It has been originated in India. It is found in South East Asia and
throughout India.
Description of Eclipta alba:
It is erect, slender, roughly pubescent herbs, 30-60 cm high. Leaves are
opposite, very reliable, sessible, narrowly lanceolate, toothed or nearly
entire. Flowers are white with pappus of 2-5 minute teeth.
Appearance : Thick black liquid
Aroma : Strong aromatic odour
Color : Blackish
Chemical constituents:: Eclipta alba oil has various
chemical compounds that include Saponin, tannin, vitamin A and ecliptine.
Extraction: It is extracted by steam distillation of
leaves.
Aromatherapy uses:
It is used to treat cirrhosis, hepatitis or enlargement of spllen and the
liver. It is also useful in anaemia, skin disorders, headache, insomnia and
mental disorders. It has restorative properties that can help assist in the
treatment of premature greying of the hair, alopecia and balding. It work as
a general antiseptic and astringent oral mouth washfor infected gums and
loose teeth. It helps in maintaining and rejuvenating teeth, bones, hearing,
memory and sites.
Pharmaceutical uses:
Bhringaraj has a Keshya effect, meaning that it directly nourishes and
improves the hair. It is especially good for the liver, which is governed by
the subcategory of Pitta called Ranjaka Pitta. Ranjaka literally translates
as "that which colors", and explains the ability of Bhringaraj to
balance and improve hair color from within. By improving liver function,
Bhringaraj also helps to remove and prevent impurities (Ama) throughout the
body. Oil is excellent for scalp and foot massage, promoting healthy hair
growth and deep sleep. Roots and leaves stimulate the flow of bile into the
intestine. The root is used as an emetic and purgative (laxative). The leaf
juice is used as a liver tonic. It is believed to prevent aging, maintain
and rejuvenate hair, teeth, bones, memory, sight and hearing. It is a
rejuvenative for pitta, kidneys and liver. The root powder is used in
Ayurvedic medicine for hepatitis, enlarged spleen and skin disorders.
Cosmetics and Toiletries:
The herb is used as hair tonic, the oil removes greying, balding, makes the
hair darker. (Make hair oil by boiling leaf juice in coconut oil). The hair
blackening action of the herbs might be based, in part, on a doctrine of
signatures. The eclipta plant, when broken, exudes a blackish sticky juice.
