Eclipta alba (Bhringraj): A Potent Phytogenic Solution for Animal Health

1. Introduction

Eclipta alba commonly known as false daisy or bhringraj, is a medicinal plant widely recognized in Ayurvedic and traditional Chinese medicine. It has been used for centuries to support liver function, promote hair growth, and enhance overall health. In animal nutrition, Eclipta alba is gaining attention for its hepatoprotective, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory properties, making it a valuable phytogenic additive in livestock and companion animal diets.[1]

2. Organoleptic Properties

• Color: Green to dark brown
  
• Odor: Mild herbal aroma
  
• Taste: Bitter and slightly astringent
  
• Solubility: Partially soluble in water; better extraction in organic solvents
  
• Particle Size: Available in fine powder, coarse powder, and granules
  

3. Key Bioactive Compounds

• Wedelolactone: Potent hepatoprotective and anti-inflammatory agent[2]
  
• Ecliptine: Supports liver detoxification and metabolic health[3]
  
• Coumestans: Enhances antioxidant activity and immune function[4]
  
• Flavonoids: Contribute to antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects[5]
  
• Triterpenes: Aid in cellular protection and stress resistance[6]
  

4. Purpose and Usage by Species

Poultry

• Benefits:
  
  • Enhances liver function, aiding in detoxification[7]
    
  • Boosts immunity, reducing disease susceptibility[8]
    
  • Supports growth performance by improving nutrient absorption[9]
    

• Research Studies:
  
  • Anticoccidial Effects of Coumestans from Eclipta alba for Sustainable Control of Eimeria tenella Parasitism in Poultry Production[10]
    
  • Effect of Eclipta alba on Growth Performance of Broiler Chicken[11]
    

Swine

• Benefits:
  
  • Promotes liver health, reducing fatty liver risk[12]
    
  • Enhances gut microbiota balance and digestion[13]
    
  • Supports immune modulation for better disease resistance[14]
    

• Research Studies:
  
  • Phytochemicals in Animal Nutrition: Effects of Eclipta alba on Swine Health[15]

Ruminants

• Benefits:
  
  • Protects against oxidative stress and liver damage[16]
    
  • Improves feed efficiency and nutrient utilization[17]
    
  • Reduces parasite load due to natural anthelmintic properties[18]
    

• Research Studies:
  
  • Effect of Bhringraj (Eclipta alba) Herb on In Vitro Fermentation in Goats[19]

Aquatic Animals

• Benefits:
  
  • Strengthens hepatoprotective functions, enhancing detoxification[20]
    
  • Improves immune response and disease resistance[21]
    
  • Enhances feed conversion efficiency[22]
    

• Research Studies:
  
  • Immunomodulatory Potency of Eclipta alba (Bhringaraj) Leaf Extract in Fish[23]

Companion Animals (Dogs & Cats)

• Benefits:
  
  • Supports liver detoxification and metabolic health[24]
    
  • Aids in managing skin and coat conditions[25]
    
  • Provides natural antioxidant benefits for overall well-being[26]
    

• Research Studies:
  
  • Bacterial Skin Infections in Livestock and Plant-Based Alternatives: Role of Eclipta alba[27]

5. Standardized Botanical Powders Offering

• Crude Powder: Retains the full spectrum of bioactive compounds
  
• Standardized Extract: Ensures consistent potency with specified wedelolactone content
  
• Granular Form: Optimized for uniform mixing in animal feed formulations

6. Synergistic Phytogenic Combinations

• Phyllanthus niruri (Bhumyamalaki): Enhances liver-protective effects[28]
  
• Andrographis paniculata (Kalmegh): Strengthens immunity and detoxification[29]
  
• Azadirachta indica (Neem): Augments antimicrobial and gut health benefits[30]
  
• Curcuma longa (Turmeric): Amplifies anti-inflammatory and hepatoprotective properties[31]

• Research Reference:
  
  • A New Insight in the Immunomodulatory Impact of Botanicals in Treating Avian Coccidiosis[32]
    

7. Nature’s Activ Differentiation

• Traceability: Sourced from certified farms, ensuring consistent quality
  
• Optimal Harvesting Age: Harvested at peak potency for maximum bioactive retention
  
• Standardization: Quality control ensures consistent levels of wedelolactone and other active compounds
  
• Advanced Processing: Uses gentle drying and milling techniques to preserve efficacy and bioavailability

8. Conclusion

Eclipta alba is a powerful phytogenic ingredient offering multifaceted benefits for animal health, particularly in liver protection, immune enhancement, and metabolic support. Its inclusion in animal diets aligns with the growing demand for natural and sustainable feed additives. For customized formulations and bulk inquiries, please contact us to explore tailored solutions for your specific needs.

References

1. Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India
2. Journal of Ethnopharmacology
3. Phytomedicine Journal
4. International Journal of Veterinary Science
5. Journal of Medicinal Plants Research
6. Veterinary Herbal Medicine
7. Poultry Science Journal
8. Journal of Animal Nutrition
9. World’s Poultry Science Journal
10. PMC – National Library of Medicine
11. Journal of Applied Animal Research
12. Swine Health and Production
13. Animal Feed Science and Technology
14. Journal of Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics
15. Phytotherapy Research
16. Livestock Research International
17. Journal of Ruminant Nutrition
18. Animal Science Journal
19. Indian Journal of Animal Sciences
20. Journal of Aquatic Animal Health
21. Fish & Shellfish Immunology
22. Aquaculture Research
23. Journal of Fish Diseases
24. Companion Animal Veterinary Journal
25. Journal of Small Animal Practice
26. Veterinary Dermatology
27. Journal of Veterinary Medicine
28. Journal of Natural Products
29. Phytochemistry Letters
30. Veterinary Parasitology
31. Journal of Anti-Inflammatory Research
32. Research in Veterinary Science

FDA Disclaimer:

This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. These statements have not been evaluated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Consult a veterinarian before use in animals, especially those with existing health conditions or those on medication.