Eclipta Prostrata Extract
Also known as: Eclipta prostrata (L.) L., False Daisy, Bhringraj, Eclipta alba, Eclipta prostrata
Overview
Eclipta prostrata, also known as False Daisy or Bhringraj, is a traditional medicinal plant widely utilized in Asian medicine. The extract, derived from the plant's aerial parts, contains a rich array of bioactive compounds, including flavonoids like luteolin, various phenolic acids, and coumestans such as wedelolactone. It is primarily investigated for its potential anticancer, hepatoprotective, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective properties. While numerous in vitro and in vivo studies support its traditional uses, high-quality human randomized controlled trials (RCTs) are limited. Research indicates its potential in inhibiting tumor growth, reducing metastasis, and offering neuroprotective benefits, primarily through mechanisms involving apoptosis induction and modulation of oxidative stress pathways. Despite its long history of traditional use, more rigorous clinical research is needed to fully establish its efficacy and safety in humans.
Benefits
Eclipta prostrata extract shows promising, primarily preclinical, benefits: - **Anticancer Activity:** Strong evidence from in vitro and in vivo studies suggests *E. prostrata* can inhibit tumor growth and metastasis, particularly in breast and oral cancers. The chloroform fraction selectively induces apoptosis in breast cancer cells by disrupting mitochondrial membrane potential and modulating apoptotic proteins (e.g., Hsp60 upregulation, XIAP downregulation). Luteolin is identified as a key active compound. Oral administration in tumor-bearing mice reduced tumor volume and improved hematological parameters. However, these findings are from animal models and cell lines, and human clinical trials are needed. - **Antimetastatic Effects:** In vitro studies on oral cancer cells indicate that extracts can inhibit cell migration and invasion, likely by modulating signaling pathways involving JNK and matrix metalloproteinases. This suggests a potential role in preventing cancer spread, but this has not been confirmed in living organisms. - **Neuroprotective and Anti-aging Effects:** Preclinical animal studies suggest *E. prostrata* extract may improve cognitive deficits and reduce oxidative stress markers in aging models. This indicates a potential for supporting brain health and mitigating age-related decline, but these are early-stage findings requiring human validation.
How it works
The primary mechanism of action for *Eclipta prostrata*'s anticancer effects involves the induction of **intrinsic apoptotic pathways**. This process includes the disruption of mitochondrial membrane potential, modulation of heat shock proteins (specifically Hsp60), and downregulation of anti-apoptotic proteins like XIAP, leading to programmed cell death in cancer cells. Luteolin, a key flavonoid present in the extract, is a significant contributor to these effects, acting as both an antioxidant and an apoptosis inducer. Additionally, the extract modulates inflammatory and oxidative stress pathways, which contributes to its observed neuroprotective and anti-aging effects in animal models. The exact bioavailability of its compounds is not yet well-characterized.
Side effects
The safety profile of *Eclipta prostrata* extract is not fully established in humans due to a lack of comprehensive clinical trials. Preclinical studies in animal models have generally reported no significant toxic side effects at doses effective for anticancer activity. Traditional use of *E. prostrata* suggests a low toxicity profile. However, without robust human safety data, the full spectrum of potential adverse effects, their severity, and frequency remain unknown. There are no well-documented drug interactions or contraindications available from high-quality clinical data. Specific risk factors for adverse reactions have not been identified. Individuals should exercise caution and consult a healthcare professional before using *E. prostrata* extract, especially if they have pre-existing medical conditions, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or are taking other medications, as potential interactions have not been systematically evaluated.
Dosage
Currently, there are no established human dosing guidelines for *Eclipta prostrata* extract due to the absence of high-quality randomized controlled trials (RCTs). Doses effective in animal studies vary significantly; for instance, anticancer effects were observed with oral administration of 250–500 mg/kg in mice. The bioactivity of the extract can also be influenced by the extraction method (e.g., methanol versus chloroform fraction). In animal studies, the timing and duration of administration have ranged from several weeks to months, depending on the specific research objective. Without human clinical data, it is not possible to recommend a safe or effective dosage for human consumption, nor are there defined upper limits or safety thresholds. Any use should be approached with caution and under professional guidance.
FAQs
Is Eclipta prostrata extract effective against cancer?
Preclinical evidence from cell lines and animal models supports its anticancer effects, particularly in breast and oral cancers, by inducing apoptosis. However, human clinical trials are currently lacking to confirm these benefits.
Is Eclipta prostrata extract safe for human consumption?
Animal studies suggest safety at tested doses, and traditional use indicates low toxicity. However, comprehensive human safety data are insufficient, so caution is advised until more research is conducted.
How quickly can benefits be observed?
In animal tumor models, effects were observed within weeks. Similarly, cognitive benefits in aging models also required several weeks of administration. Human response times are unknown.
Can Eclipta prostrata extract be used with conventional cancer treatments?
There is no robust clinical data on interactions with conventional treatments. Due to the lack of studies, caution is strongly advised, and consultation with a healthcare professional is essential before combining therapies.
Research Sources
- https://www.nature.com/articles/srep18457 – This study investigated the anticancer effects of Eclipta alba's chloroform fraction on breast cancer cells. It found that the extract selectively induced apoptosis by disrupting mitochondrial membrane potential and modulating proteins like Hsp60 and XIAP, leading to reduced tumor growth in animal models without significant toxicity.
- https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1002/tox.22577 – This research explored the antimetastatic properties of Eclipta prostrata on oral cancer cells. It demonstrated that the extract could inhibit cell migration and invasion in vitro, likely by modulating JNK and MMP signaling pathways, suggesting a potential role in preventing cancer spread.
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10054545/ – This systematic review included Eclipta prostrata among various herbal extracts studied for neuroprotective and anti-aging effects in rodent models. It highlighted findings of improved oxidative stress markers and cognitive function, indicating potential benefits for brain health, though the evidence is limited to animal studies.
