Bhringraj (Eclipta prostrata) is a low, spreading herb that grows wild along moist ground, ditches and field edges across India. It produces small daisy-like white flower heads and slender green leaves on creeping stems that root at the nodes. Revered in Ayurveda as a premier herb for hair growth, skin health and liver support, it is the key ingredient in many traditional hair oils. Bhringraj loves damp, sunny spots and grows quickly with little care, spreading into an attractive ground cover. It is an ideal, fuss-free medicinal plant for pots, herb beds and moist garden corners.
Specifications
| Family |
Asteraceae |
| Native region |
Tropical and subtropical Asia |
| Mature height |
15-40 cm |
| Mature spread |
30-60 cm |
| Growth rate |
Fast |
| Foliage |
Small lance-shaped green leaves |
| Flower colour |
White |
| Flower season |
Monsoon to winter |
| Climate zone |
Tropical to subtropical |
Care guide
| Sunlight |
Full sun to partial shade |
| Watering |
Frequent; prefers consistently moist soil |
| Soil / mix |
Moist, fertile loamy or clay soil |
| Temperature |
20-35 C ideal |
| Humidity |
High |
| Fertilizer |
Organic compost every month |
| Pruning |
Trim runners to keep tidy |
| Repotting |
Divide and replant when crowded |
| Propagation |
Stem cuttings or seeds |
| Pests & problems |
Mostly pest-free; watch for leaf miners |
| Toxicity / safety |
Non-toxic, used internally in medicine |
| Difficulty |
Very easy |
Uses
A classic Ayurvedic herb for hair oils, promoting hair growth, scalp health and greying control, and also used for liver and skin wellness. Often grown for home herbal preparations.
Growing tips
Plant in a moist, sunny spot or near a water source as it thrives in damp soil typical of the monsoon. In drier regions, water frequently and mulch to retain moisture.