Ratanjot is a herb that is part of the Alkanna genus and the Boraginaceae family. This plant features blue flowers, but it is primarily the root that is used. The root is dark reddish-black and has been utilized since ancient times as a natural dye. While the fresh root has a mild smell and a bitter astringent taste, drying it renders it nearly tasteless and odorless, making it an ideal coloring agent. The root's dye is soluble in alcohol and oil but not in water.

In India, particularly in the northern regions, ratanjot serves as a natural coloring agent for various dishes. To use it, heat oil or ghee with a small amount of ratanjot until it turns a beautiful red. This coloring oil can then be used to season gravies, giving them a striking red hue.

Internationally, ratanjot is primarily employed as a dye and is prohibited as a food dye in certain countries. It is used to color vinegars, oils, inexpensive wines, and even skincare products. As a home remedy, it is applied to reduce inflammation, treat burn scars, promote hair growth, and lighten scars.

Ratanjot Benefits & Medicinal Uses:

1. Anti-Aging Properties:

   Rich in antioxidants, ratanjot has anti-aging benefits. Using antioxidant-rich substances on the skin and hair helps prevent free radical damage. Ratanjot oil, used externally in massage oils or face packs, is effective in delaying skin aging.

2. Wound Healing:

   Ratanjot is an excellent wound healer, a property it has been known for since ancient times, due to the presence of alkannins. Ointments containing ratanjot extract are available for treating burns.

3. Reduces Inflammation:

   Ratanjot possesses anti-inflammatory properties, making it beneficial for skincare. It can significantly reduce inflammation when applied topically. For instance, applying ratanjot oil to inflamed skin can offer quick relief.

4. Antimicrobial Properties:

   Traditionally, ratanjot has been effective in treating skin and scalp infections, including acne and dandruff, thanks to its antimicrobial properties. It is often mixed with coconut oil for this purpose and can also be found in creams combined with beeswax and olive oil to treat burns.

5. Antioxidant Properties:

   The herb also has antioxidant qualities, which contribute to glowing skin. Research supports ratanjot's antioxidant effects. At home, soaking ratanjot in cold-pressed, unrefined coconut oil for use as a massage oil can produce great results for the skin.

6. Anticancer Properties:

   Naphthoquinones, the main active compounds in ratanjot, have shown powerful anti-cancer properties. Specifically, alkannin and angelylalkannin, isolated from ratanjot, have been proven effective against colorectal cancer cells.

How to use Ratanjot for Hair:

Take 2-three tablespoons of Ratanjot powder and blend it with Henna powder. Divide your hair into sections and follow the paste in your hair and scalp and depart it at the least for an hour. Ratanjot has dyeing properties, and so does Henna. This is the satisfactory manner to apply Ratanjot powder for gray hair.

Also Read-BENEFITS OF RATANJOT

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