Phytopharmacology of Bhringaraaja (Eclipta alba)
Phytopharmacology of
Bhringraj/Shweta-Bhringraj/(Eclipta alba)
Introduction
Since
the time of Ayurveda till today Bhringraj (Eclipta alba) is a top-notch
herb used in hair care industry. Bhringraj (Eclipta alba) is a widely
celebrated medicinal plant, especially in India, used singly or in combination
with other herbs such as aamalaa, shikaakai for making a vast range of hair
care, hair rinse and conditioner products. Bhringraj (Eclipta alba) oil
when massaged on to the scalp; imparts a calming effect and promotes a good
sleep. [1]
Descriptions
of the medicinal properties of the herb by Arab writers are similar to those
described by their Indian counterparts. According to J.J. Wood, in hepatic
derangements Eclipta prostrata is of
greater service than Taraxacum. [2], [3]
The
Sanskrit word Bhringraj (Eclipta alba) literally means that which
imparts hair the splendid color like that of a humming bee. It has numerous
epithets describing its properties of promoting the growth of hair, preventing
balding and premature graying and making them black and lustrous. Kesharaaja, literally means king of the hair
or king for hair care, ruler of the hair, unravels its inbuilt qualities
regarding the health of the hair, Markava that which prevents premature graying
and Keshranjanaa that which imparts beautiful tinge to hair.
According
to Waagbhata, a person who consumes a fresh juice of Bhringraj (Eclipta alba)
daily for a month and stays on a diet predominantly of milk, is rejuvenated and
lives a strong, healthy and happy life of 100 years. [4], [5]
The
name of the genus Eclipta
(Ek-lip-tuh --) is derived from Greek ‘ekleipo’ meaning ‘deficient’ referring
to the absence of calyx; referring to the absence of a pappus (a modified
calyx) [6], [7]
Though
it is not described by Brihat-trayee in ganas (groups) and wargas (class), in
therapeutics it is an important herb. Charaka recommended it for raktapitta. In
Raja-Nighantu the blue Bhringraj (Eclipta alba) is extolled to be the
best (? One of the best) rasaayana (rejuvenator)
In
modern times its hepatoprotective role is well documented.[8]
Other Names
Latin Name : Eclipta alba L,Hassk; Eclipta
prostrata L,Eclipta erecta, Verbesina alba, Verbesina prostrata
Sanskrit : Kesharanjanaa, Tekaraaja,
Bhringa, Maarkawa, Bhringaja
Assamese : Bhringraj (Eclipta alba),
Kehraaj
Bengali : Bheemaraaja, Kesuriyaa,
Kesaree
Gujrati : Bhaangaro, Bhangro
Hindi :
Bhaangaraa,
Bhaangraiyaa
Kannada : Garujalu, Gurugada, Soppu, Keshawardhanaa
(Keshawardhana), Kodigaraju
Malayalam : Kayyonni,
Marathi : Bhaangaraa, Bhringraj (Eclipta
alba), Maakaa
Punjabi : Bhaangaraa
Tamil :
Karisalankanni,
Karisalai
Telugu : Guntakalagara, Guntagalagara
Urdu : Bhaangaraa
AKA False Daisy, Yerba de tago, Babri [9]
Taxonomic
classification
Kingdom: Plantae
Unranked: Angiosperm
Unranked: Eudicots
Unranked: Asterids
Division: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Asterales
Family:
Asteraceae [10]
Geographical distribution
Although the plant adapts easily to the changing
environmental conditions, it prefers clayey soil with plenty of moisture. The
seeds require good light and temperatures of 100-350 C to
germinate. Germination increases with increasing moisture content in the soil. [11]
Bhringraj
(Eclipta alba) is a creeper growing commonly in moist places. It grows
as a common weed on the hills and up to the height of 6,000 ft in the
Himalayas. Though the plant is widely distributed throughout India, it is more common in areas of upper Gangetic plains,
in pasture lands, along roadsides in Chhota Nagpur, all districts of Bihar and
Orissa, Punjab, Western India and South India. It is found in China, Thailand, Brazil and
Southwestern America. Now it is cultivated all over the world. [12]
Plant Morphology
Macroscopic Characteristics
Plant
Bhringraj (Eclipta alba)
is a moisture-loving creeper. It is an annual, erect or prostrate, much
branched, entirely pubescent (covered with hairs), rooting at the nodes. It
grows 3 feet tall. The plant flowers in September and fruits in November
According
to the colors of the flowers the herb bears; in Ayurveda three varieties of
Bhringraj (Eclipta alba) are described:
1. White (Eclipta
alba)
2. Yellow (Widelia
calendulacea)
3. Neela Bhringraj, Neeli Bhringraj (Indigofera tinctoria) [14]
Probably
this is why there are many taxonomic names. In this article the author lays
stress on E. alba. In fact Eclipta alba L. and Eclipta prostrata L. are synonyms. In their research works some
scholars preferred E. prostrata to E. alba. I have not altered their
terminology but honored it.
Although
the names Eclipta alba and Eclipta prostrata are used as synonyms
by Rechinger (1977) they are two different species.
Among
North Indian populations, three morphotypes of Eclipta alba are
identified i. e. erect, semi-erect and prostrate. The erect plants are tall and
upright while the prostrate variety has all creeping branches. The semi-erect
variety has lower parts of branches creeping and tips are ascending. [15]
Roots
Roots of the plant are well developed, cylindrical and grayish in color. A
number of secondary branches arise from main root.
Stem is short, up to about 7 mm in diameter, flat, round or cylindrical,
grayish or brown in color, rough due to hairy branches, node distinct.
Leaves
Leaves are opposite, sessile, usually oblong and lance shaped, 2.5 to
8.5 cm long, 1.2 to 2.3 cm wide,
blackish green in color with white appressed (lying flat or pressed closely
against something as hairs on certain plant stems) hairs on both sides and
serrated edges.
Flower
Flower solitary or 2, together on
unequal axillary peduncles; involucral bracts (inflorescence in a specialized leaf), about 8, ovate, obtuse or acute, herbaceous, strigose (having short,
stiff, appressed hair); white disc flowers tubular, corolla often 4 toothed;
stamen 5, filaments epipetalous, free, anthers united into a tube; ovary
inferior, unilocular with one basal ovule.
Fruit
Fruit is achene (a type of simple dry fruit) compressed, narrowly winged and
6-8 mm in diameter, having one black colored seed.
