Bhringraj (False Daisy): Benefits, Uses, Side Effects

Bhringraj (false daisy), scientifically known as Eclipta prostrata or Eclipta alba, is a white flower found in moist climates such as India, Brazil, Thailand, China, and Nepal. It’s a medicinal herb traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine as a liver cleanser—for example, to reduce symptoms related to cirrhosis (liver scarring) and hepatitis (liver inflammation). It’s also used as a hair tonic in traditional beauty regimens to help treat a variety of dermatological (scalp-related) concerns.

There aren’t strong scientific studies on the effectiveness of liver detoxification, but recent studies suggest that bhringraj may contain anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial properties. One older study suggests that it may neutralize venom from rattlesnake attacks. Bhringraj might also have beneficial effects on cholesterol levels and blood pressure.

Bhringraj is generally safe to consume in moderate doses. However, certain preparations may contain heavy metals like lead, mercury, and arsenic. It’s important to ensure that your bhringraj supplement or tonic has been tested for toxicity.

One of the most widely studied benefits of bhringraj is its usage as a traditional hair tonic. According to Ayurvedic medicine, bhringraj is used to prevent hair loss. However, there is little human evidence to support this claim. False daisy does, however, contain antimicrobial and antifungal properties that may help reduce dandruff and psoriasis on the scalp.

There are traditional claims that bhringraj helps slow hair graying. The herb does contain natural darkening agents. Therefore, consistent usage may help hair appear less gray and may be suitable for those who don’t want to use traditional hair dyes to cover their gray hair.

An older clinical trial suggested that bhringraj lowered multiple types of cholesterol, including total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein (LDL), very-low-density lipoprotein (VLDL), and triglycerides (fat in the bloodstream).

LDL and VLDL are considered “bad” cholesterol, as they contribute to plaque (fatty deposits) in your arteries through high levels of cholesterol and triglycerides, respectively.

Further studies of larger populations are needed to gain insight into bhringraj’s ability to lower cholesterol levels. However, this smaller clinical trial is promising.

Some data suggest that bhringraj mildly affects blood pressure, at least among males 45-55 years old. 

In one clinical trial, 60 male participants were given two oral supplements (taken by mouth) of bhringraj powder that contained the herb’s leaf. They took a total of 500 milligrams (mg). The capsules were taken orally three times daily for 60 days in an effort to measure their effects on blood pressure.

Much more research is needed, but this clinical trial showed a lowering in blood pressure for those experiencing low levels of hypertension (high blood pressure).

Bhringraj contains the compounds coumestan, wedelolactone, and demethylwedelolactone. An older in-vitro study (conducted in laboratory dishes or test tubes) showed that Eclipta alba extracts reduced the toxicity of Crotalus durissus terrificus venom, the venom of the South American rattlesnake.

Further studies are needed to determine if bhringraj can help treat venomous snake bites. Always seek immediate medical assistance if you experience a rattlesnake bite.

Bhringraj supplements may be difficult to find, but you can find them online or in specialized health stores. You might see them in a variety of forms, including pills, capsules, liquids, or powders that you can mix with water (for ingesting) or a carrier oil (for hair use). 

Powdered bhringraj looks similar to other medicinal herbs. It is dark green and contains an earthy taste that you may want to avoid by ingesting capsules instead. You can also add bhringraj powder to smoothies or tea if desired.

For external use, you can mix a carrier oil—for example, avocado or coconut oil—with bhringraj oil or powder and use it as a conditioner or hair mask, depending on the desired results.

Dosage 

There are no guidelines on proper bhringraj dosage, and more studies are needed before making recommendations. Always speak with your healthcare provider before consuming bhringraj or using it topically.

Also, ask your provider if the recommended dosage provided by the manufacturer is right for you and your specific health needs. Some clinical trials used a dose of 500 mg.

Although there is little evidence supporting claims of toxicity, one animal study showed that mice who consumed larger amounts of bhringraj experienced liver toxicity.

Many Ayurvedic medicinal preparations may contain heavy metals like lead or mercury, and some may include arsenic.

Potential Drug Interactions

There are no proven drug interactions when taking bhringraj. However, it may lower cholesterol and blood pressure. Always consult your healthcare provider if you take medications for related health conditions, as bhringraj may affect how medications function. 

What To Look For

When purchasing bhringraj, look for specific concentrations, as they can vary. Also, look for supplements that have been third-party tested for heavy metals or other toxic chemicals, regardless of whether they are being ingested or used topically. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) doesn’t regulate supplements, so third-party testing helps ensure product quality.

Always consult with your healthcare provider before starting a new supplement.

Can You Take Too Much Bhringarj?

There are no set dosage guidelines for bhringraj, so there are no set limits on how much you can take safely. Always speak with your healthcare provider before trying any new supplements and discuss safe dosages.

There are no documented side effects of bhringraj supplementation, but consider taking smaller doses at first to see how it agrees with your system (after consulting your healthcare provider).

As with all herbs, an allergic reaction is possible. When using externally, consider applying only a small amount of bhringraj diluted in a carrier oil to a small skin area and monitoring the area for reactions.

Bhringraj (or false daisy) is a traditional Ayurvedic herb that has been used to treat and prevent a variety of health conditions over the centuries. According to small studies, these benefits may include lowering blood pressure and cholesterol levels, nourishing hair and skin health through antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, and potentially neutralizing rattlesnake venom. 

Western medicine has only just begun diving into the health benefits of Bhringraj. Always speak with your healthcare provider before starting any false daisy supplement, whether you plan to ingest it orally or use it topically.