hot or need a calming influence, this might be your new go-to.
Asthmatic Relief: It also aids the respiratory tract and reproductive organs with its aromatic attributes, offering overall rejuvenation to the body.

A significant study aimed to investigate the effects of a compound MEEP ( Methanol Extract of Eclipta prostrata) in vivo using a chronic ovalbumin (OVA)-induced allergic asthma model in mice. The study revealed the constituents of MEEP as WED and DMW with concentrations of 5.12% and 1.04%, respectively. When administered to male Balb/c mice, MEEP displayed potent anti-asthmatic properties.

Key findings include:

Reduction in Bronchial Hyperresponsiveness: MEEP, especially at 250mg/kg and 500mg/kg, considerably decreased bronchial hyperresponsiveness.
Decrease in Eosinophil Counts: Eosinophils, a type of white blood cell implicated in asthma, were significantly reduced in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid upon MEEP treatment.
Modulation of Cytokines: MEEP reduced the levels of IL-4, a Th2 cytokine implicated in asthma. Additionally, at 500mg/kg, MEEP decreased IL-5 levels but did not impact IL-13 concentration or mucus production.
Inhibition of NF-kB Activation: Nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-kB) is a protein complex involved in inflammatory responses, and MEEP successfully inhibited its activation.

These findings suggest that Bhringraj extract may have potential therapeutic benefits for individuals with asthma, especially in attenuating allergic airway inflammation and bronchial hyperresponsiveness. This finding aligns with other research indicating varying asthma responses based on different challenge methods and the roles of cytokines such as IL-25 and IL-33.

Additionally, using a mouse model, the study on IL-22’s influence on allergic asthma hints at the complex interplay of cytokines and interventions in managing airway inflammation.

More than Just a Pretty Leaf: This herb isn’t just about looking good on the outside; it’s also about feeling good on the inside. Bhringraj is rich in vitamins and minerals, such as vitamins E, D, magnesium, calcium, and iron. Some of this wonder herb’s suggested benefits include relaxation, UTI prevention, liver detoxification, and even relief from headaches! There’s even a whisper that it might potentially support memory, especially related to conditions like Alzheimer’s.
Anti-diabetic and Anti-obesity Properties: Beyond hair growth, the white-flowered leaves of Eclipta prostrata, when used in conjunction with leaves of Scoparia dulcis and Cynodon dactylon, have shown significant improvements in managing diabetes. Key compounds derived from this plant exhibit strong inhibitory effects on protein tyrosine phosphatase (PTP) 1B, a potential target for treating type 2 diabetes and obesity. Specifically, fatty acids (23,24) showed potent PTP1B inhibition, while triterpenoid-glycosides (12,15) exhibited moderate inhibitory effects.
Nerve and Bone Health: Bhringraj is also linked to nerve health and bone tissue rejuvenation.
Bhringaraj and Snake Bites: Bhringaraj is known to counteract snake bites, especially from rattlesnakes. It can neutralize the venom, relieving the adverse effects of snake bites. This medicinal property has been highlighted as one of its myriad health advantages. Bhringaraj oil has been mentioned to neutralize rattlesnake venom, offering potential therapeutic benefits following snake bites. Additionally, Bhringaraj has demonstrated potential for treating scorpion stings by inhibiting the venom.

Dosage: How Much Bhringraj Should I Take?

Regarding the specific dosage of Bhringraj, the recommendations differ based on the form in which it’s consumed:

Bhringraj Powder: Taking between 1-3 grams of Bhringraj powder is suggested. This powder can be consumed with water or honey, especially after light meals, to maximize its benefits.
Bhringraj Juice: For those who prefer the juice form of Bhringraj, the recommendation is between 3-10 milliliters. This form can be taken up to 2-3 times daily.
Bhringraj Extract: If you take Bhringraj in its extract form, the suggested dose ranges from 250-500 milligrams. Like the juice, it can be taken 2-3 times daily for optimal effects.

However, it’s crucial to note a few key points

Consultation: Before starting any dosage or introducing Bhringraj to your regimen, it’s imperative to consult a healthcare provider, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking other medications. This caution is recommended because the effectiveness, safety, and potential interactions with other drugs can vary among individuals.
Safety: While Bhringraj is generally considered safe within the recommended limits, some potential side effects like allergies, liver problems, frequent urination, and vision changes have been noted. It’s always best to stay within the advised limits and monitor for unusual reactions.

How to Store Bhringraj

Whether you’re using it as an oral supplement or the popular Bhringraj oil for that luscious hair, you’ll want to ensure it retains its potency and effectiveness, right? And to do so, storage plays a pivotal role.