Seed
Seed
0.2 to 0.25 cm long, 0.1 cm wide,
dark brown or black in color, resembling cumin seeds, cuneate (wedge shaped)
with a narrow wing, hairy and non endospermic. [16],
[17]
Microscopic
Characteristics
Root- Mature root show poorly developed cork,
consisting of 3-5 rows of thin-walled, tangentially elongated cells; secondary
cortex consists of outer one or two rows of tangentially elongated or rounded
cells with air cavities, inner secondary cortex of tangentially elongated or
irregular shaped, parenchymatous cells with conspicuous air cavities; stone
cells found scattered in secondary cortex and cork, in singles or in groups of
various shape and size; pericyclic
fibers in tangentially arranged bands of many cells or in singles; secondary
phloem consists of sieve elements including phloem fibers traversed by
multiseriate phloem rays; phloem rays broader towards periphery, consisting of
rounded cells; xylem composed of vessels, fiber tracheids, fibers and xylem
parenchyma, traversed by xylem rays; vessels numerous, found scattered
throughout wood, in macerated preparation vessels small, drum-shaped,
cylindrical elongated with pitted walls and perforations, simple, rarely slightly
oblique; fiber tracheids, pitted, with very pointed tips, xylem fibers long
with pointed tapering ends and short lumen, a few fibers show peg-like
outgrowths towards the tapering ends; xylem parenchyma sparse usually squarish
to rectangular having simple pits on their walls, xylem ray distinct, run
straight in tangential section, generally 5-32 cells in height and 3-5 cells in
width although very rarely uniseriate and biseriate rays also found, ray cells
pitted.
Stem- Mature stem shows single layered epidermis,
externally covered with cuticle, a few epidermal cells elongate to form
characteristic non-glandular trichomes, the cork where formed, poorly developed
consisting of rectangular cells;
secondary cortex consists of large, rounded or irregular shaped parenchymatous
cells having wide air spaces; endodermis single layered consists of
tangentially cells; pericyclic fibers distinct, arranged in tangential strands;
vascular bundles in a ring, collateral, endarch (xylem whose early development
is towards the center), of varying sizes traversed by medullary rays; phloem a
narrow strip composed of sieve elements and phloem parenchyma; xylem consists
of large number of vessels, xylem fibers and xylem parenchyma; xylem vessels
appear evenly distributed throughout the xylem; in macerated preparation
vessels barrel-shaped, some elongated with simple perforations, pitted with
spiral thickening; xylem fibers with wide lumen, pointed tips and pitted walls,
a few often bifurcate and a few other large, peg-like outgrowth; xylem
parenchyma rectangular with pitted thickening; xylem rays trirseriate to
pentaseriate, normally biseriate and uniseriate, 8-15 cells in height and 3-5
cells in width; centre occupied by a wide pith consisting of isodiametric cells
of parenchyma.
Leaf- Petiole- shows single layered upper and lower
epidermis consisting of tubular cells, covered with striated cuticle; trichomes
of two types, non-glandular, uniseriate, 1-5 celled, warty, and with pointed
apical cell; epidermis followed by wide cortex, consisting of 2-5 layered
collenchymas on both, upper arid lower side with distinct angular thickening;
parenchyma 4-6 layered on upper side and 5-8 layered on lower side consisting
of isodiametric, thin-walled cells with intercellular spaces; five vascular
bundles central one largest while four others small flanking to either side of
central bundle, consists of xylem on dorsal side and phloem on ventral side;
xylem vessels arranged in radial rows traversed by xylem rays.
Midrib- cut at basal region shows both upper and lower
single layered epidermis, externally covered with cuticle, a few epidermal
cells elongate outwards to form uniseriate hairs; epidermis followed by cortex,
consisting of 3-5 layered 22 collenchymatous cells on both sides; section cut
at middle region shows 3-4 layered collenchymatous cells on dorsal and 1-3
layered on ventral side, while the section cut at apical region, shows 2
layered collenchymatous cells on both sides, transverse section cut at a basal,
middle and apical regions shows 4-6 layered parenchymatous cells on dorsal side
and 6-9 layered parenchyma on ventral side, in section cut at basal region 4-6
layered parenchyma on both the sides in the middle region with thin-walled
cells and intercellular spaces, 2-3 layered parenchymatous cells on both side
in the apical region; section in the basal region shows vascular bundle similar
to that of petiole while in the section cut at middle and apical region shows 4
smaller bundles shifting towards lamina.
Lamina-
shows a dorsi-ventral structure, epidermis single layered, externally covered
with cuticle, followed by single layered palisade parenchyma containing
chlorophyll contents; spongy parenchyma irregularly arranged with distinct
intercellular spaces and filled with chlorophyll contents; mesophyll traversed
by number of veins; anisocytic (of unequal size) and anomocytic stomata (
irregular cell type stomata) present on both surface, more abundant on lower
surfaces; stromal index 20.0- 22.5 on upper and 23.5-26.0 on lower surface;
palisade ratio 3.8-4.5; hairs stiff, pointed, wide at the base, about 3 celled,
uniseriate, middle cells longest, uppermost generally not exceeding the basal
cell length, septa thick-walled.
Powder- dark
green; shows vessels in large groups or single broken pieces with pitted walls,
numerous fibers entire or in pieces, trichomes entire or in pieces, warty, a
few attached with epidermal or subsidiary cells, aniscytic or anomocytic
stomata. [18]
Parts Used
Leaves, roots, seeds and entire plant
Phytochemistry
The
plant extract is resinous in nature and contains the alkaloid ecliptine. The
herb is a rich source of ascorbic acid and thiophene derivatives.
The
chief constituents of the herb are coumestan derivatives such as wedelolactone,
demethylwedelolactone and desmethyl-wedelolactone-7glucoside. Wedelolactone is
classified as a coumestan. Coumestan is a derivative of coumarin.
Because of the estrogenic and steroid-like activity of some coumestans, a
variety of synthetic coumestans have been developed so as to explore their
pharmacological effects.
The
other constituents are ecliptal, α and ß-amyrin, luteolin-7-O-glucoside,
apigenin, wedelic acid, hentriacontanol, heptacosanol, stigmasterol,
polypeptides, polyacetylenes, thiophene-derivatives, steroids, triterpenes and
flavonoids, alkaloid ecliptine and nicotine.
The
occurrence of mono-, di- and tri- thiophene acetylenes together with
a-terthenyl in some species is noteworthy.
