Chanca Piedra - Beyond Breaking Stones
Plants and mushrooms become herbal medicines as humans (and some animals!) discover that they can help support biosystems or relieve detrimental issues. These flora and fungi are loaded with a higher level of bioactive compounds than "ordinary" plants. With this in mind, it's not hard to believe that they can help in many situations, not just one type.
Chanca piedra (Phyllanthus niruri) is a great example of this power. It is considered THE HERB for treating painful kidney stones, and so it ends up stuck only in that role. How unfortunate, because it can do much more! Read on for details.
Proven Medicinal Properties
Liver protection Laboratory and animal studies suggest Chanca Piedra's antioxidant compounds may protect the liver from damaging toxins such as oxalates, alcohol, and the fatty liver issues.
Antiviral action Viral infections (notably hepatitis B, SARS, and Covid) show inhibition of their replication by blocking the virus's DNA Polymerases.
Antimicrobial agent It can be used externally as a wash or consumed to fight bacterial infections. Chanca Piedra extracts inhibit Helicobacter pylori, implying potential benefit for ulcers. It is particularly effective as a mouthwash against cavity-causing bacteria.
Antifungal power Soaks and washes of hot water infusions of Phyllanthus niruri can be used to fight fungal/yeast infections.
Diuretic effects Helps increase urine flow to flush out bladder and kidney infections (which it also helps fight).
Anti-inflammatory & pain relief Its activity comparable to ibuprofen for reducing pain and swelling
Blood sugar control Chanca Piedra may reduce fasting blood glucose via inhibitory activity against α-amylase and α-glucosidase, showing hypoglycemic potential.
Uric acid reduction It suppressed uric acid production by inhibiting hepatic XOD activity, and decreased plasma uric acid levels in hyperuricemic mice by approximately 40%.
Medicine Man Plant Co.
Many of my formulas grew out of helping myself, but thankfully kidney stones weren't a problem for me. However, they were a huge issue for my business partner, Steven Skiff.
It's been 10 months since Steven passed away unexpectedly, so this discount is in his honor. Use the code SKIFF to save 20% on The Stone Breaker Pill