Phyllanthus - Medical Interest

Medical Interest

The herb Phyllanthus emblica has gained interest as a potential treatment for human bone disorders as well as diabetes patients.

Gaining attention for its potential effects against hepatitis B, research on Phyllanthus niruri has revealed possible antiviral activity also against human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).

Phyllanthus plants have been used in folk medicine used to treat a wide number of diseases. In Indian Ayurvedic medicine, various herbaceous Phyllanthus species are known as bhuiamla, a name previously assigned to P. niruri only. Bhuiamla is prescribed for jaundice, gonorrhea and diabetes (internal use) as well as poultices, skin ulcer and other skin problems (external use). Infusions are made from young shoots as a treatment of chronic dysentery. Not many of these supposed benefits, however, is established with modern scientific research.

The bark of Phyllanthus muellerianus, commonly called "mbolongo" in Cameroon, is used by pygmies as a remedy for tetanus and wound infections.

Phyllanthus muellerianus extracts are antimicrobial. Phyllanthus niruri may possibly help prevent stone formation/urolithiasis. Phyllanthus amarus root and leaf extract showed significant hepatitis C antiviral activity. Phyllanthus species for patients with chronic hepatitis B virus infection have been assessed in clinical trials, but no consensus regarding their usefulness exists. Phyllanthus acidus (leaf) showed antiplasmodial activity against Plasmodium falciparum. Phyllanthus reticulatus leaves showed potential RNase H inhibition and protection against the viral cytopathic effects of HIV-1.

Leaves, roots, stem, bark and berries of this genus contain lignans (e.g. phyllanthin and hypophyllanthin) and a variety of other phytochemicals.