HERBAL
MEDICINAL
PHYLLANTHUS
(Phyllanthus niruri L.) +
MENIRAN
HIJAU
by
RETTODWIKART THENU, S.Pd
PHYLLANTHUS
(Phyllanthus
niruri L.) + Euphorbiaceae
COMMON
NAMES
Bhoomi
amalaki India
Bhui amla Bangladesh
Bhui-amla India
Bhuianvalah India
Bhuimy-amli East Indies
Bhuin-amla Pakistan
Bhumyamalaki India
Cane peas senna West
Indies
Carry-me seed Fiji
Carry-me seed West Indies
Chamber bitters West Indies
Chancapiedra Peru
Chickweed West Indies
Creole senna Virgin Islands
Daun marisan East Indies
Derriere-dos Haiti
Deye do Haiti
Elrageig Sudan
En bas West Indies
Eruption plant Papua-New Guinea
Gale-o-wind Bimini
Gale wind grass Fiji
Gale-wind grass
West Indies
Graine en bas
fievre French Guiana
Hurricane weed West Indies
Jar amla Fiji
Jar-amla India
Kizha nelli India
Mapatan Papua-New Guinea
Mimosa West
Indies
Niruri Pakistan
Para-parai mi Paraguay
Pei Admiralty
Islands
Phyllanto Brazil
Pombinha East Indies
Querba pedra Brazil
Quinine weed West Indies
Sampa-sampalukan
Philippines
Sasi Papua-NewGuinea
Se Papua-New
Guinea
Shka-nin-du Mexico
Viernes santo Puerto Rico
Ya-tai-bai Thailand
Verba de san
pablo Philippines
Common
Names (Duke, J. A et al., 2009)
Adhyana (Sanskrit [1 of ~36]; KAB); Arranca Pedras (Por.;
AVP; RAI); Arrebenta Pedras (Brazil; Por.; AVP; MPB); Azulejo (Cuba; AVP);
Bahupatri (Sanskrit; ADP); Barbascao (Ven.; AVP); Bhonya Anmali (Guj.; ADP);
Bhui Amala (Nepal; NPM); Bhuiamla (Ben.; Urdu; KAP); Bhuiaola (Oriya; KAB);
Bhuiavala (Mar.; KAB); Bhuinanvalah (Dec.; KAB); Bhumiamla (Yunani.; KAP);
Bhumyamalaki (Nepal; Sanskrit; ADP; AH2; KAP); Bhuyi Avla (Hindi; KAP); Carillo
(Nic.; AVP); Cane Peas (Eng.; RAI); Cane Senna (Eng.; RAI); Carry-Me-Seed (Eng.; RAI); Chamber Bitter
(Jam.; JFM); Chanca Piedra (Ecu.; Peru; Sp.; BEJ; LOR; MDD); Chhotaki Dahigola
(Tharu; NPM); Ciurelo (Mex.; AVP); Creole Senna (Eng.; RAI); De Dou (Haiti;
AHL); Derriere Dos (Haiti; AVP); Des Dos (Haiti; AHL); En Bas Feuilles (Guad.;
Mart.; AVP); En Bas Feuilles Blanc (Guad.; Mart.; AVP); Erva Pombinha (Brazil;
Por.; AUS; AVP); Feuilles la Fievre (Haiti; AHL); Filanto Urinario (Sp.; AVP); Filantro
Urinario (Ma.; JFM); Fly Roost (Eng.; NPM); Gabellon (Col.; AVP); Gale of Wind (Fla.;
Usa.; AUS; AVP); Gale-Wind Grass (Eng.; RAI); Garbanzo (Col.; AVP); Graine en
Bas Feuille (Creole; Guy.; GMJ); Graines en Bas (Guad.; Mart.; AVP); Graines
Sur Dos (Haiti; AVP); Guinda (Sal.; AVP); Herbe du Chagrin (Fr.; KAB); Hierba
