Bhringraj oil has for a long time been used for preventing hair loss and promoting hair growth among various other uses. Known in the West only as “false daisy,” bhringraj (Eclipta alba) is a flower plant with characteristic white or yellow blossom.
The herb is widely believed to promote hair growth, among other benefits, particularly in the Far East where it originated, but scientific evidence is scanty at best.
In this article, we turn to science to see if really there is anything “tangible” to support those bold claims.
Why Bhringraj Oil is Good for Hair Growth?
Bhringraj is believed to:
- Be a rich source of several nutrients, including alkaloids, flavonoids, and saponins.
- Contain anti-inflammatory properties, which can offer a remedy for psoriasis or other skin irritations on the scalp.
- Improve circulation to the scalp.
- Have antimicrobial and antifungal properties.
Besides, the herb has vitamins and minerals including:
- Vitamin E
- Vitamin D
- Magnesium
- Calcium
- Iron
Benefits of Bhringraj Oil on Hair
The amount of popularity that Bhringraj oil has gained in traditional and natural hair care practice leaves no doubt that people have found it useful. Scientific evidence of such benefits, however, is for the most part razor-thin and speculative.
Here are the benefits:
1. Improves scalp health
The oil has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties useful for treating dandruff and other scalp conditions. These increase blood circulation to and soothe the scalp.
2. Promotes hair growth
If its long history (more 600 years) of ayurvedic application is anything to go by, Bhringraj oil promotes hair growth.
It is believed to nourish the hair follicles and prevent hair loss, and now you just wish you could see some evidence of that. Well, admittedly, that is always the challenge. It’s limited.
As scanty as evidence on its benefits for humans is, though, there is research [1] to show that the oil could be more effective at increasing the number of follicles (and preventing hair loss) than the famous minoxidil.
To be fair, more human research needs to be done put forward a good case for the oil, but so far, its potential is not in doubt.
Brhingraj oil also has vitamin E, an anti-oxidant which fights free radicals that limit hair growth.
Bhringraj oil as DHT blocker
When you consider that bhringraj oil is often advertised as a potential dihydrotestosterone (DHT) blocker, however, you can’t help but wonder what the facts are.
But facts are still few on this side of the debate, only opinion is pervasive. So, we don’t know much yet. We know, however, that blocking DHT promotes hair growth and prevents hair loss. What we are admitting is that evidence supporting this claim is mixed and therefore requires further investigation.
Anyway, now that DHT seems to be hogging the discussion, won’t we say what it is? Hey, what exactly is this so-called DHT?
DHT is a hormone derived from testosterone, which can contribute to hair loss by shrinking hair follicles in individuals with genetic susceptibility.
Now you can see the link with hair loss, and what sometimes seems like mere “balihoo” around DHT, the speculations.
Why the speculations?
All the speculation around bhringjaj and DHT starts with a fact: The herb is rich in various fatty acids, sterols, and other bioactive compounds alright. But there is no evidence that it directly inhibits the enzyme 5α-reductase, which converts testosterone to DHT.
Still, a recent study showed that bhringraj extract oil has phytoconstituents with the ability to block DHT.
How to Use Bhringraj Oil for Hair Growth
Now that you know something about bhringraj oil that you probably didn’t before you got here, the next agenda is how to use it.
Should you opt for a DIY hair treatment product, you may use Bhringraj oil either as oil application or as powder.
Oil Application: Extracting bhringraj oil involves mixing and heating leaves from the bhringraj plant with a carrier oil.
To achieve scalp health and for hair growth, massage the oil into your scalp using fingertips and let it sink in for an hour. Rinse off and if the oiliness is not gone, shampoo twice.
Powder Use: If you decide to make a hair mask instead, mix bhringraj powder with water, oil, or yogurt, then apply it to your dry hair for 30 minutes or so before rinsing.
Bhringraj Oil Vs Coconut Oil for Hair Growth
For all its benefits, it is not lost on us that bhringraj oil has a whole lot of worthy competitors out there—one of them is coconut oil. So, you’re probably left sashaying between the two, wondering what to go for, for your hair needs.
Please know that we can’t fault you on the indecision, at least not when you have all sorts of claims about the “effectiveness” of the herb and the “sheer wonder” of the coconut alternative.
