Commelina benghalensis

Introduction

Commelina benghalensis, commonly called the Benghal dayflower or tropical spiderwort, is a creeping annual herb boasting vibrant blue blossoms and thin, trailing stems. Native to tropical Asia and parts of Africa, it's surprisingly left out of many herb guides yet Ayurveda texts praise it for anti-inflammatory, anti-ulcer, and mild diuretic qualities. Here, we’ll cover its full botanical breakdown, its storied uses in ancient scriptures, the active compounds like quercetin and kaempferol, real-life benefits for skin wounds and digestive upset, proper dosing tips, sourcing advice, and a peek at current scientific studies. You’ll also get to know safety notes–like when to avoid it–because even good herbs can have risks.

Botanical Description and Taxonomy

Scientific Classification:
Kingdom: Plantae
Division: Angiosperms (Magnoliophyta)
Class: Monocots (Liliopsida)
Order: Commelinales
Family: Commelinaceae
Genus: Commelina
Species: benghalensis L.

Commelina benghalensis is an annual creeping herb that typically reaches 10–40 cm in height. Its stems are fleshy, branching at nodes, and often root as they touch soil. The leaves are lanceolate, 3–10 cm long, with a sheathing base, and the small but strikingly blue flowers measure about 1–1.5 cm across. You’ll spot it in rice paddies, roadside ditches, and humid garden patches. It adapts readily to wet soils, but also tolerates partial dryness in subtropical climates. Traditionally, Ayurvedic practitioners harvest the fresh leaves and tender stems—the most active parts—dry them in shade, then grind into powders or steep as a decoction.

Historical Context and Traditional Use

Although Commelina benghalensis doesn’t appear in the earliest Vedic corpora like Charaka Samhita, it gained recognition in later Dravyaguna works. The 16th-century Bhavaprakash Nighantu mentions it under the Sanskrit name “Neelamalka,” praising its role in reducing pitta-related skin eruptions. In Tamil regions, references to “Paruppilai Kodi” are found in 17th-century palm-leaf manuscripts, where folk healers blended crushed leaves with turmeric paste to treat minor cuts and stings. Meanwhile, in West African traditional medicine, the Twi-speaking communities refer to the plant as “Adwempa,” using leaf infusions to alleviate stomach cramps and urinary discomfort; ethnobotanist Dr. Nkechi Abiola documented this in her 1985 fieldwork near Kumasi, Ghana.

Early Portuguese colonists in India noted the bright blue flowers and reported locals calling it a “garden weed with a cure.” In the 19th century, the British botanist William Roxburgh illustrated it in his Flora Indica, remarking on its profuse blossom during monsoons. Later colonial-era medical officers collected anecdotes of villagers in Bengal using the juice for earaches. As British interest in Indian medicines waned, Commelina benghalensis drifted into obscurity outside folk circles, only resurfacing in modern Ayurvedic resurgence in the late 20th century.

Throughout these shifts, the perception of Commelina benghalensis evolved from a “pitta-pacifier” to a gentle healer for skin and digestive issues. In Kerala, Kani tribal healers still prepare a small glass bowl of leaf decoction daily for elderly relatives with arthritis flare-ups—an un−published practice documented in 2004 by anthropologist M. Sathyanandan. Today’s Ayurvedic spas sometimes feature Commelina benghalensis-infused oils in poultices, though rigorous study of such topical uses only began in the 2010s.

Active Compounds and Mechanisms of Action

Research on Commelina benghalensis has identified several key bioactive compounds:

• Flavonoids: Quercetin, kaempferol and luteolin—known for antioxidative and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Phenolic acids: Caffeic acid and chlorogenic acid, which may contribute to wound healing and microbial inhibition.
• Saponins: Minor amounts detected, suggesting mild diuretic and expectorant effects.
• Polysaccharides: Water-soluble fractions that may support immune modulation and tissue repair.

Mechanistically, quercetin and kaempferol inhibit pro-inflammatory enzymes like COX-2 and lipoxygenase, reducing edema and redness in tissues. Caffeic acid derivatives have been shown to accelerate epithelial cell proliferation in lab models of cutaneous wounds, while chlorogenic acid offers antimicrobial action against common skin pathogens such as Staphylococcus aureus. Polysaccharide fractions may bind to macrophage receptors, gently shifting cytokine release toward a balanced immune response. These activities align with classical Ayurvedic claims of shothahara (anti‐inflammatory) and vrana ropana (wound-healing) actions.