Pombo (Brazil; MPG); Hurricane Weed (Eng.; RAI); Jangli Amla (Hindi; KAP);
Jaramla (Hindi; KAB); Jobitillo (Pan.; AVP); Kaimadgene (Palikur; GMJ);
Kidachimikanso (Japan; KAP); Kilanelli (Tam.; KAB); Kiranelligida (Kan.; KAB);
Kizharelli (Tam.; KAP); Kizhkkayinelli (Mal.; KAB); Kunaparu (Guiana; AVP);
Lavandero (Ven.; AVP); Lenteja (Arg.; AVP); Lloron (Cuba; AVP); Makantowe (Shipibo/Conibo;
MD2); Mala (Sanskrit; KAB); Malcoc (Arg.; AVP); Malva Pedra (Brazil; MPB);
Mehukaetnipussemnak (Palikur; GMJ); Nelausirika (Tel.; KAB); Niruri (Eng.; Fla.;
Fr.; Ocn.; Sin.; AH2; AUS; KAB; KAP); Panatela (Mex.; AVP); Para Paray Mi
(Par.; AVP); Perico (Dor.; AVP); Perla (Col.; AVP); Peronillo del Pasto (Sp.;
AVP); Petit Tamarin Blanc (Fr.; AVP); Phyllantee Diuretique (St. Bart.; AVP);
Phyllanthus (Eng.; Scn.; AH2; CR2); Piedra con Piedra (Peru; SOU); Pimienta
(Sal.; AVP); Pimientilla (Sal.; AVP); Pittawaku (Sin.; KAB; KAP); Quebra Pedra
(Por.; AVP); Quinilla del Tahuampa (Peru; AVP); Quinine Creole (Fr. Guy.; AVP);
Quinine Pays (Haiti; AVP); Quinine Weed (Eng.; RAI); Quininito (Dor.; AHL);
Quinino Criollo (Dor.; AVP); Quinino del Pobre (Pr.; Sp.; AVP); Quinquina du
Pays (Haiti; AHL); Rockbush (Jam.; AVP); Sacha Foster (Peru; Sp.; LOR; MDD);
Santa Maria (Ma.; JFM); Sarandi Blanco (Uru.; AVP); Seaside Laurel (Jam.; AVP);
Seed on the Leaf (Wi.; JAD); Semilla en las Hojas (Ma.; JFM); Snap Plant (Jam.;
AVP); Sotlugi Kshanate (Piro; RAR); Stonebreaker (Eng.; DAV); Sulfate Pays
(Haiti; AVP); Ta Ma La (Tibet; KAP); Tamalaki (Sanskrit; OFF); Viernes Santo (Col.;
Pr.; AVP); Yaquillo (Pr.; AVP); Yerba de la Nina (Cuba; AUS; AVP); Yerba de
Quinino (Sp.; AVP); Ye Xia Zhu (Pin.; AH2); Yiwayi Sili (Wayapi; GMJ); Yoloba
(Sudan; AVP); Zhen Zhu Cao (Pin.; AH2).
Notes: (Duke, J. A et al., 2009 )
P. amarus, P. debilis, P. fraternus
and P. niruri
are confused in the field and in the
literature and in this account too (true confession). The Fleming et al. (1998)
entries were under “black catnip” as P.
amarus, with the warning “may be confused with Phyllanthus
urinaria, P. niruri, P. debilis, and P.
fraternus
(PH2). Kapoor (1990) and MPI data
were applied to P.
fraternus. Kirtikar and Basu data (as KAB) to P. niruri
L. Gupta (1995) lumped the species amarus, carolinianus, debilis, humilis, and niruri.
Taylor (2005) aggregated activities for P.
amarus, P. niuriri, and P.
sellowianus. Morton treats P.