It can be a little confusing what to believe; we’ll grant you that. On our part, therefore, we feel that you could do with a tabulated comparison of bhringraj oil and coconut oil, zeroing in on their strengths and weaknesses.
Take a look at Table 1.
Table 1: Bhringraj Oil versus Coconut Oil
| Parameters | Bhringraj Oil | Coconut Oil |
| Strengths | Used in Ayurveda for hair growth and scalp health | Widely available and affordable |
| Contains anti-inflammatory properties that may soothe scalp irritation, & prevent dandruff | Contains lauric acid, easily absorbed by hair and scalp | |
| May help strengthen hair follicles and reduce hair fall | Provides intense moisture and helps prevent dryness | |
| Potential for promoting hair growth but lack conclusive evidence on DHT blocking (some studies) | Can tame frizz and add shine to hair | |
| Weaknesses | Can be heavier and greasier than coconut oil, unsuitable for all hair types | May not be suitable for all hair types, especially fine or protein-sensitive hair |
| Not as readily available as coconut oil | Excessive use can lead to build-up on the scalp & hair | |
| Research on specific benefits is still ongoing. | Limited evidence for benefits like hair growth or dandruff reduction. |
Table 1 has provided the general points of convergence and variation on the strengths and weaknesses of the two herbal hair treatment alternatives.
But let’s go a little deeper to look at the major differences between them. For this comparison, the focus is on the following five parameters:
- Primary purpose
- Key benefits
- Hair type suitability
- Availability
- Scientific evidence (if any) of benefits
Primary Purpose: While bhringraj oil is meant for hair growth and scalp health, coconut oil tends to be used mainly for moisturizing, shine and frizz control.
Key benefits: What will you gain from bringraj oil or coconut oil?
Bhringraj oil is well known for its anti-inflammatory properties, strengthening of the follicles and thus carries the potential for hair growth. Coconut oil, on the contrary, is deeply moisturizing, prevents dryness and adds shine to the hair.
Hair type suitability: “Water everywhere but not a drop to drink!” The saying can’t be truer for the ever-present hair-type-oil matching challenge.
It is never a carte blanche when it comes to hair product choice. Your hair type has the final say on what treatment you use on it. No more emphasis there.
Bhringraj is not suitable for all hair types. For example, it may be too heavy for fine hair. Similarly, coconut oil does not suit every type of hair, but it is especially unsuitable for fine or protein-sensitive hair.
Availability: Which one is more common? Your guess? The white summer bloom or the fruit of the sea side palms? Easy, just as bhrighraj herb is not as common as the coconut tree; so is its oil compared to its counterpart.
Scientific evidence of benefits. On this one, it is largely agreed that the hype may have travelled the world when science is still putting on its shoes. This is true of all herbal remedies whose evidence remains largely anecdotal. Still, there is emerging research, inconclusive though, that bhringraj blocks DHT.
For coconut oil, let’s just say that there is limited research on the benefits.
But if the issue is all about hair loss, inflamed scalp, or you are just being adventurous and want to try a herbal remedy, then bhringraj is a perfect companion.
Note: If you find this comparison too restrictive, and you would rather have the best of both worlds, then a combo is an option. You may use coconut oil as the base and add a few drops of bhringraj oil.
Bhringraj Oil versus Rosemary Oil for Hair Growth
This is the mother of all match-ups. You would probably think of it as a recipe for fireworks as each one heralds a whole new world of potential for hair care.
I’ll be quick about this and say that choosing between bhringraj oil and rosemary oil for hair care depends on your specific needs and hair type.
Both are popular herb-based alternatives whose benefits satisfied users continue to talk about variously on a wide range of media platforms. But hype is not a dish we would like to serve here.
So, how about we sift through the tons of praises to the bare facts?
Here’s a Table comparing the strengths and weaknesses of bhringraj oil and rosemary oil.
