Bidens Pilosa
Bidens pilosa
A common weed, also called blackjack or Spanish needles, studied widely in Africa, Asia and South America. Lab and animal studies show antioxidant activity and may help reduce inflammation.
Safety at a glance
- PregnancyNothing recorded
- BreastfeedingNothing recorded
- MedicinesNothing recorded
- Who should avoid itNothing recorded
- AllergiesNothing recorded
- ToxicityNothing recorded
Tap a box to read the safety notes below. “Nothing recorded” means our sources don't cover it, not that it's safe.
What is Bidens Pilosa?
- Plant family
- Asteraceae, the daisy family
- Parts used
- The leaves and whole plant
- Where it grows
- The Americas; now a common weed throughout the tropics
- Genus
- Bidens
- Species
- pilosa
Also called
Blackjack, Spanish Needles, Beggar's Ticks
Traditionally used for
- Inflammation
Traditionally described as
- Antioxidant
- May help reduce inflammation (in lab studies)
What does the research say?
Laboratory & animal research
Lab and animal results show what might be worth studying in people. They don't show that the herb has these effects in humans.
A 2025 review of 50 studies, mostly from Africa, Asia and South America, found Bidens pilosa consistently showed antioxidant activity and may help reduce inflammation. Most studies were in the lab or in animals; only 2 involved people. It lowered several inflammation signals and raised the body's own antioxidant glutathione.[1]Review or trial
Technical detail: reduced TNF, IL-6, IL-1β, IL-8 and malondialdehyde.
In short
Few studies in people.
Sources
- [1] Exploring the phytochemical profile, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory potential of Bidens pilosa: A Systematic Review · DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2025.1569527Review or clinical trial
This information is educational and traditional in nature, and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Unfamiliar word? See what these words mean.