Commelina benghalensis (Commelinaceae) Bengal Dayflower, Tropical Spiderwort

Das K
Jun 5
10 min read

Commelina benghalensis, commonly known as Bengal dayflower or tropical spiderwort, is a perennial herb native to tropical Africa and Asia, now widely naturalised in the Americas, Australia, and the Pacific islands. It belongs to the Commelinaceae family, a group of herbaceous plants often characterised by their fleshy stems and distinctive, short-lived flowers. This plant is a remarkable example of a species that straddles the line between a nutritious food source and a powerful medicinal agent. In many parts of the world, its leaves are cooked and eaten as a vegetable, while its sap, leaves, and roots have been used for generations to treat a diverse array of ailments, from eye infections and infertility to jaundice and diarrhoea. Modern scientific research is now beginning to validate these traditional uses, uncovering a plant rich in bioactive compounds with significant therapeutic potential.

1. Taxonomic Insights

Species: Commelina benghalensis L.

Family: Commelinaceae

The Commelinaceae family, commonly known as the spiderwort or dayflower family, is a group of monocotyledonous flowering plants that are predominantly found in tropical and subtropical regions. The family is easily recognised by its succulent stems, colourful flowers that often last only a single day, and leaves with closed sheaths. The genus Commelina is the largest in the family, comprising over 170 species, and is named after two Dutch botanists, Jan and Caspar Commelin. Many species in this genus are known for their medicinal and culinary uses.

Taxonomic Note: The species was first formally described by Carl Linnaeus in 1753. The specific epithet benghalensis refers to the Bengal region of South Asia, one of its native habitats, reflecting its deep roots in the region's flora and traditional knowledge. The plant is a fast-growing, herbaceous perennial that can spread both above ground and through subterranean runners. Its most distinctive feature is the production of two types of flowers: showy, blue chasmogamous flowers that bloom above ground, and cleistogamous (self-fertilising) flowers that are produced on underground shoots, a unique adaptation that ensures its survival.

Related Herbs from the Same Family:

· Commelina erecta (Slender Dayflower): A related species also used in traditional medicine in the Americas for similar purposes, including treating eye infections and inflammation.

· Commelina diffusa (Spreading Dayflower): Another common species used in traditional Asian medicine for its anti-inflammatory and diuretic properties.

· Tradescantia spathacea (Oyster Plant): A species cultivated as an ornamental, with a history of use in traditional medicine for treating respiratory ailments.

· Cyanotis axillaris (Pussy Ears): A species used in traditional Ayurvedic medicine for its wound-healing and antipyretic properties.

2. Common Names

3. Medicinal Uses

Primary Actions: Diuretic, Anti-inflammatory, Antimicrobial, Antioxidant, Hepatoprotective

Secondary Actions: Anxiolytic, Antidiarrheal, Laxative, Anthelmintic, Analgesic, Wound-healing

Medicinal Parts:

The leaves, stems, roots, and the liquid from the flowering spathe are the primary parts used medicinally.

· Leaves and Stems (Sap): The sap is a key medicinal preparation. It is applied topically to treat ophthalmia (conjunctivitis), sore throat, burns, and thrush in infants. A solution of pounded leaves is used for diarrhoea.

· Roots: A decoction of the roots is used to relieve stomach disorders and is also used in southern Africa to counter infertility in women.

· Whole Plant: Used as a poultice for sore feet and as a remedy for various inflammatory conditions and fever.

· Spathe Fluid: The liquid contained within the flowering spathe is used in East Africa as eye drops for eye complaints.

4. Phytochemicals Specific to the Plant and Their Action

The phytochemistry of Commelina benghalensis is characterised by a diverse profile of bioactive compounds, including alkaloids, phenols, flavonoids, and other specialised metabolites. The plant's non-glandular trichomes (hair-like structures) on the leaves and stems are known to be rich sources of these pharmacologically important compounds.

