Eclipta Prostrata
Contents
Description
Eclipta Prostrata, also known as False Daisy, Yerba De Tago, or Bhringraj, is an herbaceous annual plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is native to India, China, Thailand, and Brazil and is widely cultivated in other tropical and subtropical countries. The plant has been used for centuries in traditional medicine to treat various ailments, including liver disorders, skin diseases, and hair loss.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Eclipta |
Appearance
Eclipta Prostrata grows up to 50 cm in height and spreads up to 1 meter. The stem is slender, green, and hairy. The leaves are simple, opposite, and lanceolate in shape, measuring 2-8 cm in length and 0.5-2 cm in width. The flowers are small and white, arranged in clusters at the end of the branches. The fruit is a small achene with a tuft of hairs that aids in wind dispersal.
Care Guide
Eclipta Prostrata is easy to grow and requires minimal care. Here are some tips:
- Water: Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Feed the plant with a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season.
- Soil: Use a well-draining soil mix with organic matter.
- Sunlight: Eclipta Prostrata prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant thrives in USDA hardiness zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Eclipta Prostrata is generally pest and disease-free. However, it may be susceptible to:
- Aphids: These sap-sucking insects can cause stunted growth and yellowing of leaves. Control them by spraying with neem oil or insecticidal soap.
- Whiteflies: These tiny insects can cause leaf yellowing and curling. Control them by using yellow sticky traps or spraying with insecticidal soap.
- Powdery Mildew: This fungal disease appears as a white powdery coating on leaves. Control it by improving air circulation and reducing humidity.
Habitat
Eclipta Prostrata grows in a wide range of habitats, including wetlands, fields, roadsides, and disturbed areas. It prefers moist soil and can tolerate flooding and drought.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Eclipta Prostrata be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Eclipta Prostrata can be grown indoors in a sunny location with good air circulation.
Q: Is Eclipta Prostrata edible?
A: Yes, Eclipta Prostrata is edible and is used in some cuisines as a vegetable.
Q: What is the medicinal value of Eclipta Prostrata?
A: Eclipta Prostrata has been used in traditional medicine to treat liver disorders, skin diseases, hair loss, and other ailments. It contains several bioactive compounds with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and hepatoprotective properties.
Q: Can Eclipta Prostrata be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, Eclipta Prostrata can be propagated from stem cuttings taken in the spring or summer.
Related Plants
- Eclipta Alba
- Wedelia Trilobata
- Tagetes Erecta
- Chrysanthemum Indicum
References
- Bhattacharya, S., et al. (2015). Eclipta alba extract protects against d-galactosamine-induced liver injury in rats. Journal of Traditional and Complementary Medicine, 5(4), 237-243.
- Kritikar, K. R., & Basu, B. D. (1975). Indian medicinal plants (Vol. 1). Periodical Experts, Delhi.
- Patel, P., et al. (2012). A review on medicinal properties of Eclipta alba (Linn.). International Journal of Research in Ayurveda and Pharmacy, 3(2), 152-156.
