As an Ayurveda enthusiast, I've always been intrigued by the healing powers of nature. However, my true love affair with the incredible bhringraj herb didn't blossom until a few years ago when I decided to grow it myself.
You see, I had been struggling with thinning hair and scalp issues for quite some time. No matter what commercial products I tried, nothing seemed to work. That's when a friend versed in Ayurvedic wisdom suggested I give bhringraj a shot.
Also known as Eclipta prostrata, this unassuming little herb has been an essential component of ancient Indian medicine for its amazing benefits for hair, skin, and liver health.
I was intrigued but sceptical - how could one plant be so powerful? Determined to find out, I decided to start growing my own bhringraj.
The Journey Begins
Being an amateur gardener, I did lots of research before taking the leap.
Here's what I learned about cultivating this herb:
Bhringraj is a small, creeping plant with pretty white flowers that thrives in warm, humid climates like India's.
Here is a step-by-step guide that I followed to grow bhringraj:
Step 1: Seed Preparation
- Soak the bhringraj seeds overnight in warm water to help break down the seed coat and encourage germination.
- Drain the excess water from the seeds before planting.
Step 2: Choosing the Right Location
- Bhringraj prefers well-draining soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0-7.5).
- The plant can be grown in the ground or in containers with adequate drainage holes.
Step 3: Preparing the Soil
- Loosen the soil to a depth of 6-8 inches and remove any debris or weeds.
- Mix in well-rotted compost or aged manure to improve soil fertility and drainage.
Step 4: Planting the Seeds
- Make shallow holes about 1/4 to 1/2 inch deep, spaced 6-8 inches apart.
- Place the soaked seeds in the furrows or holes and gently cover with soil.
- Water the soil gently after planting to moisten it.
Step 5: Watering and Maintenance
- Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged during the germination period (1-2 weeks).
- Once the seedlings emerge, water the plants when the top inch of soil feels dry.
- Apply a balanced organic fertiliser every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.
- Mulch around the plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Step 6: Thinning and Spacing
- Once the seedlings are 2-3 inches tall, thin them out to maintain a spacing of 8-10 inches between plants.
- This will ensure proper air circulation and prevent overcrowding.
A Low-Maintenance Wonder
One of the best things about growing bhringraj is how low-maintenance it is. This herb doesn't need a lot of pampering to thrive. I focus on:
- Consistent moisture - allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings
- Monthly fertilising during growing season to replenish nutrients
- Keeping an eye out for any pests or fungus, though problems are rare
- Harvesting leaves/stems nbbregularly, but never over 1/3 of the plant
Here’s a pro tip: Harvest in the morning when the essential oils are most concentrated for maximum potency.
My Hair and Skin Transformation
After harvesting my first batch of bhringraj, I couldn't wait to put it to use. From brewing hair-strengthening herbal tea to whipping up hair oils for my entire family. I experimented with so many recipes and used it in face masks too. The results? Nothing short of amazing!
Within a few months of using bhringraj, my hair felt thicker, stronger and full of beautiful lustre. My complexion cleared up and now had a gorgeous glow. Even some pesky melasma patches on my forehead started fading.
I was amazed that this single plant could work such wonders. But that's the beauty of bhringraj - it's a true gift from nature cherished for millennia by Ayurvedic practitioners for good reason.
