Unveiling the Therapeutic Wealth of Eclipta Prostrata: Ethnobotany, Bioactive Compounds, and Biomedical Relevance

Eclipta prostrata, also known as Eclipta alba, is a medicinal herb recognized for its therapeutic effects on respiratory, skin, and liver conditions, as well as its ability to promote hair growth. This review compiles current knowledge on its botanical characteristics, ethnomedical uses, and pharmacological activities. The plant contains various bioactive compounds, such as alkaloids, triterpenoid saponins, flavonoids, phenolic compounds, and coumestans, which contribute to its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antidiabetic, hepatoprotective, anticancer, and other health benefits. These effects are mediated through pathways like ERK/STAT1, AMPK/PGC-1α, NF-κB, and METTL3-mediated RNA methylation. The review advocates for the integration of E. prostrata into modern pharmaceuticals, emphasizing its potential in evidence-based therapies.