Phyllanthus (Chanca Piedra) Supplement Information and Usage Guide

Phyllanthus is An herb traditionally used for liver health, supporting kidney function, and aiding digestion.

Phyllanthus (Phyllanthus niruri), often called Chanca Piedra or “stone breaker,” is a tropical plant used in traditional Ayurvedic and Amazonian medicine for kidney and liver health.

It contains lignans, flavonoids, and alkaloids believed to support urinary tract function, reduce kidney stones, and protect liver cells. It is commonly taken as tea or capsule.

Chanca Piedra is used for kidney stones, liver detox, and urinary comfort. Some clinical studies suggest potential benefits, but larger trials are needed to confirm its effects.

Other names & forms of Phyllanthus (Chanca Piedra) supplement : phyllanthus niruri, chanca piedra, stonebreaker, phyllanthus extract

Benefits

Phyllanthus (Chanca Piedra) contains lignans and flavonoids that support kidney and liver function by promoting bile flow and reducing stone formation through diuretic effects.

  • Helps support Liver Support by encouraging detoxification and protecting hepatocytes from oxidative damage.
  • May aid in preventing kidney stones, supporting general Detoxification & Cleansing and urinary comfort.
  • Provides mild diuretic effects that may contribute to Bladder Health and fluid balance.

Dosage

Dosage recommendations for Phyllanthus (Chanca Piedra) supplement should be followed according to personal health goals:

  • Kidney stone support: 400–1000 mg/day of Phyllanthus extract (standardized to lignans or phyllanthin).
  • Traditional tea: 1–2 grams/day of dried herb steeped for 10–15 minutes.
  • Capsule form: 500 mg taken once or twice daily with water.
  • Recommendation: Use with hydration for best effect; monitor kidney function during extended use.
Phyllanthus (Chanca Piedra) dosage should be tailored by a healthcare professional to your condition.

Side Effects

Phyllanthus (Chanca Piedra) is known for kidney and liver support, but some users experience mild side effects as their system adapts. Watch for:

  • Mild gastrointestinal upset—nausea, stomach cramps, or diarrhea—especially on an empty stomach
  • Occasional headache or dizziness in sensitive individuals
  • Possible mild hypotension—lightheadedness or faintness—due to its diuretic properties
  • Rare allergic reactions—rash or itching—in those sensitive to Phyllanthaceae family plants
  • Temporary increased urination frequency as the body flushes toxins

Interactions

Possible interactions include:

  • Antidiabetic medications: Phyllanthus may enhance glucose-lowering effects of insulin or Cinnamon, increasing risk of hypoglycemia—monitor blood sugar.
  • Hepatotoxic drugs: Phyllanthus’s hepatoprotective compounds can alter liver enzyme activity, potentially affecting acetaminophen or statins—check LFTs.
  • Anticoagulant and antiplatelet agents: Mild antiplatelet action may add to warfarin or Garlic, raising bleeding risk.
  • Diuretics: Its diuretic effect could potentiate furosemide or supplements like Dandelion Root, altering fluid balance—monitor electrolytes.

Precautions

Before adding Phyllanthus to your routine, confirm you’re not in any of these cautionary groups. If you are, consult your healthcare provider:

  • Individuals with low blood pressure: May exacerbate hypotension; monitor levels closely
  • People on diuretic or antihypertensive medications: Potential additive effect; adjust dosage under medical supervision
  • Pregnant or breastfeeding women: Limited safety data; best to avoid high-dose supplements
  • Those with gallstones or bile duct obstructions: May exacerbate symptoms; avoid or use under professional guidance
  • Patients scheduled for surgery: Discontinue at least two weeks prior—possible interactions with anesthesia and fluid balance

Studies

These studies provide scientific insights into Phyllanthus (Chanca Piedra) benefits:

A 2013 double-blind RCT in 88 patients with urolithiasis found 600 mg/day Phyllanthus niruri extract for 12 weeks reduced stone recurrence by 13% versus 29% with placebo (P = 0.04) and decreased stone size (P = 0.03).

A 2014 pilot study showed 500 mg/day for 8 weeks lowered urinary oxalate excretion by 18% in hyperoxaluric subjects, but no placebo group was included.

A small RCT in 30 healthy volunteers reported no effect of Phyllanthus extract on liver enzymes (ALT/AST) over 4 weeks versus placebo (ns).

No trials have assessed Phyllanthus for antiviral efficacy in chronic hepatitis B or other viral infections.

This article was originally published on Stackbb.com, your trusted source for science-based supplement guides.

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Important Disclaimer: The information provided on this page about Phyllanthus (Chanca Piedra) supplement is for informational purposes only and has not been reviewed or validated by a medical professional. It is not intended to substitute professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your doctor or qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any supplement or part of your healthcare regimen. Individual needs and responses to supplements may vary, and what works for one person may not be appropriate for another.