The chemical constituents of various parts of the
plant
|
Roots
|
Thiophene acetylenes, Hentriacontanol, Heptacosanol,
Stigmasterol, Ecliptal, Eclalbatin
|
|
Stems
|
Wedelolactone
|
|
Leaves
|
Rich in protein,
Wedelolactone, Desmethylwedelolactone,
Desmethyl-wedelolactone-7-glucoside, Stigmasterol
|
|
Seed
|
Sterols,
Ecliptalbine
|
|
Aerial parts
|
P-amyrin &
Luteolin-7-O-glucoside, Wedelolactone, Apigenin, Cinnaroside, Sulphur
compounds, Eclalbasaponins I-VI, Trithienyl aldehyde, Ecliptal, Stigmasterol,
ß-Sitosterol, and Volatile Oils.
|
|
Whole plant
|
Resin,
Ecliptine, Reducing sugar, Nicotine, Nicotinic acid, Stigmasterol, Triterpene
saponin, Eclalbatin, Ursolic acid, Oleanolic acid.
|
Recently isolated chemicals:
The
polypeptides isolated from the plant yield cystine, glutamic acid,
phenylalanine, tyrosine and methionine on hydrolysis.
From
the dried whole plant, in 1994, Yahara et al, isolated new oleanane
tritriterpene glycosides named Eclalbasaponins I-IV; in 1997 they isolated new
taraxastane triterpene glycisides named Eclalbasaponins VII-X. In 2001Zao et al
isolated triterpenoid saponins named Eclabasaponins XI and XII and in the same
year Upadhyay et al isolated Eclabatin and α-amyrin. [19], [20], [21]
Classification of chemical ingredients
|
Triterpenes
|
Eclabalbatin, Ecliptasaponins A-B-C and D,
Eclalbasaponins I-XII, Oleanolic acid, α-amyrin, β-amyrin, Ursolic acid,
Wedelic acid.
|
|
Coumarins
|
Wedelolactone, Dimethylwedelolactone 7-glucoside,
Nor-wedelolactone, Demethylwedelolactone, Isodemethylwedelolactone
.
|
|
Alkaloids
|
Ecliptine, Nicotine, Steroidal Alkaloids.
|
|
Sterols
|
β- glucoside Daucosterol, Stigmasterol-3-O-glucoside,
Stigmasterol, β-sitosterol
|
|
Hydrocarbons
|
Dithienylacetylene ester, Ecliptal,
α-terthienyl-methanol, Heptacosanol, Hentriacontanol.
|
|
Flavonoids
|
Apigenin, Leuteolin, leuteolin-7-glucoside
|
|
Steroids
|
Diosgenin, Tigogenin, Lansosterol,
|
|
Thiopenes
|
Polyacetylenic thiopenes
|
|
Miscellaneous
|
Nonacosanol, Stearic acid, Lacceroic acid, α-terthienyl
3,4-dihydroxy benzoic acid.
|
Triterpenes: Eclabalbatin,
Ecliptasaponins A-B-C and D, Eclalbasaponins I-XII, Oleanolic acid, α-amyrin,
β-amyrin, Ursolic acid, Wedelic acid.
Coumarins:
Wedelolactone, Dimethylwedelolactone
7-glucoside, Nor-wedelolactone, Demethylwedelolactone,
Isodemethylwedelolactone.
Alkaloids:
Ecliptine, Nicotine, Steroidal
Alkaloids.
Sterols:
β- glucoside Daucosterol,
Stigmasterol-3-O-glucoside, Stigmasterol, β-sitosterol.
Hydrocarbons:
Dithienylacetylene ester, Ecliptal,
α-terthienyl-methanol, Heptacosanol, Hentriacontanol.
Flavonoids:
Apigenin, Leuteolin,
leuteolin-7-glucoside
Steroids:
Diosgenin, Tigogenin, Lansosterol,
Thiopenes:
Polyacetylenic thiopenes
Miscellaneous:
Nonacosanol, Stearic acid, Lacceroic
acid, α-terthienyl 3,4-dihydroxy benzoic acid. [22]
Identity,
Purity and Strength Tests
Foreign matter:
Not more than 2 %
Total ash: Not
more than 22 %
Acid-insoluble ash: Not more than 11%
Alcohol-soluble extractive: Not less than 5 %
Water-soluble extractive: Not less than 15 % [23]
(2) Standards accepted by I.P in 2010
Tests Foreign organic matter: Not more than 2 .0 %.
Ethanol-soluble extractive: Not less than 5.0 %
Water- soluble extractive: Not less than 15.0 %
Total Ash: Not
more than 22%.
Acid-insoluble ash: Not more than 11%
Heavy metals:
1.0 g complies with the limit test for heavy metals.
Loss on drying:
Not more than 15.0%,
determined on 5 g by drying in an oven at 105º.
Microbial contamination: Complies with the microbial contamination tests.
Assay--
Determine by liquid chromatography [24]
(3)
Identity, Purity and strength (as per international guidelines)
Foreign
matter: Not more than 2 percent
Total Ash: Not more than 10 percent
Acid-insoluble
Ash: Not more than 1.5 percent
Sulfated
ash: Not more than 20 percent
Alcohol-soluble
extractive: Not more than 4 percent
Water
soluble extractive: Not less than 8
percent
Loss on
drying: Not more than 14 percent [25], [26]
Heavy Metal Analysis (as per
international guidelines)
Element Permissible Limits
Arsenic: Not more than 5 to 10 mg/kg
Cadmium: Not more than 0.03mg/kg
Lead: Not more than 5 to 10 mg/kg
Mercury:
Not more than 0.5 mg/kg
Chromium: Not more than 0.3 mg/kg
[27], [28]
Permissible Microbial Load (as per
international guidelines)
Microbial
Limits:
Total bacterial count: Not more than 105cfu/g
Total yeast and mould count: Not more than 104cfu/g
Bile tolerant gram negative bacteria: Not more than 104cfu/g [29], [30]
Specific
Pathogens: (as per international guidelines)
Salmonella species: Absent in 25 g /none
Escherichia coli: Absent in 1g / maximum 102 to 104
per gram
Staphylococcus aureus: Absent in 1g
Pseudomonas aeruginosa: Absent
in 1g
Shigella
species:
Enterobacter
species: maximum 104
per gram
Other
enterobacteria: maximum 103
per gram
Aerobic
bacteria: maximum 105
to 107 per gram
Mould
propagules: maximum 103
to 105 per gram
Yeasts
and Mould: maximum 103
to 104 per gram [31],
[32]
Aflatoxins (as per international guidelines)
Aflatoxin
B1, Aflatoxin B2, Aflatoxin G1, Aflatoxin G2
Preferably Aflatoxins should be below detectable limits (BLD) [33],
[34]
Pesticide residues (as per
international guidelines)
In recent times various pesticides are used to protect and preserve the
food and medicinal values of plants.
To avoid toxicity of herbal medicine, International Society for
Standardization of Drugs and World Health Organization (WHO) have laid the
guidelines for permissible levels of pesticides in herbal medicines.
In general, the pesticide contamination in any herbal medicine should
be less than 1 percent of total intake from all sources, including food
and drinking water.
