Bhringraj is called the "King of Hair remedies" in herbal and Ayurvedic medicine because it is used as an ingredient in almost every hair care product that is why in Ayurveda it is also called Kesharaj. Bhringraj is traditionally known to promote hair growth. Apart from this, Bhringraj is a wonderful herb with the help of which many diseases are treated. Its use provides many benefits in diseases like fever, vomiting, diabetes, eye diseases, mouth diseases, wound healing, stomach related problems, itching etc. Apart from this, it is also used to cure insect bites and snake bites.
What is Bhringraj?
Bhringraj is a plant belonging to the Asteraceae family which is also known as False Daisy. The root, stem, leaves and flowers of Bhringraj are used as medicine. It has many medicinal properties like anti-inflammatory, antihistaminic (relieves allergies), hepatoprotective (keeps liver healthy) and expectorant (relieves phlegm and respiratory diseases).
Benefits of Bhringraj
There are many benefits of Bhringraj for hair, health and skin which are listed below-
Benefits of Bhringraj for hair
Reduce hair fall-
Bhringraj is highly beneficial in hair problems. The nutrients present in it make the hair healthy and strengthen them. Apart from this, Bhringraj oil is easily absorbed in the scalp and helps in improving blood circulation and hair growth. This makes it easy to treat hair fall. The use of Bhringraj makes hair thick and strong.
Increase hair growth-
According to Ayurveda, this herb improves the circulation of blood in the scalp due to which rich nutrients reach the hair roots. As a result the hair roots become stronger and there is an increase in hair growth. Apart from this, the extracts of this plant also encourage hair growth.
For dandruff-
Bhringraj works to retain the moisture of the scalp for a long time. Due to this property, it is used in moisturizing products. Menthol, selenium and zinc are present in Bhringraj which act as anti-flake properties on the scalp (preventing the formation of scabs on the scalp). Apart from this, Bhringraj provides coolness to the hair and helps in getting rid of dandruff. Therefore, Bhringraj is used in almost every hair care product.
Premature gray hair-
Bhringraj helps in maintaining the natural color of the hair and controlling premature graying of hair. For this, mix Bhringraj oil with gooseberry oil and massage the hair regularly. By doing this, the natural brown and black color of the hair remains for a long time. As a result, premature graying of hair is also reduced.
Benefits of Bhringraj for Skin
Beneficial for skin
Bhringraj is good for the skin. It works to take care of the health of the skin. The antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial properties present in it work to protect the skin from infection and other problems. Apart from this, vitamin E found in it is also very beneficial for the skin. Therefore, mixing Bhringraj oil with any other carrier oil and applying it on the skin removes the problem of fine lines, acne, wrinkles and ageing.
For wound healing and insect bites-
Cooking Bhringraj leaves in oil and applying it on cuts, scrapes, bruises and other wounds helps in quick healing of wounds. Apart from this, applying a paste of Bhringraj leaves on any insect bite reduces the effect of poison.
Helpful in eliminating toxins-
Bhringraj helps in eliminating toxins from the body. Massaging with Bhringraj oil is a great way to remove harmful toxins and dirt from the skin. This oil works as a detoxifier and skin cleanser.
Benefits of Bhringraj for health
Beneficial in fever-
Bhringraj has antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties which are effective in curing fever. For this, a decoction of the root, leaves and stalk of Bhringraj should be made and drunk. By doing this, the temperature of the fever starts decreasing.
For the prevention of cold, cough (phlegm)-
Bhringraj extract has antioxidant and antimicrobial properties which prove to be helpful in eliminating the germs that cause cough. Apart from this, Bhringraj also prevents the growth of other harmful germs. Thus, consuming Bhringraj extract provides relief from cough and other viral infections.
For stuffy nose and throat disease-
Bhringraj opens the blocked nose and removes breathing difficulties. It increases the ability of the lungs to take in oxygen. The muscles of the respiratory system are strengthened by the use of this oil. Gargling with a decoction made from Bhringraj reduces swelling of the tongue and bleeding from the teeth. On the other hand, grinding the leaves of Bhringraj and applying it on the throat provides relief in throat diseases like swelling of the throat.
For Anxiety, depression, stress relief
The powder and leaves of Bhringraj help in reducing headache due to anxiety, fatigue, tension etc. because active ingredients are found in Bhringraj, which have a positive effect on the hormonal balance of the body. As a result, there is relief in anxiety, tension, fatigue, headache etc. For this, cook the leaves of Bhringraj well in oil, filter it and let it cool. Now apply it on the head. By doing this, there is benefit in head related disorders. Apart from this, the side effects of traditional medicines can also be avoided by using Bhringraj.
Beneficial for digestive health-
Bhringraj improves digestive health. Its consumption improves bowel related functions. It helps to cure irritable bowel syndrome (abdominal pain, constipation, diarrhea etc.). Therefore, regular consumption of Bhringraj promotes digestion power.
Effective in promoting immune health-
Bhringraj is used in Ayurveda as an energy booster because of its medicinal properties. Its consumption improves the immunity of the body. It works as an antioxidant in the body due to the presence of polyunsaturated fatty acids in it, it also protects the body from oxidation. Apart from this, Bhringraj is also used to increase strength & energy.
For the treatment of dysentery and piles-
Bhringraj plant has anti-inflammatory properties which helps in reducing swelling on any part of the body. Taking the powder of Bhringraj provides relief in the problem of dysentery. Apart from this, taking the powder of its root with milk is also beneficial in piles.
Beneficial in liver problem-
Extracts from the leaves and root of Bhringraj are used to cure liver disorders as wedelolactone, ursolic and oleanolic acid present in Bhringraj have the ability to cure liver disorders.
How is Bhringraj used?
● Bhringraj extract mixed with coconut oil can be used for scalp massage.
● Before taking a bath, a few drops of Bhringraj oil can be mixed in the shampoo and applied to the hair.
● Paste of Bhringraj leaves can be used to reduce inflammation.
● Bhringraj oil is used for joint pain and headache.
● Consuming its leaves with ajwain removes the problem of gallbladder.
● Its leaves can be boiled in water and used as a decoction.
Side effects and Precautions while using Bhringraj
● People suffering from low sugar should avoid consuming it because the properties present in it reduce the level of glucose in the blood.
● Bhringraj has a cooling effect. Therefore, do not massage the head with its oil in cold and flu.
● Excessive consumption of Bhringraj can cause problems like diarrhoea, abdominal cramps and nausea.
● People suffering from constipation should not use Bhringraj as the antispasmodic properties present in it prevents the stool from
becoming greasy due to which the problem of constipation can turn serious.
Pregnant women and women who are planning a baby should use Bhringraj only on the advice of a specialist.