Karisalankanni Powder for Hair (கரிசலாங்கண்ணி): Uses and How to Apply

Know Your Herb

Karisalankanni (கரிசலாங்கண்ணி) is the Tamil name for bhringraj. In English it is sometimes called false daisy, and its botanical name is Eclipta alba.

In many Tamil homes it is known first as a keerai, and in Ayurveda and Siddha it has a long history as a hair herb. Same plant, three names, which is why searching for it gets confusing. If a pack says bhringraj, maka or karisalankanni, check for Eclipta alba on the label.

What people use it for

• Thinning hair: a regular scalp pack is the traditional use.
• Early greying: traditionally said to slow further greying.
• Scalp care: used as part of a weekly routine, often with oil.

What it will not do

It does not dye hair, and it will not turn grey hair back to its old colour. It will not regrow a bald patch either. Good research on people is limited, so treat it as a traditional hair care routine, not a treatment.

If your hair is falling suddenly or in patches, please see a doctor first. The American Academy of Dermatology has a useful page on the causes of hair loss.

How to use karisalankanni powder

Oil or water? Water gives a lighter pack that rinses out easily. Warm oil suits dry hair better, but takes more washing out.

Karisalankanni keerai or powder?

The fresh leaf is cooked or used in home remedies in some families. Our powder is sold for use on hair, so please do not eat it. If you are thinking of taking the herb for health reasons, speak to a doctor or an Ayurvedic practitioner.

What it pairs well with

Amla is the usual partner, and seeyakai is the traditional way to wash it all out. If you want colour on your greys as well, use maruthani on a separate day, because karisalankanni does not colour hair at all.

For the bigger picture, read our bhringraj guide, or see the hair fall routine that shows where each product fits.

Questions people ask