Bhringaraj

(False Daisy)
Sanskrit: भृंगराज • Botanical: Eclipta alba Hassk.

Bhringaraj (Eclipta alba) is the premier hair herb in Ayurveda. Its name literally means 'ruler of the hair' (Bhring = bee/hair, Raj = king). The plant reaches about 1000 foot elevation and grows in moist areas. The whole plant, especially the leaves, is used medicinally. It is described as pungent, bitter, light, dry, and hot in potency. The text emphasizes its primary action as Keshya (hair growth promoting) and Rasayana (rejuvenative). It turns grey hair black, prevents hair fall, and promotes new growth. It is also excellent for the liver (Yakrit) and spleen (Pleeha), and is one of the best liver tonics. The juice is applied to the scalp for hair benefits. The plant has white flowers and the juice turns black on exposure - hence the name. The text also discusses Wedelia calendulacea (Peela Bhangra / Yellow Eclipta) as a related species with similar but slightly different properties. Bhringaraj is used in Bhringaraj Taila (oil) which is the most popular Ayurvedic hair oil. Dose: juice 10-20 ml; powder 3-6 grams. Verse refs: pages 428-430.

Ayurvedic Properties

Taste (Rasa)
Pungent (Katu), Bitter (Tikta)
Quality (Guna)
Light (Laghu), Dry (Ruksha)
Potency (Virya)
Hot (Ushna)
Post-digestive (Vipaka)
Pungent (Katu)
Key Constituents
Ecliptine (Ecliptasaponin), Wedelolactone, Coumarin compounds. Note: Also related to Wedelia calendulacea (False Eclipta).
Also Known As
English: False Daisy, Trailing Eclipta
Sanskrit: भृंगराज, केशराज, मार्कव, भृंगरक
Hindi: भांगरा, भृंगराज

What is Bhringaraj (False Daisy / भृंगराज)?

Bhringaraj (Eclipta alba) is the premier hair herb in Ayurveda. Its name literally means 'ruler of the hair' (Bhring = bee/hair, Raj = king). The plant reaches about 1000 foot elevation and grows in moist areas. The whole plant, especially the leaves, is used medicinally. It is described as pungent, bitter, light, dry, and hot in potency. The text emphasizes its primary action as Keshya (hair growth promoting) and Rasayana (rejuvenative). It turns grey hair black, prevents hair fall, and promotes new growth. It is also excellent for the liver (Yakrit) and spleen (Pleeha), and is one of the best liver tonics. The juice is applied to the scalp for hair benefits. The plant has white flowers and the juice turns black on exposure - hence the name. The text also discusses Wedelia calendulacea (Peela Bhangra / Yellow Eclipta) as a related species with similar but slightly different properties. Bhringaraj is used in Bhringaraj Taila (oil) which is the most popular Ayurvedic hair oil. Dose: juice 10-20 ml; powder 3-6 grams. Verse refs: pages 428-430.

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 3

Therapeutic Actions (Karma)

  • Keshya (promotes hair growth)
  • Rasayana (rejuvenative)
  • Netrya (beneficial for eyes)
  • Dantya (beneficial for teeth)
  • Yakritpleehahara (beneficial for liver and spleen)
  • Krimighna (anthelmintic)
  • Shothahara (reduces swelling)
  • Kaphahara (alleviates Kapha)
  • Vatahara (alleviates Vata)

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 3

Bhringaraj by Condition

Explore how Bhringaraj is used for specific health concerns — with dosage, preparation methods, and classical references for each.

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Bhringaraj for Inflammation
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Bhringaraj for Male Sexual Health

Medical Disclaimer: The information on this page is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Ayurvedic treatments should be pursued under the guidance of a qualified practitioner (BAMS/MD Ayurveda). Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any new treatment. Content is sourced from classical Ayurvedic texts and may not reflect the latest medical research.