Phyllanthus (Phyllanthus amarus)

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Botanical Information

• Family: Phyllanthaceae (formerly Euphorbiaceae)
• Common Names: Phyllanthus, Bhui Amla, Stonebreaker, Gale of the Wind
• Parts Used: Whole plant (leaves, stems, roots, seeds)

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Description

Phyllanthus amarus, commonly known as stonebreaker or Bhui Amla, is a small herbaceous plant found in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide. It is widely used in Ayurvedic, Traditional Chinese, and Western herbal medicine for liver support, kidney health, and antiviral properties, particularly in managing hepatitis and urinary stones.

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Historical and Traditional Uses

• Used in Ayurvedic medicine for liver detoxification and to support bile production.
• Traditionally employed for urinary tract infections and kidney stones.
• Used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) to clear heat and resolve dampness.
• Applied as an antiviral for hepatitis B and C in folk medicine.
• Consumed as a digestive tonic to improve gut health and reduce bloating.

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Constituents

• Lignans (phyllanthin, hypophyllanthin)
• Alkaloids
• Flavonoids
• Tannins
• Saponins
• Essential oils

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Actions

• Hepatoprotective (Liver tonic)
• Diuretic
• Antiviral
• Antioxidant
• Anti-inflammatory
• Digestive tonic
• Antilithic (prevents kidney stones)

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Medicinal Uses

1. Liver Support and Detoxification:
Traditionally used to cleanse the liver, stimulate bile production, and support liver function in hepatitis and fatty liver conditions.

2. Kidney and Urinary Tract Health:
Acts as a diuretic, helping to flush out kidney stones, relieve urinary tract infections, and reduce water retention.

3. Antiviral Properties:
Studied for its effects in managing hepatitis B and C infections.

4. Digestive Support:
Used to reduce bloating, indigestion, and acidity in the stomach.

5. Blood Sugar Regulation:
Traditionally used to support blood sugar balance in diabetic care.

6. Skin and Wound Healing:
Applied topically for rashes, wounds, and inflammatory skin conditions.

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Preparation and Dosage

Infusion (Tea from Whole Plant):

• 1-2 tsp of dried plant material per cup of hot water. Steep for 10 minutes. Drink up to twice daily.

Tincture:

• 2-5 ml taken up to 3 times daily.

Poultice (Topical Use):

• Crushed fresh leaves applied to skin irritations or wounds.

Capsules/Powder:

• 500 mg – 2 grams daily as a supplement.

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Precautions and Contraindications

• Pregnancy and Lactation: Use with caution and consult a healthcare provider.
• Kidney Disorders: While traditionally used for kidney stones, it should be used with caution in individuals with chronic kidney disease.
• Blood Sugar Levels: May lower blood sugar; monitor levels if taking diabetic medication.
• Drug Interactions: May enhance the effects of diuretics, antiviral medications, and blood sugar-lowering drugs.

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Energetics (Traditional Medicine Perspectives)

• Ayurveda: Cooling and detoxifying; balances Pitta and Kapha, but may aggravate Vata in excess.
• Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM): Clears heat, resolves dampness, and supports liver and kidney health.
• Traditional Western Herbalism: Used for its hepatoprotective and detoxifying properties.

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Combinations

• For Liver Support: Combine with milk thistle and dandelion root.
• For Kidney Health: Combine with nettle and corn silk.
• For Digestive Health: Combine with ginger and fennel.

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Harvesting and Storage

• Harvesting: Whole plant is collected when mature and dried for medicinal use.
• Drying: Air dry in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight.
• Storage: Store dried plant material in airtight containers away from moisture and heat.

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Modern Research

Studies confirm Phyllanthus amarus’s hepatoprotective, antiviral, and kidney-supporting properties, reinforcing its traditional applications.

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Phyllanthus remains a valuable herb in both traditional and modern herbal medicine, particularly for liver detoxification, kidney health, and antiviral support.