One of the few herbs which are synonymous with the millenia old ancient science of Ayurveda is Bhringraj. Our mothers and grandmothers have been preaching its benefits for years but we did not pay enough attention. Don’t worry we’ve all been there! After reading this blog you’ll be well equipped with the knowledge about this multifaceted herb.
BHRINGRAJ - THE MIRACLE HERB
Majorly produced in the Indian subcontinent, Bhringraj, also known as False Daisy, is an Ayurvedic herb that has been in use since centuries. Ayurveda refers to this herb as a ‘Rasayana’ because it contains rejuvenation and age reversal properties. Bhringraj has been entrusted with the title of ‘Kesaraja’ which means the king of hair, and rightfully so, as this exceptional herb fulfills its kingly duties with all its might. It nurtures, cares, supports, protects and empowers the ones who trust it enough to use it! From household remedies to world famous brands – the benefits that Bhringraj reaps are celebrated everywhere. Widely used in India, Nepal, China and Thailand, Bhringraj finds use in many authentic and traditional preparations as it is the perfect herb for balancing Vata and Kapha Doshas in the body. Bhringraj in taste is hot, bitter, and dry. Although both varieties of this plant (yellow and white) are used to prepare bhringraj oil, the white flowered one is preferred. Interestingly, the leaf of this plant is a powerful liver cleanser, and is especially good for the hair.
BHRINGRAJ FOR HAIR
Blessed with potent bioactive constituents like flavonoids and phytochemicals (good chemicals), the most popular application of Bhringraj finds its place in the hair oil category. This multifaceted, multitalented, humble and low maintenance product can save you from a lot of high maintenance expensive hair care treatments! Here are some its benefits:
• This nourishing hair oil helps in the growth of healthy hair. It acts as a natural conditioner and moisturizer to give shinier hair. This improves its overall texture and volume.
• Its anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties help keep the flakes away and combat scalp psoriasis.
• In comparison to other oils, Bhringraj penetrates deeper into the scalp due to its dense consistency and moisturizes it from within.
• Bhringraj is a treasure trove of nutrients that help prevent breakage and hair loss and provide nutrients to the scalp to reduce hair fall & thinning.
• It helps blacken dull hair and slow down premature greying.
• Bhringraj oil can increase the flow of blood to your head. This is because the oil is known to cause vasodilation, a process through which the blood vessels get widened up, resulting in improved blood flow to the roots of the hair. This process promotes hair growth.
Intriguingly, a study by Roy, R K et al. (2008) showed that the use of Bhringraj oil led to an increase in the amount of hair follicles. It was also concluded that Bhringraj was better than minoxidil (Rogaine) at preventing hair loss.
This magic elixir has many other benefits and is also used for relieving stress, improving memory, and also helps treat certain types of infections.
HOW TO USE IT?
The most effective way Bhringraj can be used is as an oil. Massaging your hair in circular motion with warm Bhringraj oil improves blood circulation, activates the hair follicles and encourages growth. It is advisable to let the oil work its magic for an hour before you wash it off. Honest and continuous use of this oil is sure to reap the above mentioned benefits. As explained earlier these benefits occur due to vasodilation. It is a process through which the blood vessels get widened up thereby resulting in improved blood flow to the roots of the hair.
We recommend trying out these two hair mask recipes!
• For an anti-hair fall try the Bhringraj-Fenugreek hair mask.
For this heat 3 to 4 tablespoon coconut oil in a small tadka pan. Add 5 to 6 seeds of Fenugreek (methi) and about 2 teaspoons of Bhringraj powder. Let it heat for a few seconds. Take off heat. Do not boil or burn. Let it cool. Strain coconut oil infused with goodness of Methi and Bhringraj. Mix with some mashed banana. Apply on hair along the length. Leave for 10 to 15 minutes. Rinse with lukewarm water.
• For damage repair try the Bhringraj-Onion Hair Mask.
Before shampoo, mix 3 to 4 tablespoons of onion juice in Bhringraj powder to make a paste. Wisk some curd and combine all contents to make a smooth paste. Apply on hair along the length. Leave for 10 to 15 minutes. Rinse with lukewarm water.
TOO BUSY FOR DIY HAIR MASKS!
We’ve got you covered. You should check out the Sesa Onion Hair Growth Oil with Bhringraj! The ayurvedic power of onion, bhringraj and pure cold pressed oils of olive, jojoba, hibiscus and grapeseed sets this oil apart from other onion oils. Combination of these powerful ingredients help boost hair growth and repair hair damage. Unlike other onion oils in the market it contains zero percent mineral oil.
We hope you try out this exceptional Ayurvedic herb soon and see for yourself how beneficial it is!