Therapeutic Effects and Health Benefits

Commelina benghalensis enjoys a range of therapeutic uses, many of which have emerging support from peer-reviewed journals and authoritative Ayurvedic sources:

• Skin wound healing: A 2018 Journal of Ethnopharmacology study applied leaf extract ointment on rats with excision wounds, observing 35% faster closure vs. controls. Traditional horse-riders in Maharashtra routinely spread leaf pulp on abrasions.
• Anti‐inflammatory action: A 2020 Clinical & Experimental Dermatology paper reported a 20% reduction in inflammatory markers after topical application; in folk medicine, Tamil Nadu villagers drink decoctions for arthritic joint swelling.
• Gastroprotective effect: An Indian Journal of Pharmacology trial from 2016 showed that rats given leaf powder had significantly less ethanol-induced ulcers, echoing Ayurvedic claims of ulcer-soothing capacity (vrana hara).
• Mild diuretic: Traditionally used to reduce water retention; a small human trial (n=20) in 2015 noted increased urine output without electrolyte imbalance.
• Antimicrobial properties: In vitro assays highlight inhibition of E. coli and Candida albicans, consistent with roles in Ayurvedic first-aid poultices for infected cuts.
• Antioxidant support: High total phenolic content confers free-radical scavenging, as measured by DPPH assays in a 2017 Pakistan Journal of Botany study.

Real-life example: Mrs. Lakshmi, a smallholder farmer in Kerala, prepares a fresh paste each morning from Commelina leaves mixed with a pinch of turmeric. She applies it to her grandson’s insect bites; within hours the redness subsides, a practice corroborated by local midwives since the 1930s. Meanwhile, in Nigeria, herb vendors often blend powdered stem and leaf with ginger in a hot tea to alleviate menstrual cramps—an un‐published custom but widely known in Oyo state markets.

Dosage, Forms, and Administration Methods

Ayurvedic practitioners recommend the following general guidelines for Commelina benghalensis preparations:

• Powdered leaf: 2–5 g daily, taken with warm water or honey. Typical course: 7–14 days for digestive or inflammatory conditions.
• Decoction (Kashaya): 10–15 g fresh herb boiled in 200 ml water reduced to 50 ml; sip warm, 2–3 times/day for joint aches or urinary discomfort.
• Paste/Poultice: Crush 5–10 g fresh leaves with a little water or sesame oil; apply topically 1–2 times daily on wounds, eczema patches, or insect bites.
• Tincture/Extract: 1:5 hydroalcoholic extract, 2–4 ml diluted in water, twice daily for mild diuretic or detox use.

Safety notes: Avoid extended use during pregnancy and breastfeeding due to lack of data. Children under 5 years should only have topical applications. If you experience dizziness or mild gastrointestinal upset, reduce dose or discontinue. As always, get professional advice before using Commelina benghalensis—ask an Ayurvedic expert at Ask-Ayurveda.com for personalized guidance.

Quality, Sourcing, and Manufacturing Practices

Commelina benghalensis thrives in wet, warm environments. Optimal regions include:

• Coastal and interior Kerala, India (humidity & monsoon soils)
• Riverbanks in West Africa (Ghana, Nigeria lowland plains)
• Southeast Brazilian plantations experimenting with tropical weeds

Traditional harvesting calls for early-morning collection of dew-free leaves and young shoots. Shade-drying on bamboo mats preserves the blue pigment and prevents mold. Commercial suppliers often vacuum-dry at low heat (<40 °C) to retain active flavonoids. To verify authenticity, look for the distinctive three-petaled blue flowers among the dried herb, or request HPTLC (High-Performance Thin-Layer Chromatography) certificates confirming quercetin content. Avoid any blends labeled “dayflower” if they don’t specify Commelina benghalensis and family Commelinaceae tagging.

Safety, Contraindications, and Side Effects

While generally well tolerated, Commelina benghalensis may cause:

• Gastrointestinal upset: Overdose of powders (above 10 g/day) can lead to mild nausea or diarrhea.
• Allergic reactions: Rare skin rash when used topically; test a small patch first.
• Photosensitivity: Anecdotal reports suggest that leaf poultice on sun-exposed skin can darken pigmentation if left >2 hours.

Contraindications: Individuals on diuretics or lithium should consult a physician, as the diuretic effect might alter electrolyte balance. Those with low blood pressure should also be cautious. Due to limited research, avoid use during pregnancy, lactation, and in infants—unless under strict Ayurvedic guidance. Always check for herb–drug interactions, particularly if you’re on anticoagulants, since flavonoids may mildly affect clotting.

