STONE BREAKER Complex
Also known as: Phyllanthus niruri, Stone breaker, Chanca Piedra
Overview
Phyllanthus niruri, commonly known as Stone breaker or Chanca Piedra, is a tropical plant traditionally used in complementary and alternative medicine, particularly for urological conditions. It is primarily recognized for its potential to reduce the size and number of kidney stones. The plant contains various bioactive compounds that are believed to contribute to its therapeutic effects. While it's available in various forms, such as capsules and teas, the scientific evidence supporting its efficacy remains limited, with most studies being small-scale. Further robust clinical trials are needed to confirm its benefits and safety. It is native to tropical regions and has been used in traditional medicine for centuries.
Benefits
Phyllanthus niruri may offer benefits in reducing the size and number of kidney stones, although the evidence is limited. A meta-analysis indicated a modest reduction in both stone size and number with Phyllanthus niruri treatment. The standardized mean difference (SMD) was -0.39 cm for stone size and -0.38 for stone number. These benefits are primarily observed in individuals with kidney stones. However, the time course of these benefits is not well-documented, and more research is needed to fully understand the extent and duration of its effects. The quality of evidence is considered moderate due to the limited number of studies and small sample sizes.
How it works
The exact mechanism of action of Phyllanthus niruri is not fully understood. It is believed to exert its effects through diuretic and anti-inflammatory pathways. The plant may interact with the urinary system by promoting diuresis, which could potentially affect stone formation. While specific molecular targets are not well-defined in the literature, it is thought that the bioactive compounds in Phyllanthus niruri may play a role in these processes. Further research is needed to elucidate the precise mechanisms and interactions within the body.
Side effects
Phyllanthus niruri is generally considered safe when used appropriately, but comprehensive safety data are lacking. Common side effects are not well-documented due to the limited number of clinical trials. Potential, though uncommon, side effects include gastrointestinal disturbances. Rare side effects are not well-documented. There is a potential for interactions with diuretics or other medications affecting the urinary system, although these interactions have not been extensively studied. It is contraindicated in pregnancy and breastfeeding due to a lack of safety data. Caution is advised in individuals with kidney disease or those taking medications that affect kidney function. It is crucial to consult with a healthcare provider before use, especially if you have underlying health conditions.
Dosage
Specific dosing recommendations for Phyllanthus niruri are not standardized. It is often consumed as capsules or teas, with dosage ranges typically found in herbal supplements. However, the minimum effective dose and maximum safe dose are not well-defined. There are no specific timing considerations for its use. Absorption factors have not been well-studied, and no required cofactors have been identified. Due to the lack of comprehensive data, it is important to adhere to the recommendations provided by a healthcare professional or the product label, and to exercise caution when using this supplement.
FAQs
Is Phyllanthus niruri safe to use?
It is generally considered safe, but comprehensive safety data are lacking. Consult a healthcare provider before use, especially if you have underlying health conditions.
How should I take Phyllanthus niruri?
There is no specific guidance on timing or administration. Follow the recommendations provided by a healthcare professional or the product label.
What results can I expect from using Phyllanthus niruri?
It may potentially reduce kidney stone size and number, but results may vary. It is not a substitute for medical treatment; consult a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Can Phyllanthus niruri be taken with other medications?
Potential interactions with diuretics or other medications affecting the urinary system may occur, though not extensively studied. Consult with a healthcare provider before combining it with other drugs.
Who should avoid taking Phyllanthus niruri?
It is contraindicated in pregnancy and breastfeeding due to a lack of safety data. Caution is advised in individuals with kidney disease or those taking medications that affect kidney function.
Research Sources
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32333735/ – This meta-analysis examined the effects of Phyllanthus niruri on kidney stones, including two studies. The key finding was significant decreases in mean stone size and number with P. niruri treatment, suggesting potential benefits. However, the study was limited by the small number of included studies and their sample sizes, resulting in a moderate quality assessment.
- https://www.science.gov/topicpages/a/access+journals+doaj.html – This source provides access to journals and research related to science. It does not provide specific information about Phyllanthus niruri, but it is a general resource for scientific research. It can be used to find additional studies and information about the supplement.
- https://www.science.gov/topicpages/c/complementary+treatment+modality.html – This source provides information on complementary treatment modalities. It does not provide specific information about Phyllanthus niruri, but it is a general resource for complementary medicine. It can be used to find additional studies and information about the supplement.
- https://ijphrd.com/scripts/IJPHRD_February_2019.pdf – This PDF document from the International Journal of Public Health Research and Development may contain research related to Phyllanthus niruri. The document could provide insights into the public health aspects of using this supplement. Further review of the document is needed to extract specific findings and assess its relevance.
- https://www.ijirset.com/upload/2024/AI-2024/AI%20Conclave_2024_New.pdf – This PDF document from the International Journal of Innovative Research in Science, Engineering and Technology appears to be related to an AI conclave. It is unlikely to contain specific research on Phyllanthus niruri. Therefore, it is not a relevant source for information about the supplement's effects or safety.
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