2017, Vol. 5, Issue 2, Part D

author(s)
Shikha Sharma, Richa and Harsimran

abstract
Eclipta prostrata L. is commonly known as False Daisy or Bhringaraj. It is a creeping and moisture loving herb commonly found on roadsides and waste lands. It is also popularly known as “King of hairs” used in indigenous system of medicine as a hepatoprotective drug. It is small branched annual herbaceous plant with a long history of traditional medicines uses in many countries especially in tropical and subtropical regions. The herb has known for its curative properties and has been utilized as analgesic, antibacterial, antihepatotoxic, antihaemorrhagic, antihyperglycemic, antioxidant, immunomodulatory properties and it is considered as a good rejuvenator too. A wide range of chemical compounds including alkaloids, flavonoids, polyacetylenes, triterpenes and their glycosides have been isolated from this species. Extracts and metabolites from this plant have been known to possess pharmacological properties. In the present investigation anatomical, phytochemical and HPLC studies of Eclipta alba were carried out. In order to ensure the use of only genuine and uniform material of such herbal drugs, work on plant identifying features assumes vital significance. Preliminary phytochemical analysis showed that alkaloids, flavonoids, glycosides, steroids, terpenoids were present in the plant material. The results of the anatomical studies and chromatogram of HPLC, would serve as standard reference for identification of the medicinal herb.