Bhringraj
Sanskrit: Bhringaraja
Eclipta prostrata
The classic Indian hair-oil herb, traditionally simmered into oils for the scalp and hair.
Also known as
Bhringraj · Bhangra · False daisy
- hindi:
- Bhringraj / Bhangra
- tamil:
- Karisalankanni
- telugu:
- Guntagalagara
- bengali:
- Kesuti
- marathi:
- Maka
Parts used
- Whole herb
- Leaves
Traditional overview
- Traditionally infused into coconut or sesame oil for scalp massage.
- Fresh leaf paste is a traditional external application for the scalp.
- Known in older texts as kesharaja, the "ruler of hair".
Common traditional forms
- herbal hair oil
- fresh leaf paste
- powder for external use
- leaf juice
Wellness tags
- hair
- scalp
- skin
Body focus
- scalp
- hair
- skin
Concerns
- dry scalp
- weak-looking hair
- hair-care support
What to know before use
Primarily a topical hair and scalp herb, traditionally simmered into oils. Patch-test any new oil behind the ear before scalp-wide use. Internal use is not a casual household practice and should be practitioner-guided. Hair loss with a sudden onset, patchy bald areas, or scalp pain and scaling needs medical assessment rather than home oiling alone.
Important cautions
External hair and scalp use is the well-established traditional pattern. Internal use is a separate practice and should only happen under practitioner guidance.
Who should avoid it
- Anyone considering internal use without practitioner guidance
- People with a known allergy to daisy-family plants
- People with liver conditions, for internal use
- People with sensitive skin, without a patch test
Medicine interactions
- Internal use may interact with medicines for blood sugar
- Internal use may add to sedative medicines
- Caution alongside medicines processed by the liver
PregnancyAvoid internal use during pregnancy and nursing. External oil use should still be checked with a practitioner.
ChildrenExternal oil use is traditional for children. Do not give internally to children.
Quality and buying guidance
Look for the botanical name Eclipta prostrata (also sold as Eclipta alba) on the label. Dried leaf should be dark green with a clean, grassy smell — brown, dusty or musty material is old. Ready-made bhringraj oils differ enormously: prefer products that list a genuine base oil (coconut or sesame) and the herb content, from a licensed manufacturer, and store away from sunlight.
Evidence note
This entry rests on traditional and household use recorded over generations, not on clinical trials. Treat it as cultural and educational information.
Related ingredients
Traditional wellness information only — not medical advice. Start small, and check with a qualified practitioner if you are pregnant, nursing, treating a child, or managing a medical condition.