Phyllanthus niruri grows as a weed in moist abandoned plots of land and is found in tropical and subtropical regions of the world. This herbaceous plant is revered for its various properties and has gained attention for its potential positive effects. In the Indian Ayurvedic system, it is known to work wonders on conditions like jaundice, ulcers, skin diseases, diabetes, chest pain, and urinary complications. Apart from these, the herb is used for treating other conditions like bronchitis, anemia, urinary disorders, leprosy, asthma, etc.
In the Chraka Samhita book of Ayurveda, Phyllanthus niruri in Hindi is said to be an effective ingredient in treating asthma, stimulating the liver, improving digestion, increasing appetite, and producing laxative effects. Maharshi Charaka has distinctively categorized it as Kasahara, one that relieves cough, Swasahara, one that alleviates asthma, mootrarogahara, one that cures urinary disorders, Kaphapittahara, one that relieves the kaphapitta dosha, Kaamalaahara, one that cures jaundice, and Bhava prakasa Nighantu, one that cures cough and blood disorders. It is bitter in taste but is sweet in the post-digestive effect (vipaka) and it is also used as an astringent. [1]
This article will delve deeper into the Phyllanthus niruri benefits, uses, dosage, side effects, and more regarding the Phyllanthus niruri fruit.
Phyllanthus niruri Benefits & Uses
Phyllanthus niruri benefits are immense, and they are often used as a natural remedy in various treatments.
1. Kidney Health
Phyllanthus niruri uses include its support for kidney health and promote the prevention and treatment of kidney stones. It is believed to help break down kidney stones, reduce the risk of stone formation, and promote the elimination of urinary calculi.
2. Liver Support
This herb may have hepato-protective properties, meaning it can support liver health and protect the liver against damage caused by toxins or oxidative stresses.
3. Pain relieving and Anti-inflammatory Effects
The plant has been traditionally used for its anti-inflammatory properties. It may help reduce inflammation and aid in wound healing by oral and topical administration.
4. Shows anti-malarial activity
This herbal plant also works effectively against malaria, especially with the extract from its stem. [1]
5. Antiviral and Immune Support
Some studies suggest that Phyllanthus niruri possesses antiviral properties, particularly against certain strains of hepatitis viruses. It also supports the immune system, potentially aiding in managing viral infections.
6. Anti-oxidative property
The antioxidant property of the herb works against several health issues like heart diseases, inflammation, cancer, arthritis, and neural disorders, to name a few. [2]
7. Anti-diabetic effect
The plant shows significant hypoglycemic activity and has also been found to reduce blood sugar levels.
8. Hyperlipidemic activity
The plant also has a lipid-lowering property and reduces serum triglycerides as well as free fatty acids in HFD.
9. Antiplasmodial activity
The plant has also shown anti plasmodial activity which helps inhibit the developmental stage of trophozoite to schizon. [5]
What are the side effects of Phyllanthus niruri?
When taken in recommended doses, Phyllanthus niruri is generally considered safe for most people. Researchers believe it is advisable for consumption and does not lead to significant adverse effects or serum metabolic changes. [3] However, when taken in high un-recommended dosages, it may lead to a rise in creatinine levels, which may indicate renal damage.[4]
What is the dosage recommendation for Phyllanthus niruri?
Dosage recommendations for Phyllanthus niruri can vary depending on the supplement type and the specific condition being addressed. Studies have also found that Phyllanthus niruri may have toxic effects at high doses. Hence, it should be ingested with precautions. [4]
FAQs about Phyllanthus niruri
1. What are the precautions that should be maintained with Phyllanthus niruri?
While Phyllanthus niruri is generally well-tolerated, it is important to exercise caution and consider the following precautions:
Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Limited research is available on the safety of Phyllanthus niruri during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Therefore, pregnant women or breastfeeding moms should consult a healthcare professional before using it.
Interactions with medications: Phyllanthus niruri may interact with certain medications, including diuretics, anti-diabetic drugs, and immunosuppressants. If you are taking on certain medications, it is highly essential to consult a healthcare professional to determine potential interactions and adjust dosages if necessary.
Allergies: Individuals with known allergies to Phyllanthus niruri or related plants should avoid its use.
2. How do people use Phyllanthus niruri?
Phyllanthus niruri leaves and extracts are usually consumed in the form of teas, and they are also available as supplement tablets.
3. Is Phyllanthus niruri good for hair growth?
Yes, Phyllanthus niruri is sometimes also used as a hair growth-promoting agent.
Conclusion
Phyllanthus niruri shows promising potential in various health aspects, especially in patients with baseline urinary metabolic disorders. Moreover, since it is abundant in several countries, it can help considerably reduce the health system expenses associated with conventional drugs, which becomes a burden for a country’s population, particularly if they have to undergo long-term treatment. This article has introduced us to the several uses and benefits of the Phyllanthus niruri fruit and its dosage, and possible side effects.
Disclaimer:
This article is written from a health and wellness perspective and is not medical advice. Kindly seek the help of a certified medical practitioner before initiating any treatment.
References:
- Phyllanthus niruri: A Review on its Ethno Botanical, Phytochemical and Pharmacological Profile
- A mini review on therapeutic potentials of Phyllanthus niruri L
- Effect of phyllanthus niruri on metabolic parameters of patients with kidney stone: a perspective for disease prevention
- Acute toxicity study of Phyllanthus niruri and its effect on the cyto-architectural structure of nephrocytes in Swiss albino mice Mus-musculus
- Review on pharmacological activities and phytochemical constituents of Phyllanthus niruri (Amarus)
