Ethnopharmacological Significance of Eclipta alba (L.) Hassk. (Asteraceae)

The document from 2014 reviews the ethnopharmacological significance of Eclipta alba, a plant traditionally used in the Indian subcontinent for treating a variety of ailments. It is used for conditions such as gastrointestinal and respiratory disorders, hair loss, liver issues, and skin diseases. The plant contains compounds like wedelolactone, eclalbasaponins, ursolic acid, oleanolic acid, luteolin, and apigenin, which have demonstrated a range of pharmacological activities including anticancer, hepatoprotective, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial effects. Studies have shown that E. alba can promote hair growth, protect against liver toxicity, reduce blood glucose levels, and exhibit analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects. It also has potential in treating cardiovascular issues, immunomodulation, antiepileptic, anticancer, antiulcer, anthelmintic, and snake venom neutralizing activities. The document concludes that Eclipta alba has diverse pharmacological activities and potential therapeutic applications, with specific compounds like wedelolactone and α-amyrin showing promise for drug development.