Benefits of Phyllanthus amarus for Health
A Surprising Discovery in the Garden
Recently, while checking one of our aloe vera pots, I noticed that Phyllanthus amarus, commonly known as stone breaker, was growing in it. This discovery made me reflect on the previous series we had titled “Nigeria’s Medicinal Plants in 2021,” which did not include this particular plant. Seeing it growing naturally in our garden felt like nature itself choosing a topic for us to explore.
I also recall a conversation with a woman named Mrs. Obiforomuo Amarachi, who is known as "Village Wife" on Facebook. She shared her experience about using miracle leaf to help soften cassava during fermentation when it couldn’t be peeled and soaked immediately after harvest. However, she emphasized that the cassava should not be left in the sun after harvesting.
Botanical Overview of Phyllanthus amarus
Phyllanthus amarus belongs to the Euphorbiaceae family, commonly referred to as the Spurge Family. It is often regarded as a weed but has significant medicinal value across various cultures. In Yoruba, it is known as "eyin olobe." The plant is well-researched and has shown diverse pharmacological activities, making it a potential candidate for new therapeutic developments.
Phytochemical studies have identified numerous compounds in P. amarus, including lignans, flavonoids, hydrolysable tannins (ellagitannins), polyphenols, triterpenes, sterols, and alkaloids. Specific isolates include phyllanthin, hypophyllanthin, and phyltetralin, among others. These compounds contribute to the plant's wide range of medicinal properties.
Pharmacological Activities and Medicinal Uses
Extracts and compounds from P. amarus exhibit a broad spectrum of pharmacological activities, such as antiviral, antibacterial, antiplasmodial, anti-inflammatory, antimalarial, antimicrobial, anticancer, antidiabetic, hypolipidaemic, antioxidant, hepatoprotective, nephroprotective, and diuretic effects.
The plant is effective against various bacteria, including Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Salmonella typhi, and Candida albicans. Its traditional use in Ayurvedic medicine highlights its role in treating stomach issues, genitourinary problems, liver, kidney, and spleen conditions.
Ethnobotanical Uses and Traditional Applications
Phyllanthus amarus is widely used as a medicinal plant and is considered a good tonic and diuretic. Aqueous extracts show potent anticarcinogenic activity, while fresh and methanol extracts exhibit strong antioxidant properties. Drying the plant material reduces its antioxidant capacity, but boiling water extracts maintain higher potency due to better solubility and compound breakdown.
Methanolic extracts of the leaves, roots, and fruits show significant antibacterial activity against both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria. Chloroform fractions of the aerial parts inhibit fungi like Microsporum gypseum and yeast like Candida albicans.
Traditional uses include decoctions for coughs, infusions for dysentery, and treatments for hemorrhoids, rashes, and wounds. The sap is used for costal pains, otitis, and maturating furuncles. The ripe fruit and seeds are considered vermifugal.
Scientific Studies and Potential Benefits
Several studies support the medicinal benefits of P. amarus. One study found that it inhibits HIV replication both in vitro and ex vivo. Another study highlighted its phytochemical composition, suggesting therapeutic value. Research on its antimicrobial effects against drug-resistant E. coli and Salmonella typhi further supports its traditional applications.
Preparations and Consumption
Like other herbal teas, P. amarus can be prepared by steeping fresh or dried herb in hot water through infusion or decoction. It is often consumed unsweetened.
Caution and Considerations
Despite its benefits, long-term or high-dose use of P. amarus may have adverse effects on the kidneys, despite its traditional use in managing kidney and gallstones. This highlights the importance of using herbs responsibly and with caution.
Herbs, while beneficial, should not be abused. Always consult with a healthcare professional before using any herbal remedy, especially for prolonged periods or in high doses.
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