# Karisalai (Eclipta prostrata)

**Canonical URL:** https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/ingredients/karisalai
**Data Source:** Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia
**Updated:** 2026-03-19
**Evidence Score:** 4 / 10
**Category:** Southeast Asian
**Also Known As:** Eclipta prostrata, Bhringraj, False daisy, Yerba de tago, Han lian cao, Trailing eclipta, Ecliptae herba

## Overview

Karisalai (Eclipta prostrata) is a traditional Siddha herb containing wedelolactone and eclalbasaponins as primary bioactive compounds. It demonstrates [hepatoprotective](/ingredients/condition/detox) effects through antioxidant mechanisms that reduce liver damage and [oxidative stress](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant).

## Health Benefits

• [Hepatoprotective](/ingredients/condition/detox) effects demonstrated in controlled animal trials, showing protection against acetaminophen-induced liver damage through antioxidant mechanisms (preclinical evidence)
• Antioxidant activity shown in cell models, with concentration-dependent reduction in [reactive oxygen species](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) and Bax/Bcl-2 ratio (in vitro evidence)
• Traditional use for [hair growth](/ingredients/condition/skin-health) promotion and scalp health (traditional evidence only, no clinical trials found)
• [Anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) potential attributed to flavonoids and coumestans (traditional use, mechanism proposed but not clinically validated)
• Traditionally used as anthelmintic (intestinal worm expulsion) when juice mixed with castor oil (traditional evidence only)

## Mechanism of Action

Karisalai's [hepatoprotective](/ingredients/condition/detox) effects operate through wedelolactone and eclalbasaponin compounds that enhance antioxidant enzyme activity including superoxide dismutase and catalase. These compounds reduce [reactive oxygen species](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) formation and protect cellular membranes from lipid peroxidation. The herb also modulates cytochrome P450 enzymes involved in liver detoxification pathways.

## Clinical Summary

Preclinical animal studies demonstrate Karisalai's ability to protect against acetaminophen-induced liver damage, with significant reduction in liver enzyme markers. Cell culture studies show concentration-dependent antioxidant activity and reduced [reactive oxygen species](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) formation. However, human clinical trials are limited, with most evidence coming from traditional use and laboratory studies. Current research focuses primarily on [hepatoprotective](/ingredients/condition/detox) and antioxidant properties rather than other traditional claims.

## Nutritional Profile

{"macronutrients": {"protein": "Approximately 5.4 g per 100 g of dried leaves", "fiber": "Approximately 11.2 g per 100 g of dried leaves"}, "micronutrients": {"vitamins": {"vitamin_C": "Approximately 3.5 mg per 100 g of dried leaves", "vitamin_A": "Present in trace amounts, primarily as beta-carotene"}, "minerals": {"iron": "Approximately 1.8 mg per 100 g of dried leaves", "calcium": "Approximately 320 mg per 100 g of dried leaves", "phosphorus": "Approximately 110 mg per 100 g of dried leaves"}}, "bioactive_compounds": {"wedelolactone": "Approximately 0.5 mg per 100 g of dried leaves", "eclalbasaponin": "Present in trace amounts"}, "bioavailability_notes": "The bioavailability of minerals such as iron and calcium may be affected by the presence of oxalates and phytates in the plant, which can inhibit absorption. Cooking or processing methods may enhance the bioavailability of certain nutrients."}

## Dosage & Preparation

No standardized clinical dosages have been established from human trials. Traditional use includes juice at 1/2 ounce mixed with castor oil for anthelmintic purposes, and Karisalai Karpam tablets (dose unspecified in studies). Consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement.

## Safety & Drug Interactions

Karisalai is generally considered safe when used traditionally, but comprehensive safety data is limited. Potential interactions with liver-metabolized medications may occur due to its effects on cytochrome P450 enzymes. Pregnancy and breastfeeding safety has not been established through clinical studies. Individuals with liver conditions should consult healthcare providers before use, as it may affect liver enzyme levels.

## Scientific Research

Human clinical trials for Eclipta prostrata are notably absent in the available research, with no PubMed PMIDs for large-scale RCTs identified. The strongest evidence comes from preclinical studies including controlled animal trials showing [hepatoprotective](/ingredients/condition/detox) effects of Karisalai Karpam formulation and in vitro studies demonstrating [antioxidant activity](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) of ethyl acetate extracts against oxidative stress models.

## Historical & Cultural Context

In Siddha and Ayurvedic medicine, Karisalai (known as Bhringraj in Sanskrit) has been used for over 1,000 years for liver disorders, [hair growth](/ingredients/condition/skin-health), skin diseases, and as a general tonic. Traditional formulations include Karisalai Ennai (oil) for [inflammation](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) and dermatological issues, reflecting its role as a cholagogue, alterative, hepato-tonic, and diuretic in Indian traditional medicine.

## Synergistic Combinations

Milk Thistle, Turmeric, Schisandra, Artichoke, N-Acetylcysteine

## Frequently Asked Questions

### What is the active compound in Karisalai?

The primary active compound is wedelolactone, along with eclalbasaponins and coumestans. These compounds are responsible for the herb's hepatoprotective and antioxidant effects demonstrated in laboratory studies.

### How does Karisalai protect the liver?

Karisalai protects the liver by enhancing antioxidant enzymes like superoxide dismutase and reducing reactive oxygen species. Studies show it can prevent acetaminophen-induced liver damage through these antioxidant mechanisms.

### What is the traditional dosage of Karisalai?

Traditional Siddha medicine typically uses 1-3 grams of dried Karisalai powder daily or 10-20ml of fresh juice. However, standardized clinical dosages have not been established through human trials.

### Can Karisalai interact with medications?

Karisalai may interact with liver-metabolized drugs due to its effects on cytochrome P450 enzymes. It's particularly important to consult healthcare providers if taking acetaminophen or other hepatotoxic medications.

### Is Karisalai safe during pregnancy?

Safety during pregnancy has not been established through clinical studies. Traditional use suggests caution, and pregnant women should avoid Karisalai unless specifically recommended by qualified practitioners familiar with Siddha medicine.

### What does research show about Karisalai's effectiveness for hair growth?

Karisalai has a strong traditional history of use for promoting hair growth and scalp health across Ayurvedic and Southeast Asian medicine systems. While preclinical antioxidant studies support mechanisms that could benefit scalp tissue, robust clinical trials specifically measuring hair growth outcomes in humans are limited. Most evidence remains anecdotal or based on traditional use rather than controlled human studies, so claims about hair growth efficacy should be considered preliminary.

### Who would benefit most from taking Karisalai supplements?

Individuals with concerns about liver health, oxidative stress, or those interested in traditional hepatoprotective support may benefit from Karisalai supplementation, particularly given its strong traditional use profile and demonstrated antioxidant properties in laboratory models. Those seeking natural alternatives for scalp and hair wellness may also explore this ingredient based on traditional applications. However, anyone with existing liver disease, those taking hepatically metabolized medications, or pregnant/nursing individuals should consult a healthcare provider before use.

### What is the difference between Karisalai extract and whole herb forms?

Karisalai extracts are concentrated preparations designed to maximize bioavailability of active compounds and ensure consistent dosing, whereas whole herb preparations contain the complete plant material with variable potency. Extract forms may offer improved absorption of antioxidant compounds demonstrated in laboratory studies, though whole herb forms preserve the plant's full phytochemical profile. The choice between forms depends on individual preferences, intended use, and whether concentrated bioactive compounds or traditional whole-plant synergy is desired.

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