Aldrin and dieldrin are broad spectrum pesticides
commonly used in agriculture. The recommended maximum limit of these pesticides
is Not more than 0.05 mg/kg. [35],
[36]
Radioactive residues (as per
international guidelines)
A certain amount of exposure to ionizing radiation of plants cannot be
avoided since there are many sources, including radionuclides occurring
naturally in the ground and the atmosphere.
The World Health Organization (WHO), in close collaboration with
several international organizations, has developed guidelines for permissible
and acceptable limits for radioactive residues in herbal medicines.
The amount of radiation in plants depends on intake of radionuclides.
Significant risk is associated only with consumption of quantities over 20 kg
of plant material per year so that the risk to health is most unlikely to be
encountered given the amount of medicinal plant materials need to be ingested.
Additionally, the level of contamination might be reduced during the
manufacturing process. Therefore World Health Organization (WHO) has not
proposed strict limits regarding the acceptability for radioactive
contamination. [37]
TLC Pattern
Petroleum ether extract: Solvant system: Tolune: Acetone: Formic Acid
(9:6:1) Rf value (Rf x 100) yellow (70), Spraying system: Iodine vapour: Yellow
Rf value 90
Acetone extract: Solvent system: Tolune: Acetone:
Formic Acid (9:6:1), Rf value (Rf x 100) 68( Light brown), 58 (Violet), 42
(Brown), Spraying system: Iodine vapour: Rf value (Rf x 100) 68( Light brown),
58 (Violet), 42 (Brown)
Alcoholic extract: Solvent system: Tolune: Acetone:
Formic Acid (9:6:1), Rf value (Rf x 100) 35(Light brown), 60 (Violet), 90
(Brown), Spraying system: Iodine vapour: Rf value (Rf x 100) 35(Light brown),
60 (Violet), 90 (Brown)
Methanolic extract: Solvent system: Tolune: Acetone:
Formic Acid (9:6:1), Rf value (Rf x 100) 10, (Green), 15 (Green), 20 (Green),
60 (Green), 90 (Green), Spraying system: Day light: Rf value (Rf x 100)
10(Green), 20 (Green), 60 (Green), 90 (Green) [38]
Cytological Identity
32 Chromosome counts in Eclipta alba (L) Hassk
[39]
Genetic study
Recently Yadav et al have developed RAPD-based SCAR
markers to identify accurately the species: Eclipta alba [40]
With the help of molecular techniques like Random
Amplified Polymorphic DNA (RAPD), Amplified Fragment Length Polymorphic DNA
(AFLP), Restricted Length Polymorphic DNA (RFLP) and Inter Simple Sequence
Repeat (ISSR) etc the identification of plant species has now become very
accurate. [41]
TLC identification
Botanists have done High Performance Thin Layer
chromatographic identification of E. alba. [42]
Properties
and Pharmacology
Ayurvedic properties
Ganas (Classical
Categories) and Wargas
Charak Ganas
|
None
|
Sushruta Ganas
|
None
|
Dhanvantari Nighantu
|
Karaweeraadi Warg
|
Shodala Nighantu
|
Karaweeraadi Warg
|
Bhaawaprakaash Nighantu
|
Guduchyaadi Warg
|
Raaja Nighantu
|
Moolakaadi Warg
|
Shaaligraama Nighantu
|
Guduchyaadi Warg
|
Aadarsha Nighantu
|
Sahadewyaadi Warg
|
Charaka Ganas: None
Sushruta+Ganas:
None
Dhanvantari Nighantu: Karaweeraadi Warga
Shodala Nighantu: Karaweeraadi Warga
Bhaawaprakaasha Nighantu: Guduchyaadi Warga
Raja Nighantu:
Moolakaadi Warga
Shaaligraama Nighantu: Guduchyaadi Warga
Aadarsha Nighantu: Sahadewyaadi Warga [43]
Energetics
Rasa (Taste)
|
Katu (Acrid, Spicy, Pungent,
Piquant)
|
Virya (Energy State)
|
Ushna (Hot)
|
Wipaaka
|
Katu (acrid, Spicy, Pungent)
|
Praabhaav
|
None
|
Rasa (Taste): Katu (Acrid, Spicy, Pungent, Piquant), Tikta (Bitter)
Weerya/Virya: (Energy
State): Ushna (hot)
Wipaaka (End
result, Post digestive effect): Katu (Acrid, Spicy, Pungent)
Prabhaawa: (Special quality): None
Gunas (Qualities):
Rooksha (Dry), Laghu
(Light), Teekshna (Penetrating)
Effects on Doshas:
Kapha- Waata shaamaka
Actions on Dhatus and Srotasas
Actions
on Dhaatus
|
Rasa
(Lymph), Rakta (Blood), Asthi (Bone), Majjaa (Bone marrow), Shukra (Semen)
|
Actions
on Srotasas (Systems)
|
Rasawaha
(Lymphatic System), Raktawaha (Hematopoetic System), Annawaha (GI
System),
Majjaawaha (Bone marrow), Mootrawaha (Urinary System), Shukrawaha (Male
Reproductive System)
|
Actions on Dhaatus (Tissues):
Rasa (Lymph), Rakta
(Blood), Asthi (Bones), Majjaa (Bone marrow), Shukra (Semen)
Actions on Srotas (Systems):
Rasawaha (Lymphatic
System), Raktawaha (Hematopoetic System), Annawaha (GI System), Majjaawaha
(Bone marrow), Mootrawaha (Urinary System), Shukrawaha (Male Reproductive
System)
|
Aamahara
|
Eradicates
free radicles
|
|
Balya
|
Imparting
Strength
|
|
Chakshushya
|
Beneficial
to eyes
|
|
Deepana
|
Appetizer
|
|
Dantya
|
Beneficial
to teeth
|
|
Kaphahara/Kaphashaamaka
|
Expectorant,
Reduces phlegm
|
|
Keshya
|
Beneficial
for hair
|
|
Kushthaghna
|
Anti-leprotic
|
|
Medhya
|
Nootropic,
Memory and intelligence enhancer
|
|
Paachana
|
Digestive
or Digestant
|
|
Rasaayana
|
Rejuvenator
or Adaptogen
|
|
Twachya
|
Beneficial
to skin
|
|
Waataanulomana
|
Carminative,
Prokinetic
|
|
Yakriduttejaka
|
Stimulates
Liver functions
|
Aamhara: Eradicates free radicals
Balya: Imparting
strength
Chakshushya:
Beneficial to eyes
Deepana:
Appetizer
Dantya:
Beneficial
to teeth
Kaphahara/
Kaphashaamaka: Expectorant, Reduces
phlegm
Keshya:
Benificial for hair
Kushthaghna: Antileprotic
