Buzz
This herbal plant thrives abundantly in tropical regions. Scientifically known as Phyllanthus urinaria, it also goes by various names such as sawtooth herb, dog delivery plant, heavenly matchstick plant, or bitterleaf.
With a sturdy stem, reaching approximately 30cm in height, its oval-shaped leaves grow in an alternate pattern, light green on the underside and dark green on the upper surface. The white flowers cluster closely beneath the leaves, and the spherical fruits, resembling small balls, lie just beneath the foliage. The entire plant can be harvested for its valuable use as a traditional herbal remedy.
Bitterleaf, a herbal remedy commonly found in tropical regions (Source: Internet)- Discover the astonishing healing properties of dandelion
- Herbal medicine: Benefits and precautions of ginseng
- Unveiling 7 herbal wonders for optimal health
8 Health Benefits of Bitterleaf
Bitterleaf possesses a sweet and bitter taste with a cooling nature. Below are 8 specific benefits of this herbal remedy that readers should be aware of.
Aid Digestion, Heal Stomach Disorders
This plant has the ability to reduce stomach ulceration through the mechanism of acid secretion reduction. It also stimulates bowel movements and appetite, supporting effective digestion.
The miraculous Diệp Hạ Châu possesses the ability to alleviate gastric ulcers and support digestion (Source: Internet)Treatment for kidney and gallstones
Research from Santa Catarina University of Pharmacy affirms that alkaloids – amines derived from nature found in Diệp Hạ Châu help prevent spasms in smooth and skeletal muscles. Additionally, this plant is also known as the stone-shattering tree, a recognition of its effectiveness in treating kidney and gallstones.
Diệp Hạ Châu (stone-shattering tree) aids in the treatment of kidney and gallstones (Source: Internet)Enhancing the immune system
A 1992 study by Japanese scientists revealed that this plant has the ability to inhibit the development of HIV-1. In 1996, Bristol Myers Squibb Pharmaceutical Research Institute also identified an active compound in this plant, named 'Nuruside,' which enhances the immune system.
Numerous studies indicate that this plant aids in boosting the immune system (Source: Internet)Effective anti-inflammatory properties
Both studies on mice and hamsters in 2013 and 2017 found that extracts from Diệp Hạ Châu have anti-inflammatory effects. The anti-inflammatory compounds in this plant are noted to be as effective as the pain reliever ibuprofen.
-
Five-color flower: Meaning, characteristics, cultivation, and notable effects
- White chrysanthemum – Revealing many special features of this flower species
- What is the function of the blue pea flower? Benefits from this herbal remedy
Extracts from Diệp Hạ Châu exhibit effective anti-inflammatory properties (Source: Internet)Protecting the liver and antioxidation
Numerous studies have proven the hepatoprotective and antioxidative effects of the stone-breaker plant. Extracts from this herbal remedy can shield the liver from the toxicity of the pain reliever acetaminophen. Moreover, through the synthesis of glutathione and antioxidation properties of Phyllanthin – a compound found in this plant, the liver is fortified against oxidative stress and protected from the effects of aflatoxin B1. It can be said that the extract from this plant can be compared to standard antioxidants like vitamin C.
The stonebreaker plant is effective in protecting the liver and antioxidation (Source: Internet)Support for diabetes treatment
According to a 2010 study from the University of Nigeria, stone-breaker plant aids in supporting diabetes treatment. Extracts from the upper part of this herbal remedy help reduce blood sugar levels and prevent sudden spikes in blood glucose.
Another study in 2012 also demonstrated that ethanol extract from the leaves has a potent anti-diabetic effect. This is why the stonebreaker plant is recognized as a valuable remedy for treating diabetes in traditional medicine.
Extracts from the upper part of the stonebreaker plant help reduce blood sugar levels (Source: Internet)- Monk fruit – A precious medicinal herb you should know
- What is the bael fruit? Bael fruit's effects on health
- The role of the soursop tree in treating liver diseases
Preventing cancer
Polyphenols in the stonebreaker plant act as a defense against the infiltration of cancer cells. Simultaneously, these compounds help prevent the metastasis of certain cancers, slowing down the growth of cancer cells.
Polyphenols within this plant have anticancer properties (Source: Internet)Effective pain relief
Kenneth Jones and researchers from Brazil discovered potent pain-relieving effects in some Phyllanthus species, including the stonebreaker plant. The compounds ethyl ester, gallic acid, and steroid mix (stigmasterol and beta-sitosterol) in this plant provide pain relief four times stronger than indomethacin and three times stronger than morphine.
The plant provides intense pain relief, four times more effective than indomethacin (Source: Internet)How to use the stonebreaker remedy
Stonebreaker, in combination with other herbs, aids in treating various illnesses. To obtain an effective stonebreaker remedy, it's essential to consult a doctor for a prescription. Here are some common prescriptions incorporating stonebreaker that you can consider:
- Treating hepatitis B: Stonebreaker 30g, Chinese sage 12g, astragalus 12g, licorice root 12g, skullcap 8g, infused in hot water, drink 1 dose per day.
- Treating jaundice, hepatitis: Stonebreaker 40g, taraxacum 12g, dandelion 20g, decoct and drink the water.
- Treating cirrhosis of the liver: Stonebreaker (phyllanthus) 100g, dry-roast, infuse in water three times, add 150g of sugar, drink multiple times a day, treatment duration 30 – 40 days.
- Treating painful swellings: Crush a handful of stonebreaker with a pinch of salt, add water, squeeze and drink the water, apply the residue to the painful area.
- Treating tongue protrusion in children: Crush fresh stonebreaker, extract the juice, and apply (Vietnamese Materia Medica).
- Treating malaria, poisoning, and intestinal worms: 20g of dried stonebreaker, 20g of dried licorice root, decoct and drink daily.
Usage guidelines (Source: Internet)How often should stonebreaker be taken in a day?
- Every day, you can consume 8g–40g of stonebreaker in the form of fresh or dried plants, infused in water.
- For external use, crush fresh stonebreaker and apply it to wounds, insect bites (dosage is not limited).
- Depending on individual health conditions, consult with a specialized doctor to ensure the safety and effectiveness when using medicine from this plant.
- Black cohosh: Unexpected benefits from this precious herb
- What is the role of guava leaves? Revealing 5 amazing benefits of guava leaves for health
You can consume 8g–40g in the form of fresh or dried plants every day (Source: Internet)Side effects of excessive stonebreaker consumption
This herbal plant is known for its detoxifying, liver-cleansing, blood-circulating, diuretic, acne-treating, and diarrhea-relieving properties. However, it also carries potential side effects such as discomfort in the stomach, and in some cases, diarrhea. Overconsumption may lead to liver fibrosis. Therefore, careful consideration is advised to avoid compromising health and interfering with the use of other medications.
Stonebreaker may cause stomach discomfort and diarrhea for some individuals (Source: Internet)Stonebreaker (Phyllanthus) is a wonderful herbal remedy for health. However, this herb plays a supportive role in treating the mentioned illnesses. Readers should consult a doctor before using this plant for optimal effectiveness. Also, don't forget to visit Mytour Blog for additional informative content.
Frequently Asked Questions
Consuming this plant excessively may cause liver discomfort leading to fibrosis. Additionally, this herbal remedy is not recommended for individuals with bloating, indigestion, loose stools, or a fear of the cold...
