Bhringraj, Eclipta Alba, Eclipta Prostrata - 0.5 kg Seeds

Bhringraj or false daisy (Eclipta prostrata, also called Eclipta alba) is a fast-growing annual herb of moist, low-lying ground, instantly recognised by its small white daisy-like flower heads and opposite, slightly rough leaves on sprawling, often reddish stems. It is one of the most celebrated medicinal herbs of India, known in Ayurveda as Kesharaja for its long use in hair-care oils and tonics for the liver and hair.

It grows wild across the plains of India along field margins, ditches, paddy bunds and damp wastelands, flourishing especially through the monsoon. The whole plant is harvested fresh or dried for medicinal preparations, and it is increasingly cultivated to supply the herbal and cosmetic trade.

• Family: Asteraceae
• Native region: Pan-tropical, common throughout India
• Mature height: 30-60 cm
• Growth rate: Fast

The seeds are tiny achenes, so sow them on the surface or barely cover them on a fine, moist seedbed or seed tray; no pre-treatment is needed. Keep the medium consistently damp and germination follows in about 1-2 weeks in warm, humid conditions. Sow with the onset of the monsoon and transplant or thin the seedlings to about 20 cm apart once they are established.