In this article based on his educational video, Dr. John Watts — one of the best hair transplant surgeons in Hyderabad, with over 1,900 successful hair and beard transplants to his credit — reveals a 'top-secret oil' that he has found to improve hair growth and arrest hair fall to a good extent.
That oil is Bhringraj oil — a herbal, plant-based oil labelled the "King of Herbs" in Ayurveda literature.
What makes Bhringraj special
"This medicinal herb's properties have proven ingredients to increase hair growth and is rich in iron, calcium, magnesium, vitamin D, and vitamin E," said Dr. John Watts, who often recommends this oil to his patients.
While many brands of Bhringraj oil are available in the market, it can also be traditionally prepared at home if the herb grows nearby. "First dry the leaves for 2-3 days. Then add them to either coconut or sesame oil and expose them to sunlight for another 3 days," he explains.
How to use it for hair growth
The Ayurvedic oil is known to promote hair growth when regularly massaged on the scalp for 5-10 minutes once a day. This process activates the hair follicles and enhances blood circulation to the hair roots. Dr. Watts notes that using a proper massage technique yields better results.
Hair fall, dandruff and greying benefits
Bhringraj's properties are known to condition frizzy hair, and its mineral- and vitamin-rich profile helps check hair breakage by gradually sealing damaged strands.
The oil is also a good stress buster — massage with it is known to destress and improve mood. This helps in controlling stress-related hair loss and, in some measure, prevents baldness driven by stress.
A dry scalp often gives rise to dandruff. With its anti-inflammatory properties, Bhringraj is known to stop the scalp from getting dry and prevent dandruff formation. It also helps prevent itching and scalp psoriasis, and its anti-bacterial properties help control scalp infection.
Two ingredients found in Bhringraj oil formulations — haritaki and jatamansi — are known to prevent premature hair greying with regular use.
Benefits beyond hair
When Bhringraj oil is combined with the medicinal herb Ashwagandha, it is known to improve memory. Though not hair-related, Bhringraj leaves are also known to detoxify the liver, improve skin glow and reduce wrinkles.
The bottom line
Bhringraj oil is one of the few traditional oils Dr. Watts actively recommends — for supporting hair growth, controlling hair fall and breakage, keeping dandruff away and helping with stress. Use it as a regular scalp massage oil, but remember it is a supportive measure: if your hair loss is progressing, get it medically evaluated as well.
This article is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Consult a qualified dermatologist for diagnosis and treatment.
Frequently asked questions
What nutrients does Bhringraj oil contain?
Bhringraj is rich in iron, calcium, magnesium, vitamin D and vitamin E, which support hair growth.
How do I use Bhringraj oil for hair growth?
Massage it on the scalp for 5-10 minutes once a day. This activates hair follicles and enhances blood circulation to the hair roots.
Can Bhringraj oil be made at home?
Yes. Dry the leaves for 2-3 days, add them to coconut or sesame oil, and expose the mixture to sunlight for another 3 days.
Does Bhringraj oil help with grey hair and dandruff?
Its haritaki and jatamansi ingredients are known to prevent premature greying, and its anti-inflammatory properties help prevent dry scalp and dandruff.