Medhya/Medhawardhak:
Nootropic (Promotes intelligence)
Paachana:
Digestive
(Digestant)
Rasaayana:
Rejuvenator, Adaptogen
Twachya:
Beneficial
to the skin
Waataanulomana: Prokinetic, Carminative
Yakriduttejaka:
Stimulates
the functions of the liver [44], [45]
|
Deepana
|
Appetizer
|
|
Paachana
|
Digestive
|
|
Dantya
|
Beneficial for teeth
|
|
Keshya
|
Beneficial for hair
|
|
Kushtaghna
|
Allays skin disorders
|
|
Medhya
|
Beneficial for intellectual functions
|
|
Pandughna
|
Anti-anemic
|
|
Raktaprasaadaka
|
Improves the quality of blood
|
|
Rasaayana
|
Rejuvenator
|
|
Twachya
|
Beneficial for skin
|
|
Yakritottejaka
|
Stimulates liver functions
|
Deepana:
Appetizer
Paachana: Digestive
Dantya: Beneficial for teeth
Keshya: Beneficial for hair
Kushtaghna: Allays skin disorders
Medhya:
Beneficial for intellectual function
Pandughna:
Anti-anemic
Raktaprasaadaka:
Improves the quality of blood
Rasaayana: Rejuvenator
Twachya:
Beneficial for skin
Yakritottejaka:
Stimulates liver function [46]
|
Akshirogahrit
|
Allays ophthalmic disorders
|
|
Kaasahara
|
Antitussive (Fresh juice is antitussive)
|
|
Shwaasahara
|
Antiasthmatic
|
|
Krimihara
|
Anthelmintic
|
|
Shophahara
|
Antiinflammatory
|
|
Shiro-aartinut
|
Relieves headache
|
|
Wishghna
|
Antidote for toxins and poison
|
Akshirogahrit:
Allays ophthalmic disorders
Kaasahara: Antitussive (Fresh juice is antitussive)
Shwaasahara: Antiasthmatic
Krimihara:
Anthelmintic
Shophahara:
Antiinflammatory
Shiro-aartinut:
Relieves headache
Wishghna:
Antidote for toxins and poisons [47]
In
Ayurveda Bhringraj (Eclipta alba) is said to be astringent and styptic,
benevolent to body tissues, blood, alterative, antipyretic, cholagogue,
hepatoprotective, laxative, nervine tonic, adaptogenic, and vulnerary.
Modern View
According
to modern science it has anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antioxidant,
antibacterial, antiviral, antileprotic, anthelmintic (ovicidal), antimyotoxic,
styptic, hepatoprotective, spasmogenic, hypotensive and anticancer properties.
E. alba plant is a rich source of thiophene derivatives which
are active against nematodes. Its roots are emetic and purgative.
The
herb is cardio-depressant when used for hepatic congestion. It gives
symptomatic relief in gastralgia, nausea and vomiting in patients suffering
from acid peptic disease
Coumestans
possess estrogenic activity [48], [49]
Wedelolactone
Molecular formula: C16H10O7
Structural formula:
[50]
Wedelolactone (WDL) belongs to the flavonoids category
of phytoestrogens. It was originally extracted from Eclipta alba (Eclipta
prostrata). Later extracted from Wedelia chinensi, is a major
coumestan ingredient of the herb.
In one study wedelolactone has been shown to inhibit
caspase-11 which is a key regulator of proinflammatory cytokine IL-1Beta
maturation and pathological apoptosis. It also inhibits IKKy, a kinase that
activates NF-kB. Wedelolactone showed antihepato-toxic
activity protecting cultured liver cells from the toxicity of CCl4, Phalloidin
and Galactosamine. Wedelolactone inhibits 5-LO (lipoxygenase) activity in
porcine leucocytosis. [51]
Previous findings that wedelolactone inhibited IKK
activity and caspase-11 expression which resulted in the activation of NF-kB
pathway suggested that wedelolactone could be a potential lead compound in
anti-inflammatory therapy. However according to some experts the mechanism of
anti-inflammatory activity of wedelolactone is unclear
Previous studies have shown that wedelolactone has
antihepatotoxic, antiandrogenic and anti- human immunodeficiency activities. In
China it has been in vogue to treat septic shock, viral hepatitis and venom
poisoning. [52]
Wedelolactone is a potent and selective inhibitor of
5-lipoxygenase an inflammatory chemical, via extremely aggressive oxygen free
radical scavenging.
Wedelolactone and demethylwedelolactone exhibit
hepatoprotective activity in carbontetrachloride, galactosamine and phalloidin
induced liver damage.
Saxena AK et al reported hepatoprotective effect of
ethanol/water (1:1) extract of Eclipta alba (part of the plant used is
not mentioned) against carbontetrachloride-induced hepatotoxicity. The extract
significantly restored alkaline phosphatase levels. [53]
In Punjab and Gujarat, India Bhringraj (Eclipta
alba) has been used externally as antiseptic to treat infected wounds and ulcers
in cattle and to treat many microbial infections in rural areas of India. The
results of recent studies revealed that wedelolactone may be the main
constituent in Bhringraj (Eclipta
alba) responsible for antimicrobial activity of the herb. Studies have also
shown that wedelolactone has anti-bacterial, anti-viral and anti-fungal
activity. Wedelolactone showed antibacterial activity against S.
typhimurium, S. epidermidis, B. subtilis and E. coli. [54]
Wedelolactone induces capsase-dependent apoptosis in
prostate cancer cells. [55]
The coumestan wedelolactone inhibits
lipopolysachharide-induced proinflammation via NF-kappa B pathway. This anti
inflammatory activity of wedelolactone is useful for the treatment of NAFLD.
[56]
Triterpenes:
Triterpenes are a group of saponin compounds. They
found in abundance in various plant species. [57]
Eclipta-saponins show Leishmanicidal activity.
