Botanical name: Eclipta prostrata (syn. Eclipta alba) · Family: Asteraceae · Sanskrit: Bhringaraja (भृंगराज) — “King of Hair” · Primary texts: Charaka Samhita, Bhavaprakasha, Ashtanga Hridayam, Raj Nighantu
Bhringaraj, whose name translates as “King of Hair” (Bhringa = bee/black, Raja = king), is the classical Ayurvedic herb most specifically associated with hair health and Keshya (hair-supporting) properties. Beyond its fame in hair care, Bhringaraj is also a significant Rasayana and Medhya (cognitive-supporting) herb. Bhavaprakasha describes it as one of the premier herbs for liver health support and classifies it alongside other Keshya herbs.
Classical Properties (Dravyaguna)
Rasa: Katu (Pungent), Tikta (Bitter)
Guna: Laghu (Light), Ruksha (Dry)
Virya: Ushna (Warming)
Vipaka: Katu (Pungent)
Prabhava: Keshya (hair-supporting), Rasayana
Dosha action: Pacifies Kapha and Vata. May mildly aggravate Pitta in large doses due to warming nature, though clinical use for Pitta-type hair conditions is well-documented (where Pitta affects Bhrajaka Pitta in the scalp).
Classical References
Bhavaprakasha: Described in Guduchyadi Varga. Bhavaprakasha provides the most detailed classical description, stating: “Bhringaraj is the best among Keshya herbs. It is also Rasayana and supports liver function and complexion.”
Charaka Samhita: Referenced in the Rasayana chapter and in formulations for liver and digestive support.
Raj Nighantu: Describes two varieties — Shweta Bhringaraj (white-flowered) and Krishna Bhringaraj (yellow-flowered), with the white variety considered more potent for hair applications.
Botanical Description
Eclipta prostrata is an annual, erect or prostrate herb growing 20–60 cm. Stems are reddish-brown to blackish. Leaves are opposite, sessile, lanceolate with rough texture. Small white flower heads appear at the ends of branches. When crushed, the plant exudes a black juice — this characteristic blackening property connects it to its traditional use for maintaining natural hair colour. Found commonly throughout tropical India in moist, marshy areas, agricultural fields, and riverbanks.
Traditional Uses
Keshya: The premier classical hair herb — used for supporting natural hair colour, strength, growth, and scalp health.
Yakrit Uttejaka: Traditional liver health support — one of the most important hepato-supportive herbs in Ayurveda.
Rasayana: Described as a rejuvenative, particularly for the liver and digestive system.
Medhya: Traditional cognitive function support.
Netrya: Traditional eye health support.
Classical Preparations
Bhringaraj Thailam: Medicated hair oil — the most famous Bhringaraj preparation. Classical recipe in Sahasrayogam processes Bhringaraj juice in sesame or coconut oil.
Bhringamalakadi Thailam: Combination of Bhringaraj + Amalaki in oil — classical hair care formula from Sahasrayogam.
Bhringaraj Churnam: Powdered herb for internal use, or mixed into hair packs.
Bhringaraj Swarasa: Fresh juice — applied to the scalp or taken internally under practitioner guidance.
Part Used and Dosage
Part used: Whole plant (Panchanga — roots, stems, leaves, flowers, seeds)
Churnam: 3–6 grams
Swarasa (fresh juice): 10–20 ml
Oil: For external application to scalp and hair as directed
Consult a qualified Ayurvedic physician for personalised guidance.
This article is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice.
Related Articles on Ayurvedapedia
- What Is Abhyanga? A Complete Guide to the Classical Ayurvedic Oil Massage Ritual
- Chitrak (Plumbago zeylanica) — Classical Ayurvedic Herb Reference
- Vidanga (Embelia ribes) — Classical Ayurvedic Herb Reference
- Srotas (Body Channels) — Classical Ayurvedic Physiology Reference
- Dashamula (Ten Roots) — Classical Ayurvedic Formulation Reference
Frequently Asked Questions about Bhringaraj
What is Bhringaraj in Ayurveda?
Bhringaraj is a classical concept in Ayurvedic tradition. Refer to the article above for detailed information about its properties, uses, and significance in traditional Ayurvedic practice.
How is Bhringaraj traditionally used?
In classical Ayurveda, Bhringaraj is traditionally used as part of holistic wellness practices. The specific applications are described in texts such as the Charaka Samhita and Ashtanga Hridayam.
Where can I find authentic Bhringaraj products?
Art of Vedas offers a range of authentic Ayurvedic products prepared according to classical methods. Browse the Art of Vedas collection for traditionally crafted preparations.