Learn to grow Bhringraj from seeds at home and how to use it for hair loss, hair growth, baldness and greying of hair. Bhringraj (Scientific name: Eclipta prostrata) is a medicinal herb that is known for its numerous health benefits. Bhringraj known as False Daisy or Bhringoraj, Bhringraj has been used in traditional Ayurvedic medicine for centuries for hair loss, baldness and greying of hair.
In India, the bhringraj plant is commonly found as a weed growing in hedges and roadsides, etc.
The bhringraj oil activates the hair follicles and increases blood circulation in the scalp, which enhances hair growth. Needless to say, Bhringraj plant is a wonderful addition to any garden.
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| Bhringraj Plant, False Daisy Flowers |
Bhringaraj is a member of the Asteraceae family. It is an annual plant that grows up to about a meter in height, and produces white flowers similar to daisy flowers, hence its name as false daisy.
To identify the Bhringaraj plant, look at its leaves and flowers. Its leaves are lance-shaped, arranged symmetrically in the opposite direction. It has white, yellow and blue colored winged flowers (see picture above), 6 to 8 mm in diameter. The Bhringraj with white or blue flowers is used for medicines, while the plant with yellow flowers are used for decorative purposes.
Propagation of Bhringraj From Seeds
Bhringraj can be propagated through cuttings or from seeds quite easily.
The Bhringraj plant is easily grown and propagated from its seeds or cuttings. Bhringraj is relatively low-maintenance. Continue reading to successfully grow Bhringraj from seeds at home, as I am doing in Sydney, Australia.
Get Bhringraj Seeds
For growing Bhringraj from seeds, you need good quality seeds. Obtain high-quality Bhringraj seeds from garden shops or online, or if you have a bhringraj plant in your neighborhood, you can harvest the seeds from mature Bhringraj plants. I got bhringraj seeds online from seed shop.
The white button-like flowers of the Bhringraj plant (see above picture) produces fat green seeds that turn black when fully mature. Collect the seeds and let them dry in shade, then put them in a Ziploc bag.
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| Bhringraj seeds |
The above amplified picture shows the seeds of bhringraj in a Ziploc bag, actually the seeds are very tiny.
Bhringraj Seeds Germination
Selecting the Right Location: Where to Plant
Bhringraj loves full sunlight, so select a location that receives at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight.
Selecting a Container
Choose a small pot having holes at its bottom to drain excess water. Soggy soil will result in failure.
Preparing the Soil
Bhringraj likes slightly acidic to neutral soil. Prepare a soil mixture that is well-draining and rich in nutrition. Mix in well-rotted compost or aged cow manure to enhance fertility and add some perlite or river sand to increase drainage.
Sowing Seeds
Fill a small pot or seed raising tray with the above mentioned soil mixture.
Spread the tiny bhringraj seeds on the soil or better mix them with sand and sprinkle on the soil surface and lightly press them down with your finger. Do not cover the seeds with too much soil, as they require some light to germinate.
Spray water on soil. Cover the pot with a transparent polythene sheet to create a mini-greenhouse effect.
Place the pot in a bright shade at temperature around 21-27°C (70-80°F). Bhringraj seeds typically take 1-2 weeks to germinate, depending on seed age and temperature.
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| Bhringraj Seedlings |
Watering
Keep the soil moist, especially during the germination phase. Water the seeds gently to avoid displacing them.
Once the seedlings are established, you can reduce the frequency of watering. Do not overwater, water only when the top one inch soil becomes dry.
Transplant Seedlings
Once the seedlings have developed about 4-5 sets of leaves, you may transplant them into larger pots or directly into the garden. Keep a space of about 12-18 inches between plants.
Harvesting
Bhringraj leaves are usually harvested before the plant starts flowering. Harvest the leaves by cutting them with clean scissors or pruning shears or simply with your fingers.
The plant benefits from occasional feeding with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season.
Provide the plants adequate sunlight and water.
Pruning: Pinch the tips of the plants when they reach a height of 6-8 inches to encourage bushier growth. The pruning helps in the development of more branches and foliage.
Pests and Diseases: Common garden pests like aphids and caterpillars may attack the plant. Spray neem oil to treat any any infestations promptly. Good air circulation ensures prevention of fungal diseases.
Bhringraj Benefits, Uses, Formulations
Bhringraj contains vitamins, iron, calcium and magnesium. It is known as the “King of hair” due its immense benefits for hair nourishment. Bhringraj powder if take orally, may improve digestion, liver function and detoxification in body.
Bhringraj Benefits For Hair
Bhringraj can be used as a paste, in oil, or as an oral supplement.
Can Bhringraj cure hair loss and baldness?
In the Ayurveda system of medicine, bhringraj has been used as a hair tonic for ages for hair and scalp problems. It works effectively for hair problems such as dandruff, hair fall, premature graying and restoring the natural pigmentation of the hair.
Using Bhringraj helps in removing excessive dryness on scalp and revitalizes the hair follicles. It is good for hair growth and prevention of thinning of hair and baldness. The results are visible within two weeks of application of Bhringraj oil on scalp.
Using Bhringraj Leaves and Powder for Hair Growth
To use bhringraj leaves and powder for hair growth, make a paste of 1 tsp of bhringraj leaf powder and coconut oil. Apply this paste all over the scalp and hair follicles. Keep the paste for 1- 2 hours and shampoo afterwards. Applying this paste 2-3 times a week may reduce hair fall and stop premature greying of hair.
You can mix amla, and Peppermint or Rosemary or Brahmi oil in the paste to enhance the effectiveness of the paste to prevent hair greying, and hair fall.
Bhringraj oil may change white hair into black, however, it depends on factors such as your age, your hair condition and the amount of oil you use.
How much time does Bhringraj powder take to grow hair if consumed daily?
It has been recommended to take 1/4 -1/2 teaspoon of Bhringraj powder twice a day for 1-2 months for hair growth.
Bhringraj Side Effects
For most people, Bhringraj is safe to use. But some people can have a few side effects such as redness, itching and rashes on the scalp.