About this ingredient
Ingredients
Phyllanthus niruri is a botanical herb traditionally used in Ayurvedic and other herbal practices. Preparations may be made from the leaves, stems, roots, or whole aerial plant, depending on the product. The plant contains naturally occurring lignans, flavonoids, tannins, alkaloids, phenolic compounds, and other phytochemicals. The exact plant part, extract ratio, concentration, and active-compound profile vary by manufacturer.
Phyllanthus niruri is a small herb belonging to the Phyllanthaceae family and is widely used in traditional herbal systems. It is commonly known by names such as chanca piedra or “stone breaker,” although common names can sometimes be applied to different Phyllanthus species, so the botanical name should be checked carefully.
The plant contains a variety of naturally occurring phytochemicals, including lignans, flavonoids, tannins, alkaloids, and phenolic compounds. Different plant parts and extraction methods can produce preparations with substantially different chemical profiles.
Phyllanthus niruri is traditionally associated with urinary and kidney wellness, digestive wellness, and general botanical nutrition. Scientific research has investigated the plant and its constituents in several areas, but evidence in humans varies and is not sufficient to treat Phyllanthus niruri as a proven treatment for kidney stones, liver disease, infections, or other medical conditions.
Phyllanthus niruri supplements may be available as whole-herb powder, capsules, tablets, teas, liquid extracts, or standardized botanical extracts. Because herbal preparations can vary considerably, consumers should check the botanical name, plant part, extract ratio, serving size, and additional ingredients. General guidance from NCCIH also emphasizes that herbal products can have medication interactions and that “natural” does not automatically mean safe.