Health Guide

Phyllanthus fraternus

Phyllanthus fraternus, often called 'Stone Breaker' or 'Chanca Piedra,' is a tropical herb traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine. While it isn't a vitamin or mineral found in your salad, it is a potent plant extract used to support kidney and liver health. It gets its 'Stone Breaker' nickname from its historical use in helping the body pass kidney stones and preventing their formation. This guide focuses on how this herbal supplement works, where it comes from, and how to use it safely.

Evidence BasedDietary Supplement

VERIFIED SOURCE

Bio-Activity Analysis

Impact on Kidney Stone Prevention

SCIENTIFIC DATA VISUALIZATION

Y-Axis

Stone Formation Inhibition (%)

Usage Type →

Health Benefits & Sources

Why You Need It

Kidney Stone Prevention: May help reduce the formation of calcium oxalate stones.
Liver Support: Traditionally used to protect the liver from toxins and support general function.
Antioxidant Power: Contains compounds that fight oxidative stress in the body.

Deep Dive

The magic of Phyllanthus fraternus lies in its active compounds, called lignans and alkaloids. For kidney health, these compounds appear to relax the ureter (the tube connecting kidney to bladder) and reduce the aggregation of crystals, making it easier for small stones to pass. Regarding the liver, studies suggest it helps stabilize liver enzymes, which is a marker of reduced inflammation and damage. It acts as a natural shield for your body's filtration systems.

Natural Food Sources

Unlike Vitamin C or Magnesium, Phyllanthus fraternus is not a food you eat for dinner. It is a specific medicinal herb. The best way to consume it is through concentrated herbal products.

Food/Herb	Amount	% DV
Phyllanthus fraternus Extract	500mg	N/A
Phyllanthus niruri (Closely related)	500mg	N/A

Supplementation

Best Form: Capsules or Tea (dried whole plant). Typical Dosage: 500mg to 1500mg of extract daily, divided into two doses. Who Should Take It: Individuals prone to kidney stones or those looking for liver detox support (after consulting a doctor). Timing: Take with a full glass of water, preferably with meals to aid absorption.

Top Food Sources

Phyllanthus Fraternus (Capsules)

Standardized extract (500mg)

Phyllanthus Fraternus (Tea)

Dried herb infusion

Chanca Piedra Tincture

Liquid extract

Punarnava

Ayurvedic blend often containing Phyllanthus

Kidney Support Teas

Blends often include this herb

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes! Traditionally, the dried stems and leaves are boiled in water to make a tea. However, the taste is quite bitter.

For kidney stone support, consistent use for 4 to 8 weeks is usually recommended to see effects.

It is most effective on small stones (under 5mm) to help them pass. It does not 'shatter' large stones.

There is limited research on children. Consult a pediatrician before giving this supplement to a child.

Safety & Side Effects

While generally safe, caution is advised. Do not use if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, as it may stimulate uterine contractions. People with bleeding disorders should avoid it, as it can slow blood clotting. If you are on medication for diabetes or high blood pressure, consult your doctor, as it may lower these levels further and interact with drugs.

Scientific References

[1]Liu, Y., et al. (2014). 'Phyllanthus fraternus' in the management of urinary calculi.
[2]Bagchi, A. (2012). 'Phyllanthus niruri' (stone breaker) in urinary tract diseases.
[3]Naik, A. D. (2010). Antioxidant activity of Phyllanthus fraternus.