Phyllanthus (Phyllanthus niruri)
Common names: Bahupatra, bhuiamla
Parts used and where grown: Phyllanthus is an herb common to central and southern India. It can grow to 30-60 centimeters in height and blooms with many yellow flowers. All parts of the plant are employed therapeutically. Phyllanthus species are also found in other countries, including China (e.g., Phyllanthus urinaria), the Philippines, Cuba, Nigeria, and Guam.1
In what conditions might phyllanthus be supportive?
Historical or traditional use: Phyllanthus has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for over 2,000 years and has a wide number of traditional uses. This includes employing the whole plant for jaundice, gonorrhea, frequent menstruation, and diabetes and using it topically as a poultice for skin ulcers, sores, swelling, and itchiness. The young shoots of the plant are administered in the form of an infusion for the treatment of chronic dysentery.2
Active constituents: Phyllanthus primarily contains lignans (e.g., phyllanthine and hypophyllanthine), alkaloids, and bioflavonoids (e.g., quercetin). While it remains unknown as to which of these ingredients has an anti-viral effect, research shows that this herb acts primarily on the liver. This action in the liver confirms its historical use as a remedy for jaundice.
Phyllanthus blocks DNA polymerase, the enzyme needed for the hepatitis B virus to reproduce. Fifty-nine percent of those infected with chronic viral hepatitis B lost one of the major blood markers of HBV infection (e.g., hepatitis B surface antigen) after using phyllanthus for thirty days.3 While clinical studies on the outcome of phyllanthus and HBV have been mixed, the species P. urinaria and P. niruri seem to work far better than P. amarus.4
How much should I take? Research has utilized the powdered form of phyllanthus in amounts ranging from 900–2,700 mg per day for three months.
Are there any side effects or interactions? No side effects have been reported using phyllanthus as recommended.
Special United Kingdom Considerations: Phyllanthus is either not available or may require a prescription. Please check with your nutritionally oriented physician.
References:
1. Bharatiya VB. Selected Medicinal Plants of India. Bombay: Tata
Press, 1992, 235–7.
2. Nadkarmi KM. India Materia Medica Vol 1. Bombay: Popular Prakashan Private Ltd,
1993, 947–8.
3. Thyagarajan SP, Subramanian S, Thirunalasundar T, et al. Effect of Phyllanthus
amarus on chronic carriers of hepatitis B virus. Lancet 1988: ii:764–6.
4. Meixa W, Haowei C, Yanjin L, et al. Herbs of the genus Phyllanathus in the
treatment of chronic hepatitis B: observation with three preparations from different
geographic sites. J Lab Clin Med. 1995; 126:350–52.
Copyright © 1998 Virtual Health, LLC
It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over-the-counter medication is also available. Consult your physician, nutritionally-oriented health care practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications.The information presented in HealthNotes Online is for informational purposes only.