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Phyllanthus niruri
Biological Name: Phyllanthus niruri, Phyllanthus urinaria, Phyllanthus amarus.
Other Names: Bhuamalaki, Bhuy amalaki, Niruri, bhuiamla, bahupatra
This herb, used in ayurveda, is a perennial herb found in Central and Southern India, to Sri Lanka. It can grow to 12-24 inches in height and blooms with many yellow flowers. All parts of the plant are employed therapeutically. Phyllanthus species are also found in other countries, including China (e.g., Phyllanthus urinaria), the Philippines, Cuba, Nigeria, and Guam.
Phyllanthus primarily contains lignans (e.g., phyllanthine and hypophyllanthine), alkaloids, and bioflavonoids (e.g., quercetin). While it remains unknown as to which of these ingredients has an anti-viral effect, research shows that this herb acts primarily on the liver. This action in the liver confirms its historical use as a remedy for jaundice.
Phyllanthus has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for over 2,000 years and has a wide number of traditional uses. This includes employing the whole plant for jaundice, and diabetes and using it topically as a poultice for skin ulcers, sores, swelling, and itchiness. The young shoots of the plant are administered in the form of an infusion for the treatment of chronic dysentery.
Diabetes, dyspepsia, ulcers, sores, swellings, ophthalmia, and chronic dysentery.