Table 2: Bhringraj Oil versus Rosemary Oil
| Feature | Bhringraj Oil | Rosemary Oil |
| Stregths | Traditional ayurvedic remedy for hair growth & scalp health | Widely available & relatively affordable |
| Contains anti-inflammatory properties soothe scalp irritation and get rid of dandruff | Stimulates blood circulation to the scalp, potentially promoting hair growth | |
| May strengthen hair follicles and reduce hair loss | Antibacterial and antifungal properties may help with dandruff and scalp issues. | |
| Some evidence suggests potential for promoting hair growth (evidence on DHT blocking is inconclusive) | Some studies support its effectiveness in hair growth, particularly compared to placebo. | |
| Weaknesses | Heavier & greasier than rosemary oil, not ideal for all hair types | Requires dilution with a carrier oil due to its potency |
| Less readily available & potentially more expensive | Can cause allergic reactions or skin irritation in some individuals | |
| Research on specific benefits is still ongoing | Effectiveness can vary depending on individual factors and hair type. |
Key Differences Summary
Let’s now compare the key differences based on the same key parameters used to compare bhringraj oil and coconut oil.
Primary purpose. On this feature, both brhingraj oil and rosemary oil are closely matched. They are useful for hair growth and scalp, but rosemary has a little edge on improving blood circulation.
Hair type suitability. Bhringraj oil may be heavy for fine hair, while rosemary oil usually requires diluting for most hair types.
Availability. While bhringraj oil is less readily available, rosemary oil is quite common.
Research on benefits. Research on DHT blocking potential is limited, while rosemary seems to have a relatively large amount of research on its benefits.
Potential downsides. Bhringraj oil is greasy, while rosemary tends to be heavy and requires dilution besides potentially causing irritation.
What is right for you?
You make the call!
Note:
- For dry, coarse hair in need of intense moisture, bhringraj oil might be a good option.
- For hair loss, scalp inflammation, bhringraj oil is worth exploring.
- For concerns about dandruff, blood circulation, or and more research-backed evidence for hair growth, rosemary oil is the better pick.
- If you have fine hair, rosemary oil diluted in a carrier oil might be slightly more suitable than bhringraj oil.
- A bhringraj-rosemary oil combo is always an option.
By the way, for details on rosemary oil for hair growth, you may consider Rosemary Oil: Benefits & Uses on Natural Hair.
Bhringraj Oil versus Bhrahmi Oil for Hair Growth
This section compares Bhringraj and bhrahmi. Like bhringraj, brahmi is a common herb in ayurvedic medicine. They both provide hair care benefits, but each has its unique features, as well as properties and uses.
Table 3: Comparison of Bhringraj and Brahmi
| Feature | Bhringraj | Brahmi |
| Benefits | Hair growth and scalp health | May help to reduce stress and anxiety |
| Has anti-inflammatory properties to help soothe scalp irritation & rid the hair of dandruff | ||
| Follicular formation and strengthening | ||
| Reduce hair fall | ||
| How to use | ||
| Oil | Massage oil into scalp & hair before washing | Massage it into your scalp and hair before washing |
| Powder | Mix powder with water or other liquid to form paste & apply to scalp & hair | Mix powder with water or other liquid to form paste & apply to scalp & hair |
| Capsule | Take orally as per the directions on the label | Take orally as per the directions on the label |
Going by Table 3, what will it be for you? Bhringraj or brahmi?
It’s your call!
Note:
- The best way to choose between bhringraj and brahmi is to consider your individual needs and concerns. For a natural remedy to promote hair growth and reduce hair fall, bhringraj may carry the day. To improve your memory and concentration, however, brahmi may be a good pick.
- A bhringraj-brahmi combo gives you the benefits of both herbs.
- Both bhringraj and brahmi are generally considered safe, but they may not be suitable for everyone.
- Bhringraj is generally considered to be safe. However, it is important to talk to a doctor before using it, especially if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
You may also read 14 Oils for Hair Growth and Thickness.
In summary,
Bhringraj has been used for centuries as an important part of ayurvedic medicine, particularly to treat hair loss.
As such, if it was all about anecdotes, the owner of the cosmetic store in your town would be forgiven for clearing the shelves.
The herb would be a clear alternative to everything currently on that shelf. But there is only little research to back up such a drastic action.
Still, the herb is loaded with anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidizing and antifungal properties worthy of consideration if you are seeking a nature-based option for hair growth.
If you want to go the DIY way, there are oil and powder options to consider. If you want an inside-out benefit, which is perfectly ayurvedic, then, pop a capsule; and it may be just a store away.
