Yerba de Tago

Eclipta prostrata

NAME: Eclipta prostrata

FAMILY: Asteraceae

COMMON NAMES: False Daisy, Yerba de Tago, Bhringraj

LOCAL NAMES: Karisalankanni (Tamil), Bhringaraj (Hindi), Maka Botol (Malay), Han Lian Cao (Chinese), Kesharaja (Sanskrit)

MORPHOLOGICAL DESCRIPTION: Eclipta prostrata is a small annual herb that typically grows in moist, sunny areas. It has a prostrate or spreading habit and can reach a height of up to 50 centimeters. The plant features numerous small, white or yellowish flowers with a central disk surrounded by ray florets. The leaves are opposite, lance-shaped, and have a smooth texture. Eclipta prostrata produces small, black, achene-like fruits.

USEFUL PART(s): The leaves, stems, and roots of Eclipta prostrata are commonly used for various purposes.

GENERAL USES:

  1. Traditional Medicine: Eclipta prostrata has a long history of use in traditional medicine systems such as Ayurveda and traditional Chinese medicine. It is believed to have hepatoprotective, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties. The plant is used to treat liver disorders, hair loss, skin diseases, respiratory issues, and promote overall well-being.

  2. Hair Care: The extract or oil derived from Eclipta prostrata, known as Bhringraj oil, is widely used in hair care products. It is believed to nourish the scalp, strengthen hair follicles, and promote hair growth. Bhringraj oil is used in various hair treatments, including hair oils, shampoos, and conditioners.

  3. Culinary Uses: In some regions, the leaves of Eclipta prostrata are used as a culinary ingredient. They are added to salads, stir-fries, and herbal teas for their nutritional value.

GEOGRAPHIC DISTRIBUTION: Eclipta prostrata is native to tropical and subtropical regions of Asia, including India, China, Malaysia, Thailand, and the Philippines. It is also found in some parts of Africa, Australia, and the Americas. Due to its wide distribution, it is considered a cosmopolitan weed in many regions.

WHY IS IT GREEN? Like other plants, Eclipta prostrata appears green due to the presence of chlorophyll in its cells. Chlorophyll is a pigment that plays a crucial role in photosynthesis, the process by which plants convert sunlight into energy. Chlorophyll absorbs light energy from the sun, particularly in the blue and red regions of the electromagnetic spectrum, and uses this energy to synthesize carbohydrates from carbon dioxide and water.

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT: Eclipta prostrata can have both positive and negative environmental impacts. On the positive side, it serves as a food source for various insects and birds. It also helps prevent soil erosion due to its spreading habit and extensive root system.

However, Eclipta prostrata can also become an invasive weed in certain areas, particularly in agricultural fields and disturbed habitats. Its rapid growth and ability to produce a large number of seeds can result in the displacement of native plant species and reduce crop yields.

FUN FACT: In traditional Indian medicine, Eclipta prostrata is considered an important herb for promoting hair health. The name "Bhringraj" in Hindi translates to "King of Hair," highlighting its significance in hair care remedies.

Further Reading:

  • "Eclipta prostrata: Its Biological Properties and Traditional Uses in Ayurveda" by R. S. Chaudhary