[58]
Oleanolic
acid
Molecular
formula: C30H48O3
Structural
formula:
Oleanolic
acid is a naturally occurring triterpenoid widely distributed in food and
medicinal plants. It exhibits antiviral, hepatoprotective and anti tumor
properties. [59]
Amyrins
Molecular
formula: C30H50O
Structural
formula:
α Amyrin β
Amyrin
Amyrins
are a pair of closely related triterpenes. They are designated as α Amyrin and
β Amyrin. Each has the chemical formula C30H50O. They are
isolated from a variety of plant sources. [60]
Amyrins
exhibit anti nociceptive property. [61]
In
mice 500mg/kg acetaminophen caused fulminant liver damage. Pre-treatment with α
and β Amyrins with 50 and 100 mg/kg at 48, 24and 2 hours before acetaminophen,
attenuated acute liver injury as was proved by biochemical and
histopathological studies. [62]
Animals pre-treated with the oral dose of 50, 100 and
200 mg/kg of α and β Amyrins block histamine and serotonin receptors and
relieve itching. In addition α and β Amyrins at the dose of 100mg/kg prevent
degranulation of mast cells and are now known as mast cell stabilizers. Amyrins
do not show sedative activity. These properties of Amyrins found in Bhringraj
(Eclipta alba) (E. alba) can be exploited to treat pruritus associated
with jaundice. These actions are due to the stabilizing action of Amyrins on
the mast cell membrane. [63]
Ursolic
acid
Molecular
formula: C30H48O3
Ursolic
acid is a pentacyclic triterpenoid. It is present in many medicinal plants such
as Bhringraj (E. alba), basils, apples, cranberries etc. In vitro
by inhibiting the STAT3 activation pathway and inducing apoptosis, ursolic acid
inhibits the proliferation of various cancer cells. Ursolic acid also inhibits
JNK expression and IL-2activation of JURKAT leukemic T cells leading to the
reduction in proliferation and T cell activation.
Ursolic
acid can serve as a starting material for synthesis of more potent bioactive
derivatives such as experimental antitumor agents. [64]
Ursolic
acid increases the amount of muscle and brown fat and decrease white fat. By
increasing Akt activity in skeletal muscle it inhibits muscle atrophy and
promotes muscle growth. Consistent with increased skeletal muscle and brown
fat, ursolic acid increases energy expenditure, improves glucose tolerance and
decreases fatty liver disease. Thus it is useful in the treatment of obesity.
[65]
To take the advantage of these
activities Korean sport scientists advise the athletes to consume 450mg of
ursolic acid every day. The study of the use of ursolic acid by athletes is
recorded in the Korean Journal of Physiology and Pharmacology. [66]
In experimental studies ursolic acid has been shown to
target cell cycle proteins, growth factors, kinases, cytokines, chemokines,
adhesion molecules and inflammatory enzymes. These targets can potentially
mediate the chemopreventive and therapeutic effects. [67]
By inducing cell cycle arrest and apoptosis ursolic
acid exhibits anticancer effects in various human cancer cell lines in vitro,
especially in gall bladder cancer. [68]
Sterols:
β-
glucoside Daucosterol
Molecular
formula: C35H60O6
Structural
formula:
[69]
Sigmasterol
is also known as Wulzen anti-stiffness factor. It plays an important role in
the tissue rebuilding mechanisms. It acts as an intermediate in the
biosynthesis of androgens. It is also used as the precursor of Vitamin D3.
It is also most commonly abused as anabolic steroid in sports. [71]
Some
testimonials from modern research
Antioxidant
activity
When fed at 50mg/kg and
100mg/kg orally to Charles River Sprague-Dawley CD rats, Eclipta prostrata
showed a significant free radical scavenging antioxidant activity. [72]
Anti-inflammatory
activity
Methanol extract of E.
alba (Linn.) administered orally at 100mg/kg and 200mg/kg doses to albino
Wistar rats showed a significant anti-inflammatory activity in carrageenin and
egg white induced hind paw edema. [73], [74]
Immunomodulatory
activity
Methanol extract of E.
alba (1.6% wedelolactone) at doses of 100 to 500 mg/kg significantly
increased phagocytic index and antibody titer. The aqueous extract of E.
alba at 0.01or 0.1 % was fed as a diet to fish for 3 weeks. The results
showed that nonspecific humoral and cellular immunity increased. [75]
Antimicrobial Activity
The
wedelolactone contained in E.
alba shows antibacterial action against Staphylococcus
aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis (at concentration of 15.0 μg /ml), Salmonella
typhimurium (at the concentration of
25.0
μg /ml) and E. coli. [76], [77], [78]
Bhringraj (Eclipta alba) strongly
inhibits RNA polymerase activity of HCV replicase in vitro. This
activity is attributed to wedelolactone, luteolin and apigenin present in E.
alba. These compounds exhibit dose dependent inhibition. [79]
Actions on GI System
E. alba significantly reduces the gastric acid secretion,
occurrence of gastritis and gastric ulcers and gastric inflammation. Its
potency as anti-ulcer agent is comparable to that of various PPIs. [80]
Hepatoprotective Activity
CCl4
inflicts insult on the liver. The parenchyma undergoes fatty degeneration
culminating into cirrhosis and death. CCl4 inhibits the hepatic
microsomal drug metabolizing enzymes. In experimental animals the ethanol-water
(1:1) extract of E. alba (part of the plant used is not mentioned)
significantly restored the loss of hepatic lysosomal acid phosphatase and
alkaline phosphatase caused by CCl4. [81]
In
another study the ethanolic extract of leaves of E. alba and seeds of Piper
longum (50mg/kg body weight) was administered orally once a day for
fourteen days. All the biochemical markers of the liver function were restored
to normal levels. The triterpenoid eclabasaponin fraction contained in the
methanolic extract of the leaves restored the liver functions to normal levels.
The coumestan fraction and triterpenoidal saponin fraction contained in the
chloroform extract of roots very significantly reduced CCL4 induced
increase in lysosomal enzyme levels in the blood. [82]
Treatment
with 50% ethanol extract of E. alba
protected guinea pigs against mortality from CCl4 induced liver
damage.
Histologically
to some extent there is reversal of fatty change. The elevated serum
transaminases are restored to near normal levels. Hepatoprotective effects of E. alba have also been reported in
rabbits.
In yet another laboratory experiment on
mice, Tabassum & Agrawal used 50% E.
alba extract at doses of 100 and 250 mg/ 100g body weight for prevention
and treatment of paracetamol induced liver damage. Histological studies showed
marked reduction in hepatocellular necrosis and fatty change in hepatocytes;
and reduction in the levels of elevated serum transaminases in those who had
liver damage.
The
patients of viral hepatitis when treated with E. alba show marked clinical improvement.
The
alcoholic extract of E. alba shows
antiviral activity against Ranikhet disease virus. [83]
Two studies by Dixit and Achar (1979 and
1981) reported efficacy of E. alba
for the treatment of jaundice due to viral hepatitis in adults and in children.
[84], [85]
In
my opinion E. alba, Piper longum
(Pippalee), Picrorhiza kurroa
(Kutakee), Phyllanthus niruri / Phyllanthus amarus (Bhoomyaamalakee,
Bhui Aamalaa) and many other
hepatoprotective drugs from plant kingdom should be tried either singly or in
combinations in patients with hepatitis B and C infections, alcoholic liver
disease, NASH, cirrhosis of the liver etc.