Here are your handy steps to storing Bhringraj correctly:

Keep It Cool and Dry: First and foremost, always store Bhringraj products in a cool and dry place. This method helps retain their natural potency and keeps them from getting spoilt. Think of it as preserving a delicate herb in a sanctuary!
Mind the Expiry: Even natural products have a shelf life. So, when you invest in Bhringraj, remember to check the label for any expiry date. A general rule of thumb is to discard it after a year or as directed on the product packaging. You’d not want to use outdated products, would you?
Dispose of Responsibly: If you’ve got any leftover Bhringraj supplements or oils, resist the urge to toss them down the drain or toilet. Instead, it’s best to refer to the FDA’s proper disposal guidelines or consult your local pharmacist for advice. Our planet will thank you!
Dispose of Responsibly: If you’ve got any leftover Bhringraj supplements or oils, resist the urge to toss them down the drain or toilet. Instead, it’s best to refer to the FDA’s proper disposal guidelines or consult your local pharmacist for advice. Our planet will thank you!
Combine with Care: If you consider combining Bhringraj with other supplements, always chat with your healthcare provider first. This step will ensure you get the best out of your products and avoid unwanted interactions.
Choose Quality Over Quantity: As with any herbal product, always opt for high-quality, third-party-tested supplements. It’s a smart way to ensure you’re getting pure and potent Bhringraj without any harmful additives. The last thing we want is to compromise on the herb’s authentic benefits!

Key Takeaways

Here are the key takeaways from the review on Bhringraj:

Source and Forms:

Bhringraj, commonly called “false daisy,” is derived from the Eclipta alba plant. It’s available as an oral supplement, topical oil, and in various other forms like powder and capsules. It can be bought online and at specialty stores.

Benefits for Hair and Scalp:

Bhringraj oil promotes hair growth, strengthens hair, and helps prevent dandruff and premature graying.

Its use enhances hair shine, guards against hair loss, and has a reputation for preventing premature hair greying due to improved scalp blood circulation.

Composition and Properties:

The oil contains vitamins E, D, magnesium, calcium, and iron.

Bhringraj has anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant attributes.

Active ingredients in Bhringraj include alkaloids and flavonoids.

Other Potential Benefits:

Beyond hair care, Bhringraj oil can offer relaxation, aid in liver detoxification, help prevent UTIs, treat headaches, and potentially improve Alzheimer’s-related memory loss. It is even believed to neutralize rattlesnakes and scorpion venom.

Usage and Application:

Recommendations for using Bhringraj oil include massaging the oil into the scalp, creating hair masks, or mixing it with carrier oils.

For best results, one can heat the oil, massage it onto the scalp, especially focusing on problematic areas, and let it sit for about 30 minutes before rinsing.

Precautions and Side Effects:

While typically having few side effects, oral ingestion might lead to stomach discomfort or chills. Care is recommended concerning blood clotting, and a patch test is advised before topical application. People with acne-prone skin should be cautious due to its comedogenic nature.

Bhringraj products can sometimes carry risks related to metal toxicity and arsenic poisoning.

It’s essential to consult healthcare professionals before using Bhringraj, especially for pregnant individuals, nursing individuals, or those on medications.

Products and Brands:

There are varied Bhringraj products catering to different needs, such as Khadi Natural Bhringraj Herbal Hair Oil, Banyan Botanicals Bhringaraj Powder, and Mauli Rituals Grow Strong Hair Oil.

Bhringraj FAQ

What is Bhringraj called in English?

Bhringraj is known in English as “false daisy.”.

What are the side effects of Bhringraj?

Bhringraj’s side effects range from frequent urination to more severe reactions. Ayurvedic products, including Bhringraj, might contain toxic metals, as indicated by surveys showing elevated blood levels in users. Overdosing on Bhringraj can lead to symptoms resembling severe side effects. It is also noteworthy to mention potential side effects like chills when using Bhringraj oil.

What is the benefit of Bhringraj?

Bhringraj has several potential benefits:

Bhringraj may act as a diuretic, benefiting blood pressure and cholesterol.

Animal studies have suggested its efficacy in hair growth and dandruff control.

The oil derived from Bhringraj may promote hair growth by increasing the number of hair follicles and has components like vitamin E that counteract free radicals hindering hair growth. It also possesses antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce dandruff and scalp irritations.

Some research suggests Bhringraj might slow down hair graying due to its darkening properties and is rich in vitamins like E and D and minerals like magnesium, calcium, and iron.

Bhringaraj oil benefits skin health, treating conditions such as psoriasis and acne, aiding digestion, improving vision, enhancing liver function, gastrointestinal health, heart health, pain management, immunity, diabetes, respiratory issues, and even cholera symptoms.

Is Bhringraj good for hair?

Yes, Bhringraj is beneficial for hair. In Ayurveda, it is praised for promoting hair growth, strengthening hair, and combating graying and dandruff. Bhringaraj oil promotes hair growth by enhancing blood circulation to follicles and enriching roots. It treats dandruff and scalp itchiness with its antimicrobial properties. Furthermore, the oil combats premature graying prevents dryness, and addresses hair fall by balancing doshas.