Bidens pilosa
Bidens pilosa
Bidens pilosa, commonly known as beggarticks or bur marigold, is a plant traditionally used in various folk medicine practices. While its specific traditional uses are not well-documented, it is part of the Asteraceae family and is reported to be used for different conditions in Tanzania. Scientific evidence suggests that Bidens pilosa exhibits bioactive properties, particularly showing moderate pathogen clearance and promoting growth recovery in chickens infected with Mycoplasma gallisepticum. However, more research is needed to confirm these findings across a broader range of applications. No major safety concerns or drug interactions have been recorded for this plant, indicating that it may generally be safe when used as traditionally practiced.
- Best evidence
- A
- Cautions
- —
Informational only. Traditional use does not mean proven effectiveness. Evidence and safety vary — check the cited sources.
What the science says
- Bidens pilosa showed a marked bioactive profile among studied indigenous leafy vegetables from the Congo Basin.
- The ethanol extract from Artemisia frigida, particularly 4-ethyloctanoic acid, showed significant inhibitory effects on the seed germination and growth of several invasive plant species.
- The review found that 73 Asteraceae species, including Bidens pilosa, are used in traditional healing in Tanzania for various conditions.
- Bidens pilosa showed moderate pathogen clearance and promoted growth recovery in chickens infected with Mycoplasma gallisepticum.
Frequently asked questions
What is Bidens pilosa?
Bidens pilosa (Bidens pilosa) is a plant documented in FolkKB's traditional-medicine reference, drawn from sourced literature and cross-checked against the evidence.
What does the scientific evidence say about Bidens pilosa?
4 sourced findings are recorded for Bidens pilosa; the strongest carries evidence grade A. For example: Bidens pilosa showed a marked bioactive profile among studied indigenous leafy vegetables from the Congo Basin.
How strong is the evidence for Bidens pilosa?
The strongest finding for Bidens pilosa carries evidence grade A — strong evidence. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is Bidens pilosa safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for Bidens pilosa in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does Bidens pilosa interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for Bidens pilosa in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
Is Bidens pilosa a proven treatment?
No. FolkKB is informational only. Traditional use and early findings are not proof of efficacy or safety — consult a qualified professional and never self-treat.
Sources
- T2 Ethnomedicinal Evidence for Medicinal Plants of the Asteraceae Family Used by Tanzanians to Treat Various Ailments: A Review. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Evaluation and Analysis of the Efficacy of Four Chinese Herbal Medicines and Formulations in Preventing and Treating Mycoplasma gallisepticum Infection in Chickens. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Allelopathic Effects of Compounds from the Ethanol Extract of Artemisia frigida on Five Invasive Alien Plants. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Nutritional, mineral, and bioactive composition of indigenous leafy vegetables from the Congo Basin: A systematic review and meta-analysis. literature abstract metadata