The
other species E. prostrata is also
hepatoprotectant. In rats the alcoholic extract of aerial parts of this plant
(Dose: 62.5 to 500mg/kg) restored the liver functions to normal following CCl4
induced liver injury. When administered orally or intraperitoneally the extract
did not show toxicity. In mice the lethal dose was greater than 2g/kg.
Stigmasterol
and alpha-terthenyl are hepatoprotectants.
Researchers
from Chandigarh, India have reported Eclipta alba to be effective in
converting the HbsAg positive patients to HbsAg negative. [86], 87]
In
another Indian study Eclipta alba extract and its isolates;
wedelolactone, luteolin and apigenin exhibited anti HCV activity in vitro
and in cell culture system. It was further established that the inhibition of
HCV replication in cell culture system was via inhibition of HCV replicase activity
in the cell. Researchers suggest, standardized extract of Eclipta alba or
its isolates can be used as an alternative and/or complimentary treatment
against HCV. [88]
Hypolipdimeic
effect:
According
to Kumari et al, the alcoholic extract of all parts of E. prostrata
exhibited a dose-dependent activity in albino rats when compared to standard
drugs. The activity was assessed by studying the lipid profiles of serum, liver
and heart of the control and drug-treated animals. [89]
Charles
River Sprague-Dawley CD rats were fed experimental diets supplemented with 0 mg
(control), 25 mg (E25), 50 mg (E50), or 100 mg (E100) of a freezedried butanol
fraction of E. prostrata per kilogram of diet for 6 weeks. Serum
triacylglyceride and total cholesterol levels were significantly lower in the
E50 and E100 groups by 9.8% to 19.0% and by 10.7% to 13.4%, respectively, and
low-density lipoprotein–cholesterol levels were significantly reduced in the
same groups by 10.3% to 13.0% compared with the untreated control group [90]
Culinary uses
Not used routinely. In some countries it is
included in diet to prevent breast and prostate cancer.
Toxicity
Use
of E. alba can cause severe chills in
some patients.
The
maximum lethal dose was found to be 5000mg/kg bodyweight. [91]
Even
after prolonged use E. alba does not show signs of toxicity. The plant
extract per se does not have genotoxic potential but can modulate
ethenylestradiol induced genotoxicity in cultured human lymphocytes. [92]
Drug Interactions
Not
reported
Medicinal Actions and Uses
Traditional Uses
In
folk medicine a black dye obtained from E.
alba is in vogue for dyeing hair and tattooing. Externally it is used to
treat athlete foot, eczema and dermatitis, hair loss and to prevent graying of
hair. Its leaves are used to treat scorpion sting. It is used for the treatment
of jaundice (infective hepatitis, now viral hepatitis) and ascites (due to
cirrhosis of the liver). It is believed by folk to rejuvenate hair, teeth,
bone, improve memory, sight and hearing. Thus the herb prevents and retards
aging in general.
In
Taiwan E. alba is used to arrest
bleeding anywhere in the body especially hemoptysis, hematemesis, bleeding
piles and hematuria. It is used for diarrhea and infective hepatitis.
Externally it is used to allay itching and some skin allergies.
In
China E. prostrata is a cooling and
restorative herb. It is used for its actions on the mind, nerves, liver, kidney
and eyes.
In
China and Brazil it is used to promote hair growth, to improve hair color, and
as anti-snake venom medicine. [93]
Usages in Ayurveda
In
Ayurveda the plant is considered a Rasaayana (Adaptogen) for rejuvenation of
hair, teeth, bones, memory, sight, hearing and body systems imparting
longevity.
It
is used to promote deep sleep.
It
is used for the hair care and to improve complexion.
It
is used to relieve gastralgia, nausea and vomiting.
The
Roots are used as emetic and purgative.
It
is strongly recommended for the treatment of jaundice, ascites and
enlarged
spleen
(probably due to portal hypertension and not due to any other cause). It is
especially rejuvenating for hair, skin and teeth. According to Ayurveda the
liver is the controller of hair, nails, skin and teeth. Hence by improving the
liver functions Bhringraj (Eclipta alba) acts as rejuvenator for these
tissues.
Bhringraj
(Eclipta alba) improves iron metabolism and improves the quality of the
blood.
Acting
as appetizer it increases bile flow from the liver into the intestines. [94]
By
sedating the nervous system it relieves headache and vertigo.
It
reduces BP and edema
It
has been used in night blindness and myopia to improve vision.
It
is useful in skin disorders and improves complexion. [95]
It
is used to relieve dysuria and improve kidney function.
The
leaves are used to treat Dysfunctional Uterine Bleeding (DUB) and repeated
abortions.
It
is used to treat scorpion stings.
Recently
nasal instillation (nose drops) of Bhringraj (Eclipta alba) Tailam
(Bhringraj (Eclipta alba) Oil) along with administration of Kaasis
Bhasma internally has been used to treat premature graying of hair (Palitam,
palitham). Vide infra (Additional Information)
Indications
mentioned in Ayurvedic texts:
Dhanwantaree
Nighantu: Shotha (edema), Aama (for
scavenging free radicals), Kapha (expectoration), Paandu (anemia), Kushtha
(leprosy), Kandu (itching)
Shodala
Nighantu: Shwitra (leucoderma),
Akshiroga (ophthalmic disorders)
Bhawaprakaasha
Nighantu: Krimi (helminthiasis),
Kaasa (cough), Shwaasa (dyspnea), Shotha (edema), Aama (for scavenging free
radicals), Paandu (anemia), Kushtha
(leprosy), Netraroga (ophthalmic disorders), Shiroroga (ailments of the head)
Kaiyadeva
Nighantu: Netraroga (ophthalmic
disorders), Shiroroga (ailments of the head), Krimi (helminthiasis), Kaasa
(cough), Shwaasa (dyspnea), Shotha (edema), Kushtha (leprosy), Shotha (edema),
Aama dosha (for scavenging free radicals),
Paandu roga (anemia).
