To start using bhringraj leaves for hair, you can make an oil or a hair mask, both of which are effective. Bhringraj, also known as Eclipta alba, is traditionally used in Ayurveda to tackle hair problems like thinning or excessive hair fall.
First, let’s talk about making bhringraj oil. Take a few handfuls of fresh bhringraj leaves and wash them thoroughly. Grind them into a fine paste using a little water. In a pan, heat about 200 ml of coconut or sesame oil and add the paste to it. Let this simmer on low heat until the water content evaporates and the oil turns a greenish hue. Let it cool, strain it, and store in a clean bottle. You can massage this oil into your scalp and hair about 1-2 times a week, leave it on for at least an hour, and then wash off with a mild shampoo.
Alternatively, to make a simple bhringraj hair mask, grind the fresh leaves into a paste with some water and apply it directly to your scalp and hair. Leave it on for 20-30 minutes before rinsing thoroughly. This mask can be used once a week.
As to whether bhringraj can actually help your thinning hair, it’s known to nourish the scalp, strengthen hair follicles, and promote hair growth, addressing issues related to dosha imbalances, particularly pitta-related problems that might be causing your hair fall.
After using bhringraj, it’s best to avoid over-processing your hair with heat styling or harsh chemical products. Stick to gentle, Ayurvedic or sulfate-free shampoos. Also, balancing your diet with nutrients that support hair health, like proteins and iron, alongside managing stress, can aid in your hair’s recovery.
Observing these care steps regularly should show improvement over time. However, if significant hair loss persists, consulting with a healthcare professional to rule out underlying health conditions is prudent.
