Eclipta alba (Bhringraj) is a small, creeping herb with white flowers and elongated leaves. It is commonly found in moist and tropical climates. Known as the “King of Hair”, it is traditionally used to promote hair growth, prevent premature graying, and strengthen hair follicles.
Bhringraj Scientific Names
- Kingdom: Plantae
- Phylum: Angiosperms
- Class: Magnoliopsida
- Order: Asterales
- Family: Asteraceae
- Genus: Eclipta
- Species: Eclipta alba
Bhringraj Common Names
- English: False Daisy
- Sanskrit: Bhringraj, Kesharaj
- Hindi: Bhangra, Bhringraj
- Tamil: Karisilanganni
- Telugu: Guntagalagara
- Bengali: Bhringoraj
- Marathi: Maka
Bhringraj Uses
- Hair and Scalp Health – Stimulates hair growth and strengthens hair roots, Prevents premature graying and hair loss, Nourishes the scalp and reduces dandruff.
- Liver Protection – Acts as a hepatoprotective agent, supporting liver detoxification, Aids in the treatment of jaundice and liver disorders.
- Skin and Wound Healing – Possesses antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, Used for skin infections, wounds, and eczema.
- Brain and Nervous System Health – Acts as a nootropic that enhances memory and cognitive function, Helps reduce stress and anxiety.
- Respiratory Health – Beneficial in asthma, bronchitis, and chronic cough, Acts as a natural expectorant.
- Cardiovascular Health – Helps regulate blood pressure and cholesterol levels, Improves circulation and strengthens heart function.
Phytochemical Constituents
- Alkaloids: Ecliptine
- Flavonoids: Luteolin, Apigenin
- Sterols: β-Sitosterol
- Coumestans: Wedelolactone, Demethylwedelolactone
- Tannins: Antioxidants
- Triterpenes: Ursolic acid
References
Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India (API), Govt. of India.
Bhavprakash Nighantu, Chapter on Herbal Remedies.
Sharma, R., & Gupta, A. (2019). “Phytochemistry and Therapeutic Applications of Eclipta alba: A Review.” Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 250, 112485.
European Pharmacopoeia, 10th Edition, Council of Europe.
Kumar, S., & Yadav, M. (2021). “Bhringraj (Eclipta alba): A Potential Herb for Liver and Hair Health.” International Journal of Herbal Medicine, 8(2), 45-52.
Chopra, R.N., Nayar, S.L., & Chopra, I.C. (1956). Glossary of Indian Medicinal Plants. CSIR, New Delhi.