Madanaphala
Nighantu: Kushtha (leprosy),
Netraroga (ophthalmic disorders), Shiroroga (ailments of the head). [96]
Therapeutic
recommendations mentioned in Ayurvedic texts:
Charaka
Samhitaa:
Graying of hair: Bhringraj (Eclipta alba) Taila (Ch. Chi-26/264)
Sushruta
Samhitaa:
Inflammations caused by nail
scratching-Bhringraj (Eclipta alba) swarasa (the juice of fresh leaves)
(Su. Kalpasthaana-8/56)
Kaasa-Shwaasa (cough-dyspnea)-
Oil (?Sesame oil) cooked with 10 times fresh juice of Bhringraj (Eclipta
alba), when used judiciously alleviates cough and dyspnea (Su. Uttarsthaana
-51/30)
Psoriasis- Tagara (Tabernaemontana
coronarea ), Kushtha (AkA Pushkaramoola, Saussurea lappa/ Saussurea
costus), Apaamaarga (Achyranthes aspera), pounded with Bhringraj (Eclipta
alba) juice for local application (Su. Kalpasthaana -8-54)
Ashtaanga
Hridayam:
Those who drink the fresh juice
of Bhringraj (Eclipta alba) leaves for one month and consume milk as
staple food attain a life of 100 years endowed with strength and vigor
(Ashtaanga. us.-34/136)
Shaarngadhara Samhitaa:
Iron ore and Saariwaa (Hemidesmus
indicus L.) are made into bolus, mixed in oil (?Sesame oil) and Bhringraj (Eclipta
alba) swaras (juice) and boiled to the consistency of oil. It is applied to
get rid of dandruff, premature graying of hair, pruritus and alopecia.
Nimba beeja (seeds of Citrus
limonum) are macerated with Bhringraj (Eclipta alba) juice and
decoction of wood of Asana (Pterocarpus marsupium) tree to make paste.
The paste is cooked in Sesame oil. Few drops of this oil are instilled in each
nostril. During the treatment the patient consumes rice and milk as staple
diet. This cures premature graying of hair in men.
Chakradatta:
To relieve gastritis,
hyperacidity and vomiting mix Hareetakee (Terminalia chebula) powder,
Bhringraj (Eclipta alba) and old jiggery and consume small pills
frequently.
For healthy hair- Cook Sesame oil with Bhringraj (Eclipta alba) juice,
paste of triphalaa, Neelotpala (Nymphaea stellata Wild), Saariwaa (Hemidesmus
indicus L.) and slag of iron (partially vitreous by-product of smelting
iron ore). Use this hair oil daily. This hair oil makes the hair curled, dense
and firm. [97]
Usages in Siddha Medicine
In many afflictions E. alba
is used as in the Ayurvedic system. Some different uses are mentioned here.
Its leaves are steeped in boiling water. The steam arising from it is
used to treat piles.
Paste made by leaves ground in sesame oil is applied on the body part
inflamed due to filariasis.
The
juice of entire plant is given to treat hepatomegaly, splenomegaly,
indigestion, jaundice etc. in the dose of 20-30 ml twice a day.
Paste
made from leaves is rubbed well and bandage applied at the site of scorpion
bite.
Usages in Modern Medicine
In
modern times E. alba is a precious
herb in hair care and cosmetic industry.
In
southern Thailand E. alba fresh plant
is used as self medication by HIV positive patients. There it is also used to
treat giardiasis.
In
some countries it is used to treat dyslipidemia, edema and paronychia.
Extract
of E. prostrata is used to treat
lethal and myotoxic effects of South American rattlesnake venom.
Alas!
Despite the data accumulated from various animal studies E. alba is underused in clinical practice in modern medicine. More studies are
warranted to unravel its therapeutic potentials in hepatology.
Preparations and dosages
Fresh juice: For hematuria, 5-15 ml twice a day. For common cold
in infant 2-3 drops with equal quantity of honey or mixed with goat’s milk. To
expel intestinal worms, given in the morning with 15 ml. of castor oil.
Powder: As adaptogen given orally for a month with honey, 2-5
grams. Also used for anemia, dropsy and jaundice. The powder of the root is
given internally in the dose of 5 gram daily for diseases of the liver, spleen
and skin diseases.
Powder of the whole plant: 3 to 5 grams
Tincture: 0.5 - 3 ml. daily.
Infusion: 100- 200 ml. daily.
Seeds: 0.5 to 1.5 G
Decoction: Is used orally to treat leprosy. Decoction with black
pepper and sugar is used as anti-inflammatory
Bhringraj
(Eclipta alba) Ghana Sattwa: For
viral hepatitis 1g three times a day
Bhringraj
(Eclipta alba) watee (Tablet): For
viral hepatitis 1g three times a day 600 mg. three times a day [98]
Medicated oil: In hair care and cosmetic industry, it is massaged on
to the scalp, to impart calming effect and to promote good sleep. It is rubbed
on the head to relieve headache. It is massaged on the affected part to relieve
lymphedema. Modern Bhringraj (Eclipta alba) oils are enriched with
natural proteins, polysaccharides, vitamin E, minerals, peppermint oil, mint
leaf extract and many other nutrients for hair care.
Bhringraj (Eclipta alba) seeds promote spermatogenesis, hence is used for virilisation.
[99]
Bhringraj (Eclipta alba) ghrita
(Medicated ghee): Dose not found
Important
Combinations
Bringaraaja
taila, Shadbinu taila, Bhringraj (Eclipta alba)adi choorna [101]
With
honey the leaf extract is used to treat catarrh, urinary problems and to expel
worms in infants and children. [102]
Kayyanyadi
Tailam: Swaras of Bhringraj (Eclipta
alba), Amritaa and Dhaatree 8%, Yashti (Kalka) 2.26% Tailam 84% Milk 5%
Anjana (Patrapakam) 0.58%
Grahani Mihira Tailam: 12gm Bhringraj (Eclipta alba) in 4 litres of
Tailam. Recommended for fever, hyperacidity, respiratory disorders
Nilibrngadi Tailam: Bhringraj (Eclipta alba) Swaras 768 ml in 6.5 litres of oil. To
be used externally for headache
Nilakadya Tailam: Contains Bhringraj (Eclipta alba)
12 gm in 3 litres of oil. Used as oil massage, usually before bath. [103]
References:
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3. http://www.dreddyclinic.com/ayurvedic/herbs/bb/bhringaraj.htm
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http://www.dreddyclinic.com/ayurvedic/herbs/bb/bhringaraj.htm
6.
https://sites.google.com/site/efloraofindia/.../a.../eclipta/eclipta-prostrata
7.
https://books.google.co.in/books?id=YC_lAgAAQBAJ&pg=PA1518&lpg=PA1518&dq=etymology+of+Eclipta&source=bl&ots=cU-lyfd6ZA&sig=DVnmfaQro-K5KkdROCAsGiCi3E0&hl=en&sa=X&ved=0CDQQ6AEwA2oVChMIrNKYzJWLyQIVY9imCh2LqAKv#v=onepage&q=etymology%20of%20Eclipta&f=false
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http://www.ayurveda.hu/api/API-Vol-2.pdf
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http://www.imispharma.com/Products/Medicine-Neeli-Bhringaraja-Taila.htm
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