Bhringraj (Eclipta alba)
What bhringraj is, how classical Indian texts describe it, what published studies show and where they fall short, how to use it safely, and which GraceYes products contain it.
Names
Bhangra (Hindi); Bhringaraja or Kesharaja, "king of hair" (Sanskrit). The part used is the whole plant.
Classical Indian view
API Vol II lists it as Keshya (good for hair), Tvachya (good for skin) and Rasayana. It is the base of Bhringaraja Taila and Bhringamalakadi Taila.
Key compounds
Wedelolactone, demethylwedelolactone, luteolin.
What studies show
- A topical extract moved hair follicles into the growth phase in mice (PubMed).
- 2% and 5% extract creams halved the time to hair growth in rats and outperformed 2% minoxidil (PubMed).
- It raised FGF-7, a growth factor, in human hair-papilla cells (PubMed).
Limits
All of this is animal or lab work.
Safety
It can darken hair and skin. Patch test.
GraceYes products that contain it
This page is for general information and is not medical advice. Studies are linked so you can read them yourself. Always patch-test a new product, and speak to a doctor about any skin or scalp condition.