The season of Dasapushpams auspiciously ushers in the rejuvenation phase when plants are matured and ready to bloom.
This is the time when they are potent and should be harvested systematically without disturbing the ecological balance ensured by these creations of nature.
The Bhringaraaja or Eclipta prostrata is the seventh among the ten auspicious rejuvenating and purifying groups of herbs, the Dasapushpam.
True to its name, Bhringaraaja is always as busy as a bee, trying to keep the house it enters in perfect order and working condition.
The plant belongs to the daisy and sunflower family, known popularly as the false daisy due to its flower resembling that of a daisy.
Habitat
This species commonly grows in moist places in warm temperate to tropical areas worldwide, with wide distribution throughout India, Nepal, China, and Thailand.
The plant, a common weed in marshy and wetlands, is used as a snake poison antidote in countries like China and Brazil.
The multi-branched annual creeping herb with a hairy stem and leaves grows on the fringes of tropical wet marshy lands and bears small white flowers.
Phytochemistry
The major phytochemical compounds include coumestans, polyacetylenes, polypeptides, steroids, derivatives of thiophene, flavonoids, and triterpenes
Nutritional Prowess
Bhringaraja enhances basal metabolic rate and liver metabolism, serving as a hepato-protective and blood purifier used for centuries by Ayurveda physicians to treat catarrhal jaundice.
It treats tooth infections, worm infestations, cough, cold, asthma, anaemia, inflammation, leprosy, and other infections.
As a potent rejuvenative, liver protective, and hair colorant, Bhringaraja rejuvenates deep characters and sensory powers.
Follicular Fortification
Bhringaraja, along with Neelini (Indigofera tinctoria), henna, amla, sesame, and coconut, forms a magical potion for general hair growth and nutrition.
It is called Markava, Bhringa, Bhringaraja, Angaaraka, Kesharanjana, Kesharaja, and Mahaneela due to its hair colorant properties. It is also called Sooryavarta and Pithrupriya due to its attributes attached to the cycle of the sun.
The juice of the crushed plant is jet black, resembling the complexion of a king bee, and is extensively used as a natural hair dye and remedy for grey hair. Bhringa is a bee and, Raja is king in Sanskrit.
Bhringaraja oil helps to nourish the scalp and hair, promoting healthy hair growth and preventing hair loss. It is also known for improving blood circulation in the scalp, increasing oxygen and nutrient supply to the hair follicles, leading to stronger, healthier hair.