· Alkaloids and Phenols: Histochemical analysis has revealed the presence of alkaloids and phenols in the leaves and stems. These compounds are known for a wide range of biological activities, including antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective effects. Preliminary phytochemical screening confirmed the presence of alkaloids and phenols in the alcohol extract of the plant.

· Flavonoids: These are present in significant amounts and are a major contributor to the plant's antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities.

· Steroids and Terpenoids: These compounds have been detected in the chloroform extract and are associated with anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects.

· Polysaccharides and Proteins: The presence of polysaccharides and proteins in the trichomes suggests roles in intercellular transport and contributing to the plant's mucilaginous texture and potential health benefits.

· Other Compounds: The plant is also known to contain tannins, glycosides, and sterols, which contribute to its diverse pharmacological effects.

5. Traditional and Ethnobotanical Uses Covering the Medicinal Uses

Netra Roga (Eye Disorders)

Formulation: Plant sap or spathe fluid.

Preparation and Use: In East Africa, the sap from the leaves and stems is used to treat ophthalmia and other eye complaints. The liquid contained inside the flowering spathe is specifically used as eye drops in Zanzibar. In India, the plant is also used for conjunctivitis.

Reasoning: The antimicrobial properties of the sap are likely effective against bacterial and viral infections of the eye. The presence of phenols and alkaloids in the sap contributes to its broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity, supporting its traditional use.

Vandhyatva (Female Infertility)

Formulation: Root decoction or whole plant.

Preparation and Use: In southern Africa and various other regions, C. benghalensis is traditionally used to treat infertility in women. A decoction of the root is often prepared for this purpose.

Reasoning: While the exact mechanism is not fully understood, the plant's anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties may help address underlying reproductive health issues. This use highlights the plant's deep cultural significance and the need for further scientific investigation.

Jwara (Fever) and Kamala (Jaundice)

Formulation: Whole plant decoction or mixture.

Preparation and Use: In India, particularly in Rajasthan, the plant is used to treat jaundice in sheep. A mixture of the plant with whey and salt is administered. The plant is also widely used as a febrifuge (fever reducer) in African traditional medicine. It is used in the treatment of malaria.

Reasoning: The hepatoprotective effect of the plant likely helps in managing jaundice by protecting the liver from damage and aiding in its recovery. The antipyretic effects are possibly due to the plant's anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which help the body combat infections that cause fever.

Krimi Roga (Helminthiasis) and Atisara (Diarrhoea)

Formulation: Leaf and root preparations.

Preparation and Use: The plant is used as an anthelmintic to expel intestinal worms. In Tanzania, a solution of pounded leaves soaked in warm water is used to treat diarrhoea, validating its use as an antidiarrheal agent. It is also reported to have laxative properties.

Reasoning: The anthelmintic activity is likely due to the presence of alkaloids and other secondary metabolites that are toxic to parasitic worms. The antidiarrheal effect is likely a combination of antimicrobial action against gut pathogens and astringent properties from tannins that reduce intestinal motility and inflammation.

6. Healing Recipes, Decoctions, and Preparations

Eye Drop Preparation

Purpose: To treat mild eye infections and inflammation.

Preparation and Use:

1. Gently squeeze the sap from a fresh leaf or stem, or collect the liquid from the flowering spathe.

2. Apply one or two drops directly into the affected eye.

3. This is a traditional emergency measure; it is not a substitute for professional medical advice.

Diuretic and Fever-Reducing Decoction

Purpose: To promote diuresis and reduce fever.

Preparation and Use:

1. Take a handful of fresh or dried aerial parts of the plant.

2. Boil them in 500 ml of water for 10-15 minutes.

3. Strain and drink the decoction twice daily.

Antidiarrheal Leaf Infusion

Purpose: To manage mild diarrhoea.

Preparation and Use:

1. Pound a small handful of fresh leaves.

2. Soak them in warm water for a few minutes.

3. Strain and drink the liquid. This traditional preparation is particularly noted in East African ethnomedicine.

Root Decoction for Stomach Disorders

Purpose: To relieve stomach complaints.

