Eclipta prostrata
Eclipta prostrata · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (31 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Eclipta prostrata is a versatile medicinal plant widely recognized for its significant therapeutic potential in various biological activities. The leaves and seeds of this species are frequently utilized to create potent methanolic extracts for medicinal use. These preparations are rich in bioactive chemicals such as wedelolactone, oleanolic acid, apigenin, and luteolin. Such compounds contribute to its impressive antibacterial, anticancer, antioxidant, and hepatoprotective properties. Furthermore, research suggests that this plant can effectively address conditions related to obesity, blood glucose regulation, and antihyperglycemic needs.
- Synonyms
- Eclipta Alba Var. Erecta · Eclipta Flexuosa · 89 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Asteraceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Leaf · Seed
Classification
Common Names
Eclipta prostrata is a versatile plant known by a wide variety of regional names across different cultures. In many traditional circles, it is most famously recognized by the common name Bhringraj. Depending on the local dialect, it may also be referred to as yerba de tajo or clavel de pozo. Some communities further identify the species as deberebelela to distinguish its unique characteristics. Finally, it is occasionally called eclipta couché, reflecting the diverse linguistic landscape surrounding this botanical species.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Eclipta prostrata is a botanical subject that is recognized across various scientific literatures through several different names. Due to historical taxonomic shifts, this plant is frequently identified by synonyms such as Abasoloa taboada and Acmella lanceolata. It is also cataloged under the name Aganippea dentata in certain specialized studies. Furthermore, researchers may encounter this species listed as Amellus carolinianus depending on the regional classification used. Finally, the plant is sometimes referred to as Anthemis abyssinica, reflecting the complex web of its botanical identity.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Eclipta prostrata is a fascinating specimen that belongs to the vast kingdom Plantae. Within this expansive group, it is specifically classified under the class Equisetopsida. As a member of the order Asterales, it shares evolutionary ties with a diverse range of flowering species. This plant is further categorized into the genus Eclipta, which defines its unique botanical characteristics. Finally, it finds its place within the well-known family Asteraceae, making it a relative of many common garden flowers.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Eclipta |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Eclipta prostrata exhibits a wide geographical presence across several key regions, most notably throughout Africa. Its distribution extends into the Macaronesia islands, including specific reaches in both the Canary Islands and Madeira. The plant is also found within the Cape Verde archipelago, highlighting its adaptability to diverse island environments. In mainland territories, it thrives in Northeast Tropical Africa, specifically within countries like Chad and Djibouti. This broad range demonstrates the species' ability to establish itself across varied African landscapes and Atlantic island chains.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Eclipta prostrata is a self-supporting herb characterized by its distinct growth form. This plant typically reaches a maximum height of approximately 1 meter as it matures. Depending on its environmental conditions, the specimen may vary significantly in stature. While it can occasionally be found at a minimal height, it most commonly maintains a height of at least 0.67 meters. These physical dimensions help define the plant's presence within its natural habitat.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Eclipta prostrata, also known as Eclipta alba, is a highly valued medicinal herb widely utilized in traditional Ayurvedic and Unani medicine systems. Scientific research highlights its potent antibacterial properties, particularly through the isolation of specific thiophene derivatives. The plant also exhibits significant anticancer potential, with studies demonstrating its ability to target leukemia cells and induce apoptosis in breast cancer lines. Furthermore, it serves as a robust antioxidant that can mitigate oxidative stress within the brain and serum. Beyond these functions, the herb provides essential hepatoprotective and analgesic activities, making it a versatile resource for treating various ailments.
Compounds
Eclipta prostrata is a medicinal plant characterized by a diverse array of bioactive phytochemical constituents. Research indicates that the plant contains wedelolactone, a coumarin derivative that has shown significant activity against HIV-1 integrase. Furthermore, the species is rich in flavones such as luteolin and apigenin, which contribute to its various therapeutic potential, including anti-cancer and anticonvulsant effects. The plant's chemical profile also includes the steroidal alkaloid ecliptalbine and the triterpene oleanolic acid. Together, these compounds underscore the complex pharmacological importance of Eclipta prostrata in treating various ailments.
Conditions
Eclipta prostrata exhibits significant antioxidant properties by reducing oxidative stress in the brain and serum. The plant also serves as an effective treatment for obesity, specifically through the action of thiophene derivatives that enhance adipocyte thermogenesis. Its antibacterial capabilities are well-documented, providing a defense against various pathogens. Notably, the plant has demonstrated a specific ability to treat Staphylococcus aureus by inhibiting its growth. Additionally, Eclipta prostrata functions as an antihyperglycemic agent, making it useful for regulating blood glucose and managing metabolic health.
Preparations
Eclipta prostrata is prepared as methanolic extracts to study its effects on biofilm formation and disease management. This plant is also prepared as an extract to evaluate its potential as a future antibiotic. Various studies show that Eclipta prostrata is prepared as a leaf extract to explore its antioxidant and therapeutic properties. Furthermore, Eclipta prostrata is prepared as a methanolic extract for investigating its efficacy against nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. Finally, the species is prepared as a whole plant extract to isolate specific compounds for anti-HIV-1 activity.
Parts used
Eclipta prostrata is a medicinal plant recognized for its diverse biological properties and therapeutic potential. Research indicates that both the leaf and seed components of this species possess significant bioactive qualities. Specifically, extracts derived from the leaves and seeds have demonstrated complete inhibition of certain parasites in laboratory assays. These findings suggest that the plant's different parts contain potent anthelmintic compounds capable of controlling gastrointestinal nematodes. Consequently, both the leaf and seed of Eclipta prostrata serve as important subjects for developing natural alternatives in veterinary medicine.