The Versatile Bhringraj (Eclipta alba): A Multi-Purpose Herb in Ayurvedic Medicine

Eclipta alba, commonly known as false daisy or bhringraj, is a remarkable herb that has found its place of prominence in Ayurvedic medicine. This versatile plant, belonging to the Asteraceae family, goes by various names, including bhangra, bhringaraj, and bhringraja. In this article, we explore the diverse uses of bhringraj in traditional Ayurvedic remedies and its role in promoting health and well-being.

Ayurvedic Heritage

Bhringraj has been a part of Ayurvedic medicine for centuries. Its numerous therapeutic properties are attributed to its unique taste and qualities, which are bitter, hot, pungent, and dry. Ayurveda regards bhringraj as a key herb for various purposes, including hair care, liver health and cirrhosis treatment.

Hair, Teeth, and Bones Rejuvenation

One of the most celebrated uses of bhringraj in Ayurveda is its role in maintaining and rejuvenating hair, teeth, and bones. It is believed to enhance memory, sight, and hearing while promoting kidney and liver health. As an oil, bhringraj is used to address issues like premature graying, hair loss, and insomnia. Additionally, it is known to improve complexion.

A Panacea for Various Ailments

Bhringraj is a versatile herb with applications that extend beyond hair and skin care. It plays a significant role in addressing various health concerns, including hepatitis, enlarged spleen, and skin disorders. When mixed with salt, it can alleviate the discomfort associated with burning urination. A blend of bhringraj and a small amount of oil, when applied to the head, can provide relief from headaches.

Women’s Health and Uterine Care

Ayurveda also recommends bhringraj to prevent recurring miscarriages and ease post-delivery uterine pain. The herb’s leaves are utilized to reduce uterine bleeding, making it a valuable ally for women’s health. The extract taken from its leaves, mixed with honey, is given to infants to expel worms. Additionally, bhringraj is considered beneficial for children with urinary tract infections.

Beyond Beauty: Skin and Eye Health

Bhringraj’s applications are not limited to hair and internal health; it also finds its place in addressing skin diseases and eye infections. Its anti-inflammatory properties make it an effective remedy in the management of hyperacidity.

Hair Growth and Color Improvement

Research suggests that petroleum ether extracts from Eclipta alba promote hair regrowth. These extracts have been found to reduce the time it takes for hair to begin growing and fully regrow, making bhringraj a natural solution for hair growth and color improvement.

Remedies for Specific Ailments

Bhringraj is recognized for its potential in managing a wide range of specific health concerns. These remedies, based on Ayurvedic traditions, include:

• Jaundice Relief: Consuming bhringraj leaf juice with yogurt offers relief for jaundice. Alternatively, a mixture of bhringraj plant powder and sugar candy is known to alleviate this condition.
• Anal Prolapse and Insect Bites: Bhringraj root and turmeric chutney can provide relief for anal prolapse and insect bites.
• Stomach Upset: For stomach discomfort, a mixture of bhringraj leaf juice or powder with yogurt can be consumed over three days.
• Eye Health: To maintain sharp eyesight, consuming a mixture of bhringraj leaf powder and honey on an empty stomach every morning is recommended.
• Addressing White Spots: Bhringraj with black leaves and branches, when roasted and consumed daily for about four months, can help address white spots on the skin.
• Uterine Strengthening: Women suffering from miscarriages can drink 5-6 grams of fresh bhringraj leaf juice daily to strengthen the uterus.
• Preventing Gray Hair: Mixing Triphala powder with bhringraj juice and swallowing it with water can help prevent premature graying.
• Stuttering Remedy: Those with a stutter may benefit from daily intake of ten grams of bhringraj juice mixed with desi ghee, cooked and consumed for a month.

A Promising Herb for Liver Health

Bhringraj juice is recognized for its potential to address liver diseases. A unique regimen, which involves consuming only milk on the day of taking ten grams of fresh bhringraj juice for a month, offers the possibility of rejuvenation.

Vaginitis Relief for Women

For women experiencing vaginitis after childbirth, a combination of bhringraj plant root and bael plant root powder with honey can provide relief. A daily intake of this mixture for seven days can be beneficial.

Bhringraj: Nature’s Gift for Holistic Health

Bhringraj, with its diverse array of applications and health benefits, is a testament to the wisdom of Ayurveda. From hair care to liver health and beyond, this versatile herb continues to play a crucial role in traditional Ayurvedic medicine. Embracing the wisdom of the past, bhringraj offers a natural approach to holistic well-being and health maintenance.

Disclaimer:

This revelation is crafted with the fervent aim of amplifying enlightenment and awakening. Employing it without the counsel of an expert is vehemently disapproved.

Know more about Bhringraj in Hindi:

1. आयुर्वेद में भृंगराज (Bhringraj)
2. भृंगराज (Bhringraj) के नाम और अन्य परिचय
3. भांगरे (Bhringraj) के कुछ शास्त्रीय अनुप्रयोग
4. भृंगराज (Bhringraj) के अन्य देशों में उपयोग
5. भृंगराज (Bhringraj) और आधुनिक चिकित्सा विज्ञान

Source:

1. Ayurveda Classical Text
   • Mishra, Bhav. (1500-1600AD). Bhavprakash Samhita.
   • Acharya Charak. (100BCE – 200CE). Charak Samhita.
   • Sen, Govind Das. (1925AD). Bhaishajya Ratnavali.
   • Bhandari, Chandraraj (1938AD). Vanoushadhi Chandroday.
2. Modern Reseach Papers
   • Mukharjee, Debashish & Lokwani, Sakshi & Dave, Arya & Gonsalves, Cloris & Sarkar, Chiradeep. (2021). Bhringraj: A Pharmaceutical Treasure Trove. 12. 35231 – 35239.
   • Jahan R, Al-Nahain A, Majumder S, Rahmatullah M. Ethnopharmacological Significance of Eclipta alba (L.) Hassk. (Asteraceae). Int Sch Res Notices. 2014 Oct 29;2014:385969. doi: 10.1155/2014/385969. PMID: 27355071; PMCID: PMC4897414.
3. Images: Photographer: Ashwani Kumar