Preparation and Use:

1. Boil a small piece of dried or fresh root in 250 ml of water.

2. Strain and take the decoction to soothe stomach ailments.

Culinary Uses of Commelina benghalensis

Commelina benghalensis is a significant food source in many parts of the world, especially in Africa and Asia.

1. Leaves as a Vegetable

Preparation and Use: The young, tender leaves and stems are cooked and eaten as a leafy vegetable. They are often prepared by boiling or sautéing and can be cooked alone or mixed with other vegetables.

Flavour Profile: The leaves are mucilaginous. In some regions, older leaves are considered too acidic and bitter, while the young leaves are a preferred relish.

2. Rhizomes

Preparation and Use: The starchy, mucilaginous rhizomes are also cooked and eaten. In India and Sudan, they are considered a wholesome food.

Foraging and Preparation Notes

Harvesting: The plant is often foraged from roadsides and fields. The young shoots and leaves are the most suitable parts for consumption. The plant is listed as a weed in many parts of the world.

Sustainability: C. benghalensis is a fast-growing and resilient weed, which makes it a sustainable food source in many regions where it is considered a pest.

7. In-Depth Phytochemical Profile and Clinical Significance of Commelina benghalensis

Introduction

Commelina benghalensis is a plant whose significance spans from being a nutritious weed to a cornerstone of traditional medicine in Africa and Asia. Its therapeutic identity is shaped by a rich profile of alkaloids, phenols, flavonoids, and other compounds that exert powerful diuretic, antioxidant, and antimicrobial effects. Modern research is beginning to provide a solid mechanistic basis for its traditional use in treating conditions ranging from eye infections and jaundice to diarrhoea and infertility.

1. Diuretic Activity

Key Compounds: Phenolic compounds and flavonoids.

Pharmacological Profile: Recent research has focused on validating the traditional use of the plant as a diuretic. An ethanol-soluble fraction derived from the aqueous extract of the aerial parts has demonstrated significant diuretic effects, likely mediated through mechanisms involving bradykinin and prostaglandins, as is commonly seen with natural diuretic agents. This activity supports its use in traditional medicine for flushing out toxins and managing conditions related to fluid retention.

Actions and Clinical Relevance:

· Promotes Urine Production: The diuretic effect helps increase urine flow, which is beneficial for managing kidney stones, hypertension, and urinary tract infections.

2. Hepatoprotective and Antioxidant Actions

Key Compounds: Flavonoids, alkaloids, and other phenolic compounds.

Pharmacological Profile: The plant has demonstrated the ability to attenuate hepatotoxicity by preserving hepatic mitochondrial activity. This hepatoprotective effect is likely due to its potent antioxidant properties, which help neutralise free radicals and reduce oxidative stress within the liver.

Actions and Clinical Relevance:

· Liver Protection: This validates the traditional use of the plant for treating jaundice and other liver disorders.

3. Anxiolytic and Antimicrobial Effects

Key Compounds: Alkaloids and flavonoids.

Pharmacological Profile: Some studies have reported the anxiolytic (anti-anxiety) effects of different fractions of C. benghalensis, providing scientific support for its traditional use as a mild depressant and nerve tonic. Its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties are well-documented, substantiating its use for a variety of infections and inflammatory conditions.

Actions and Clinical Relevance:

· Anxiolytic: The plant may modulate neurotransmitter activity, offering a calming effect. This suggests potential for managing stress and anxiety.

· Antimicrobial: These activities support the traditional use of the sap for eye and throat infections, and the leaf solution for diarrhoea.

An Integrated View of Healing in Commelina benghalensis

· For Liver and Digestive Health: The hepatoprotective and antidiarrheal effects of C. benghalensis make it a valuable remedy for conditions like jaundice and gastrointestinal disturbances. The combination of its antioxidant, antimicrobial, and astringent properties provides a comprehensive approach to treating these ailments.

