Eclipta (Han Lian Cao): The Yin-Nourishing Herb You’re Missing

Eclipta (Han Lian Cao) | Benefits, TCM Use, Tea Recipe & Trusted Herbal Source

Quick Facts on Eclipta (Han Lian Cao)

• Pinyin Name: Han Lian Cao

• Botanical Name: Eclipta prostrata

• Chinese Category: Tonify Yin

• Taste & Temperature: Sweet, sour, cool

• Meridians Entered: Liver, Kidney

• Key Actions: Nourishes liver and kidney yin, cools the blood, supports hair and skin health

TCM Theory: Why Eclipta Works in Chinese Medicine

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Han Lian Cao is known for replenishing Liver and Kidney Yin, which is essential for maintaining strong bones, healthy hair, calm spirit, and hormonal balance. It is often used when there are signs of yin deficiency—like dizziness, tinnitus, premature graying hair, or dry skin.

Unlike hot, stimulating herbs, Eclipta is cooling and nourishing—it brings moisture, restoration, and calm to the system.

What the Science Says

Modern research has explored Eclipta’s traditional roles with growing interest:

• Liver protection: A study published in Journal of Ethnopharmacology found that Eclipta exhibits hepatoprotective effects, helping shield liver cells from chemical damage.

• Hair growth and melanin support: Animal studies support Eclipta’s traditional use for reducing hair loss and premature graying.

• Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties: Eclipta contains flavonoids and wedelolactone, which have been shown to reduce oxidative stress.

See PubMed links at the bottom of this page for full studies.

Suggested Use & Preparation

Typical Dosage

• Dried Herb Decoction: 9–15g daily

• Powder/Extract: 1–2 grams daily, mixed in warm water or tea

Recipe Example – Eclipta Hair & Liver Tea
A gentle herbal tea to nourish Liver and Kidney yin.

• 1 tbsp Han Lian Cao (dried)

• 1 tsp Gou Qi Zi (goji berries) – optional

• 12 oz hot water

• Simmer 15–20 minutes, strain, and drink 1–2x daily

Don’t Just Guess. Feel the Results.

Customer Testimonials

“I started using Han Lian Cao to help with hair thinning and dry eyes. After just 2 weeks, I noticed better sleep and more shine to my hair.” – Marcia J., AZ

“This is my go-to yin tonic when I feel burned out and dry inside. It’s gentle but effective.” – Ray W., Oregon

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FAQs About Eclipta (Han Lian Cao)

Q: Can Eclipta be used long-term?
A: Yes, when used appropriately and under supervision, Eclipta is safe for long-term support of yin deficiency.

Q: Is it only for hair problems?
A: No, it also supports liver detox, hormone balance, and cooling inflammation internally.

Q: Can it be used alone?
A: While you can use it alone, it’s most effective when combined in formulas like Er Zhi Wan with Nu Zhen Zi.

Q: Is Eclipta safe for pets?
A: Some herbal veterinarians use Eclipta for liver support in pets, but dosage should always be guided by a vet.

Why This Herb Still Matters

✅ A Legacy of Longevity – Eclipta has been used for centuries to nourish yin and restore balance after heat or deficiency burns out the body.

✅ Gentle, Cooling, Replenishing – For those who feel dry, stressed, overheated, or hormonally out of sync, this herb restores without overstimulating.

✅ Modern Science Confirms – Its anti-inflammatory and liver-protective actions are now validated in studies.

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Review Eclipta Herb Forms and Sizes Below

Common Names:   Eclipta Herb, Herba ecliptae, Bhringraja, False Fairy, Mo Han Lian, Wu Tian Cao
Botanical Name:  Eclipta prostrata, Herba
Chinese / Pin Yin Name:  Han Lian Cao    
Eclipta Herb Dosage:  Consult your healthcare provider for your correct dose.
Eclipta Herb Precautions:  Do not use if pregnant or nursing.  Do not use in cases of spleen deficient weak digestion (pixu).
Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new herbal regimen.

Eclipta Herb Benefits & Information

Eclipta herb is a traditional Chinese medicinal herb to nourish the liver and kidneys, cool the blood and stop bleeding.  Eclipta herb can be used as a liver tonic, supports a healthy digestive system, benefits urinary health, supports hair health, benefits respiratory health and promotes eye health.  It has analgesic, diuretic, cooling, relaxant, antioxidant and immune boosting effects.
Eclipta Herb Properties:  Sweet, Sour, Cool 
Channels / Meridians:  Kidney, Liver
Eclipta Herb Naturally Occurring Components:  apigenin, luteolin, quercetin, ecliptine, echinocysitic acid, wedelic acid

Herbs That Combine With Eclipta Herb

Licorice     Turmeric     White Peony     Glossy Privet Fruit     Shi Chang Pu

References
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8615741/

https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/pharmacology-toxicology-and-pharmaceutical-science/eclipta

https://examine.com/supplements/eclipta-alba/

Hepatoprotective activity of Eclipta prostrata

Hair growth promoting activity of Eclipta alba extract

Antioxidant potential of Eclipta alba