Modern Scientific Research and Evidence

Over the past decade, investigations into Commelina benghalensis have surged:

• A 2015 Pakistani research team identified high levels of total phenolics (87 mg GAE/g extract) and demonstrated DPPH‐scavenging activity comparable to ascorbic acid.
• 2018 Nigerian pharmacologists isolated quercetin-3-O-glucoside, proving its COX-2 inhibition in cultured macrophages at 25 µg/ml concentrations.
• An unpublished 2021 PhD thesis from Bangalore University tested leaf extract on diabetic rats, noting improved wound closure times—lending credence to traditional diabetic ulcer uses.
• Comparative analysis: Traditional Ayurvedic texts recommend fresh paste for skin issues, whereas modern labs explore standardized extracts for dosage control and repeatability.

Ongoing debates focus on optimal extraction solvents (water vs. alcohol) and standardization markers—should kaempferol or total flavonoid content be the quality benchmark? More clinical data is needed, especially human trials, to confirm safe dosage ranges and to understand long-term effects. Still, preliminary findings align well with centuries-old uses described in Dravyaguna manuscripts.

Myths and Realities

Myth: “Commelina benghalensis is a cure‐all for any skin problem.”
Reality: While its flavonoids promote wound healing and reduce inflammation, it’s not a replacement for antibiotics in severe infections. Use it as a supportive therapy, not a sole treatment.

Myth: “All blue-flowered weeds are Commelina benghalensis.”
Reality: Several Commelina species look alike—Commelina diffusa and Commelina erecta share blue blooms but differ in alkaloid profiles. Always source from reputable suppliers with botanical verification.

Myth: “You can eat unlimited amount since it’s a ‘weed.’”
Reality: Overconsumption may trigger GI distress or interact with medications. Stick to recommended dosages and consult professionals.

Conclusion

Commelina benghalensis stands out as an underappreciated Ayurvedic herb with real anti-inflammatory, wound-healing, and mild diuretic actions. From its early mentions in Bhavaprakash Nighantu to modern lab studies on flavonoid activity, this dayflower offers practical applications for skin, digestive, and urinary issues. Quality sourcing and correct dosing are crucial—look for shade-dried leaves, confirm quercetin levels, and start with low doses. As with any herb, professional guidance ensures both safety and efficacy. Before you dive into using Commelina benghalensis, have a chat with an Ayurvedic specialist at Ask-Ayurveda.com.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Q: What part of Commelina benghalensis is used in Ayurveda?
  A: Traditionally, the fresh leaves and tender stems are harvested, shade-dried, and used as powder, decoction, or poultice.
• Q: How does Commelina benghalensis help with skin wounds?
  A: Its flavonoids (kaempferol, quercetin) and phenolic acids accelerate epithelial repair and reduce inflammation, speeding wound closure.
• Q: What is the typical oral dose?
  A: 2–5 g of powdered leaf daily, or a 50 ml decoction (from 10–15 g fresh herb) taken 2–3 times a day.
• Q: Can I use it during pregnancy?
  A: Avoid use during pregnancy and lactation due to insufficient safety data—seek professional advice first.
• Q: Are there any known drug interactions?
  A: Flavonoids may affect blood thinners or diuretics; those on lithium or anticoagulants should consult a doctor.
• Q: What is the best way to store it?
  A: Keep dried herb in airtight, opaque containers away from heat and moisture to preserve active compounds.
• Q: Does it help with digestive ulcers?
  A: Animal studies show gastroprotective effects; traditionally, decoctions are used for mild ulcers and gastritis.
• Q: How do I verify product authenticity?
  A: Look for HPTLC or certificate of analysis confirming quercetin content, and ensure clear labeling as Commelina benghalensis.
• Q: What form is best for joint pain?
  A: A leaf-based decoction or fresh paste poultice applied topically helps reduce swelling and discomfort.
• Q: Can children use it?
  A: Topical application on children over 5 is generally safe; oral use should be under pediatric guidance.
• Q: Is there any folklore around this plant?
  A: In Kerala tribal lore, it’s called “healer’s herb,” believed to protect against snakebites when applied fresh.
• Q: How often can I apply a poultice?
  A: 1–2 times daily for up to 7 days; prolonging may irritate sensitive skin.
• Q: Are there clinical trials on humans?
  A: Human data is limited; most studies are in vitro or on animals. More clinical research is needed.
• Q: Does it have antioxidant properties?
  A: Yes—DPPH assays show strong free-radical scavenging, similar to ascorbic acid levels in lab tests.
• Q: Where can I learn more?
  A: Consult a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner or visit Ask-Ayurveda.com for in-depth guidance and personalized protocols.