· For Infections and Fertility: Its broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity justifies its topical use for eye and skin infections, while its traditional use for female infertility, though less understood, may relate to its anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties.

· For Diuresis and Fever: The validated diuretic effects, coupled with its antipyretic (fever-reducing) and anti-inflammatory properties, make it a useful plant for managing conditions like hypertension, malaria, and general febrile illness.

Toxicological Profile and Quality Control

Safety Profile: Commelina benghalensis is generally considered safe for use as a food and in traditional medicinal preparations. However, its use as animal feed in southern Africa has been restricted at times, as it is thought to cause a condition similar to measles in pigs, though this may be due to misidentification or regional variations in the plant's properties. Pregnant or nursing women should consult a qualified healthcare professional before use.

Quality Control Parameters: Pharmacognostic standards, such as ash values and extractive yields, have been established for the plant, providing a basis for ensuring the quality and consistency of herbal materials.

Conclusion: Commelina benghalensis is a remarkable herb that seamlessly integrates the worlds of nutrition, traditional medicine, and modern scientific inquiry. From its role as a valuable leafy vegetable to its widespread use in treating a wide array of ailments, it is a testament to the power of ethnobotanical knowledge. The rediscovery of its diuretic, hepatoprotective, and antimicrobial properties through rigorous research is a powerful tribute to traditional wisdom. Commelina benghalensis stands as a promising candidate for further research, particularly in the fields of hepatology, infectious diseases, and metabolic disorders, representing a vital link between folk tradition and modern pharmacological development.

Disclaimer:

Commelina benghalensis is generally considered safe for moderate use, but comprehensive safety data, particularly for concentrated extracts and long-term use, are still emerging. Pregnant or nursing women should consult a qualified healthcare professional before use. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using this plant for medicinal purposes. This information is for educational use only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.

8. Reference Books, Books for In-depth Study

· "Nature Heals: A Glossary of Selected Indigenous Medicinal Plants of India" by Anjaria et al. (2002) - for Indian traditional uses.

· "Plant Resources of Tropical Africa 2: Vegetables" (PROTA) - for taxonomic, distribution, and culinary details.

· "Flora of India" and "Flora of Tropical East Africa" - for botanical description and regional distribution.

· "Journal of Ethnopharmacology" (2025) - for molecular mechanisms of diuretic effects.

· "Plants" Journal (2021) - for detailed micromorphological, ultrastructural, and histochemical research.

· "Underexplored Medicinal Plants from Sub-Saharan Africa" (2020) - for a comprehensive review on its medicinal uses.

9. Further Study: Plants That Might Interest You Due to Similar Medicinal Properties

1. Boerhavia diffusa (Punarnava)

· Species: Boerhavia diffusa | Family: Nyctaginaceae

· Similarities: A highly valued herb in Ayurveda, known for its powerful diuretic and hepatoprotective properties. Like Commelina benghalensis, it is widely used for managing kidney and liver disorders.

2. Centella asiatica (Gotu Kola)

· Species: Centella asiatica | Family: Apiaceae

· Similarities: A herb known for its wound-healing and neuroprotective properties. It shares a similar use in traditional medicine for promoting cognition and healing, and like C. benghalensis, it is rich in bioactive triterpenoids.

3. Phyllanthus amarus (Bhumi Amla)

· Species: Phyllanthus amarus | Family: Phyllanthaceae

· Similarities: A well-known herb for its potent hepatoprotective and antiviral properties, particularly in treating jaundice and hepatitis B. It shares the key hepatoprotective actions of Commelina benghalensis.

4. Eclipta prostrata (Bhringraj)

· Species: Eclipta prostrata | Family: Asteraceae

· Similarities: A herb used in Ayurveda for its hepatoprotective and immunomodulatory properties. Like C. benghalensis, it is a common weed with significant medicinal value and is used in treating jaundice and boosting hair health.

-x-xEnd-x-x

PREHEALING

Commelina benghalensis (Commelinaceae) Bengal Dayflower, Tropical Spiderwort

Recent Posts

Comments