Wildcrafted Chanca Piedra
Also known as: Chanca piedra, Stone breaker, Gale of the wind, Phyllanthus niruri
Overview
Phyllanthus niruri, commonly known as Chanca piedra, is a perennial shrub native to tropical and subtropical regions, particularly South America. It has a history of use in traditional medicine systems, including Ayurvedic, Unani, and Brazilian folk medicine, primarily for treating kidney stones, bladder stones, and gallstones. The plant is characterized by its alkalizing properties and potential to promote bile production, which may aid in digestion and waste elimination. It is available in various forms, including whole plant extracts, teas, and capsules. While traditionally used for various ailments, the scientific evidence supporting its efficacy is limited, with most research consisting of animal or in vitro studies. Human studies are scarce, and the overall quality of available evidence is generally low, necessitating cautious interpretation of its purported benefits. Further research is needed to validate its traditional uses and establish its safety and efficacy.
Benefits
Chanca piedra has demonstrated potential benefits, primarily in reducing kidney stone size and number. A systematic review and meta-analysis indicated significant decreases in mean stone size (SMD -0.39 cm) and number (SMD -0.38) in patients with kidney stones. Some animal studies suggest it may reduce uric acid levels, potentially benefiting gout, and exhibit anti-HBV activity, though human evidence is lacking. Traditional use suggests benefits for liver function and digestive health, but these claims are not well-supported by scientific evidence. The primary benefits are observed in patients with kidney stones, particularly those with smaller stones. The effect sizes are modest, and the clinical significance is uncertain due to the limited number of studies and small sample sizes. One study observed benefits over a 12-week period, but long-term effects are not well-documented.
How it works
Phyllanthus niruri may work by increasing urine pH, making it more alkaline, which could help prevent uric acid and cystine stones. It also has alkalizing properties and may promote bile production, aiding in digestion and waste elimination. The plant interacts with the urinary and digestive systems, potentially affecting stone formation and bile production. While specific molecular targets are not well-defined, it is known to have antioxidant properties and may interact with enzymes involved in bile production and uric acid metabolism. The absorption and bioavailability of Phyllanthus niruri are not well-studied, but it is typically consumed as a whole plant extract or tea.
Side effects
Chanca piedra is generally considered safe, but comprehensive safety data is lacking. Reported side effects include abdominal pain, painful urination, blood in urine, and nausea, as observed in a study involving patients with kidney stones. There is insufficient data to identify uncommon or rare side effects. Information on potential drug interactions is limited, but caution should be exercised when using Phyllanthus niruri with other medications, especially those affecting liver or kidney function. No specific contraindications are well-documented, but it should be used with caution in patients with underlying liver or kidney diseases. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should use Phyllanthus niruri with caution due to the lack of safety data. Due to the limited evidence base, it is crucial to monitor for side effects and interact with other medications cautiously.
Dosage
The minimum effective dose of Chanca piedra is not well-established, but it is typically used in doses ranging from 400 mg to 2 grams per day. The optimal dosage is unclear, but traditional use often involves consuming the plant as a tea or whole plant extract. There is no established maximum safe dose, but high doses should be used with caution. No specific timing recommendations are available. It is often consumed as a tea, capsule, or whole plant extract. The absorption of Phyllanthus niruri is not well-studied, but it may be enhanced by consumption with water. No specific cofactors are identified. Due to the limited evidence base, it should be used under the guidance of a healthcare provider.
FAQs
How should I use Chanca piedra?
Chanca piedra should be used under the guidance of a healthcare provider due to the limited evidence base. Monitor for side effects and interact with other medications cautiously.
Is Chanca piedra safe?
While generally considered safe, the long-term safety and potential interactions with other medications are not well-documented. Use with caution and consult a healthcare professional.
When should I take Chanca piedra?
There is no specific timing recommended, but it is often taken with meals or as a tea. Follow the guidance of your healthcare provider for optimal timing.
What results can I expect from taking Chanca piedra?
Modest reductions in kidney stone size and number may be expected, but individual results can vary. It is not a proven cure for gallstones or other conditions.
Can Chanca Piedra cure gallstones?
Chanca piedra is not a proven cure for gallstones or other conditions despite traditional use claims. Consult with a healthcare provider for evidence-based treatments.
Research Sources
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32333735/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis of two studies involving kidney stone patients found that Phyllanthus niruri treatment resulted in significant decreases in mean stone size and number. The study highlights the potential of P. niruri in managing kidney stones, but acknowledges the limited number of studies and small sample sizes as limitations.
- https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/chanca-piedra-gallstones – This article from Medical News Today discusses the traditional use of Chanca Piedra for gallstones and other conditions. It highlights the limited scientific evidence supporting these uses and emphasizes the need for further research to validate its efficacy and safety.
- https://www.urologytimes.com/view/most-supplements-stones-not-backed-science – This article from Urology Times reviews the scientific evidence for various supplements used to treat kidney stones, including Phyllanthus niruri. It concludes that many supplements, including P. niruri, lack strong scientific backing and emphasizes the importance of evidence-based treatments.
- https://www.sunfood.com/tea-chanca-piedra-3-5oz/ – This is a product page for Chanca Piedra tea. It describes the traditional uses of the herb and provides information on how to prepare and consume it, but does not offer scientific evidence of its efficacy.
- https://www.health.com/chanca-piedra-8639715 – This article from Health.com provides an overview of Chanca Piedra, including its traditional uses and potential health benefits. It notes the limited scientific evidence supporting these claims and advises consulting with a healthcare professional before using the supplement.