Eclipta Prostrata Leaf Extract: What Is It, Cosmetic Uses, Benefits & Side Effects

Curious about this ingredient? In this article we're explaining exactly what it is and why it's used within cosmetic formulations.
Updated on: June 27, 2025
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We verify all information on this page using publicly available nomenclature standards from The Personal Care Products Council (PCPC), the European Commission's CosIng database and documentation provided directly by ingredient manufacturers. Our analysis is based on technical data from these sources to ensure accuracy and reliability.

What Is Eclipta Prostrata Leaf Extract?

Eclipta Prostrata Leaf Extract comes from the leaves of Eclipta prostrata, a small flowering plant in the daisy family often called false daisy or bhringraj. The leaves are packed with flavonoids, coumestans such as wedelolactone, triterpenoids and a mix of trace minerals that give the plant its soothing and antioxidant reputation. Long valued in traditional beauty rituals across Asia, the extract moved into modern skin care when formulators noticed its calming effect on stressed skin and its knack for boosting the feel of softness.

To make the extract, growers harvest the leaves, dry and grind them, then soak the powder in a skin-friendly solvent like water, glycerin or propanediol. The liquid pulls out the beneficial compounds, is filtered to remove plant solids and finally standardized so each batch offers consistent potency.

Today you can spot Eclipta Prostrata Leaf Extract in a range of leave-on and rinse-off products including soothing masks, daily moisturizers, anti-aging serums, after-sun gels and scalp tonics. Brands add it when they want a gentle plant-based booster that helps the skin look and feel calm, smooth and healthy.

Eclipta Prostrata Leaf Extract’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

In skin care formulas Eclipta Prostrata Leaf Extract serves one main purpose: skin conditioning. By bathing skin in lightweight plant compounds, the extract helps maintain a soft supple surface, supports the skin’s natural barrier and brings a touch of antioxidant protection that can make the complexion look fresher and more even.

Who Can Use Eclipta Prostrata Leaf Extract

Eclipta Prostrata Leaf Extract is generally well tolerated by all major skin types including oily, dry, combination and sensitive skin. Its calming profile and lack of heavy oils make it unlikely to clog pores or provoke excess shine. People with extremely reactive or allergy-prone skin should still pay attention to how their skin responds, as even gentle botanicals can occasionally cause issues for that group.

Because the extract is entirely plant derived and no animal by-products are involved in its production, it fits comfortably into vegan and vegetarian routines.

No specific warnings exist for pregnant or breastfeeding women when the ingredient is used topically at the low levels seen in cosmetics. Still, safety data in these groups is limited, so this information is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should show the full product ingredient list to a qualified healthcare provider before use just to be safe.

The extract is not known to trigger photosensitivity, so it does not make skin more prone to sunburn. Everyday sun protection is still wise, but you do not need to add extra precautions solely because of this ingredient.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Side effects from topical Eclipta Prostrata Leaf Extract can vary from person to person. The points below cover potential reactions, most of which are unlikely for the average user when the ingredient is correctly formulated in a product.

  • Mild redness or stinging on application
  • Itchy rash or hives in people allergic to plants in the daisy family
  • Localized dryness or flaking if the product contains a high level of alcohol-based solvents
  • Eye irritation if the product migrates into the eyes

If you experience any discomfort swelling or persistent irritation after using a product with Eclipta Prostrata Leaf Extract stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 0 (non-comedogenic)

Eclipta Prostrata Leaf Extract is almost entirely made of water-soluble flavonoids, coumestans and trace minerals rather than heavy oils or waxes that can block pores. Its lightweight profile means it sits on the skin without forming an occlusive film, so it does not trap sebum or dead cells that could spark breakouts. This makes the extract suitable for acne-prone and congestion-prone skin.

As always overall pore friendliness depends on the full formula. If the product pairs the extract with rich butters or comedogenic silicones the final blend could still clog pores even though the extract itself will not.

Summary

Eclipta Prostrata Leaf Extract is a plant-based skin conditioner that calms irritation, supports the moisture barrier and supplies gentle antioxidant backup. It performs these duties through naturally occurring flavonoids and coumestans that soothe surface redness while helping skin hold on to water for a softer feel.

The ingredient is moderately popular, showing up most often in K-beauty serums, soothing masks and scalp treatments rather than mass-market lines. Its mild nature and vegan origin make it appealing to formulators looking for a botanical touch that agrees with most skin types.

Current data points to a high safety profile with low allergy risk when used topically at cosmetic levels. Even so every skin is unique so it is wise to patch test any new product containing Eclipta Prostrata Leaf Extract before applying it all over the face or body.

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