10/06/2026
The name of the plant says it all.
Meet Keshavardhini - literally translating to “that which grows hair.”
Botanically known as Centratherum punctatum, this cheerful little plant with its purple button-like flowers is native to Brazil but has found a place in gardens and traditional medicine systems far from its homeland. Crush a leaf or flower head between your fingers and you are greeted by an unexpected surprise… a sweet, resinous fragrance that smells remarkably like pineapple.
Across Ayurvedic and Siddha traditions, Keshavardhini has long been valued as a hair care herb. The leaves and flowers are traditionally infused in coconut oil and used as a nourishing hair tonic, believed to support scalp health, strengthen roots, reduce dandruff, and help manage premature greying. Its very name reflects the reputation it has earned over generations.
Beyond its medicinal uses, it is also a remarkably easy plant to grow. Fast-growing, hardy, and covered in vibrant purple blooms, it thrives in pots, balconies, and gardens with very little fuss, rewarding both people and pollinators alike.
Have you come across this plant growing near you? What is it called in your language? Tell us all you know about this medicinal herb in your comments.
