Bidens pilosa, also known as blackjack or Spanish needle, is a medicinal plant traditionally used to help treat urinary tract infections, joint pain, diabetes, high blood pressure, malaria, stomach pain, and herpes.
Although it has many reported uses, Bidens pilosa should only be taken under medical supervision, as there are few studies confirming its short- or long-term effects in humans.
Bidens pilosa can be found in health food stores, herbal markets, and some supermarkets. This plant grows mainly in warm regions of South America and is very common in Brazil.
Indications for use
Bidens pilosa may help:
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Support malaria treatment, as it can inhibit the growth and spread of Plasmodium species, the parasite that causes malaria;
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Assist in treating herpes, due to its antimicrobial properties, particularly against herpes simplex virus types 1 and 2;
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Fight urinary tract infections, thanks to its antibacterial activity against the bacteria responsible for these infections;
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Help prevent cancer, since it has antioxidant properties and may inhibit the growth of tumor cells, although more studies are needed to confirm this effect;
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Support diabetes prevention, as it can help regulate blood insulin levels;
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Help prevent high blood pressure, as it’s rich in flavonoids and antioxidants that promote blood pressure regulation and muscle relaxation;
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Relieve allergy symptoms, because it can inhibit histamine release, which is associated with allergic reactions;
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Reduce inflammation, making it useful for helping relieve joint pain and sore throat by regulating inflammatory cytokines;
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Support gastrointestinal health, as Bidens pilosa extract can reduce gastric juice volume and acid and pepsin secretion, while also showing anti-ulcer properties.
Although Bidens pilosa has several potential benefits, more human studies are needed to confirm its effects. Most findings come from animal research. Therefore, it should only be used under medical guidance and should not replace prescribed medical treatment.
Medicinal properties
Bidens pilosa has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antidiabetic, antimicrobial, antiallergic, antihypertensive, and muscle relaxant properties. These effects are linked to its high concentration of flavonoids, phenolic compounds, phytosterols, and glycosides.
Despite its possible benefits, Bidens pilosa should never replace treatment prescribed by a healthcare provider. It should only be used with guidance from a healthcare provider or licensed herbalist.
How to use
Bidens pilosa can be used as an extract or prepared as a tea, infusion, or compress, depending on a healthcare provider's recommendation and the intended use. The aerial parts of the plant, mainly the leaves and stems, are typically used.
1. Bidens pilosa tea
Bidens pilosa tea is the most common way to use this plant and is often prepared to help with stomach problems, hepatitis, diabetes, or high blood pressure.
Ingredients
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½ cup of dried Bidens pilosa;
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2 cups (½ L) of water.
Directions
Place the dried leaves and stems in a pan with the water and bring to a boil for 10 to 15 minutes. Strain and drink 1 cup, 4 to 6 times a day.
2. Warm compresses
Warm compresses made with Bidens pilosa infusion can help soothe joint pain and muscle pain.
Prepare the infusion as for the tea, let it cool until warm, soak a clean gauze or cloth in the liquid, and apply it over sore joints or muscles.
Side effects
Because few human studies have been conducted on the short- and long-term effects of Bidens pilosa, no side effects have been clearly documented.
For this reason, Bidens pilosa should only be used under medical supervision or by someone experienced in medicinal plants.
Contraindications for use
Bidens pilosa is not recommended for people with heart problems, hypoglycemia, or allergies to caffeine or similar compounds. It should also be avoided by people who are pregnant or breastfeeding and should not be given to children.
People with diabetes who take medication should only use Bidens pilosa under medical guidance, as it may enhance or interfere with the effects of diabetes medications.