lathyroides
as synonym of P. niruri (JFM). Blaschek et al. (1998) recognized P. amarus
and P. niruri
among the similar species. McGuffin
et al. (2000) give the name Phyllanthus as the standardized common name for P. fraternus, P. niruri, and P.
urinaria, and maintain P.
amarus
under the scn Phyllanthus amarus
(ocn. = “carry-me-seed”). Manandhar
(2002) subsumes P. niruri
under P. amarus. Austin (2004) chimes in that “The plant of choice in most,
if not all, of the Americas is now P.
niruri.” Yaniv and Bachrach (2005) try to straighten us out. These
several similar species are aggregated hopelessly in the data below. DNA
sequencing has resolved “the long lasting insecurity about the correct
taxonomic assignment of Phyllanthus amarus and P. niruri.”
On the basis of sequence analysis
obtained from two independent markers of P.
amarus, P. niruri, and 8 taxonomically related species, it was possible to
characterize P. amarus
by species-specific mutations … “ P. fraternis
and P. abnormis
… are related most closely to P. amarus… P. niruri
is not genetically linked with P. amarus.” … P.
debilis, P. tenellus
and P. urinaria
are clearly separate species (YAB). I
first learned this Amazonian plant far from the Amazon, in Belize and some of
the West Indian islands where its English name was “seed on the leaf.” There,
matter of fact everywhere I have seen it, it has acquired some very positive
folklore. Famed ethnobotanist R. E. Schultes says in his The Healing
Forest (Schultes and Raffauf, 1990), as do
all our Explorama guides and ACEER workers, that the plant is called “chanca
piedras,” which means “stonebreaker.” The guides here say that it helps gravel
and kidney stones, drunk as a tea, until you feel as if the stones have passed.
Famous explorer Nicole Maxwell had picked that up, long before I got to
Amazonian Peru, just when Peter Jenson and Margarita Smith were launching what
is now the famous Explorama Camp, more than 30 years ago. Nicole noted then
that the “stone-breaker” is quite effective in eliminating kidney stones and
gallstones. Still, I like what naturopathic physician Leslie Taylor (2005)
says: “It is yet another perfect example that Mother Nature is infinitely a
better chemist; the natural herb [whichever species, JAD] continues to work
better than any other man-made chemically altered (and patentable) extracts.”
An Ayurvedically inclined German physician correspondent heard my taxonomic lamentations
and offered the following, returning to Germany from India, “Hello Dr. Duke, back
from India I remember your discussion on Phyllantus niruri and amarus. It became very clear that they are not synonyms. Phyllanthus
amarus has much more bitter substances and
is for that reason more effective in treatment of liver and gall diseases.” And
Swerdlow (2000), on the last page of this National Geographic issue, was kind enough to call me one of the world’s leaders
in the quest for new medicines from old plants. And he was kind enough to mention
that I’m the author of The Green Pharmacy and Herbs
of the Bible: 2000 Years of Plant
Medicine. More important, he described
medicine Nobel Prize winner Baruch Blumberg’s intense work on infectious viral
diseases. Hoping to treat people who had already contracted hepatitis B, he
studied Phyllanthus
amarus, an Asian species used to treat
jaundice, and found chemicals therein which disrupted the development of the
virus. He then concluded with my comment that chicoric acid, a compound in the
weed chicory, shows promise at disrupting the AIDS virus (Swerdlow, 2000).
BOTANICAL
DESCRIPTION (Ross, I. A. 2004)
A herb of the
EUPHORBIACEAE family that grows up to 60 cm. The plant is bitter in taste, the
leaves are small, green, and short-petioled with a thin and glaucous under surface.
The flowers are unisexual, monoecious, minute, greenish and inconspicuous, short-stalked
and borne in pairs in the axils of the leaves. The fruit is a capsule, globose,
slightly depressed at the top with 6 enervations. In the roots, the secondary growth
starts very early and is well pronounced. There is a
distinct cambium. No
starch grains, mineral crystals or latex
vessels
are seen in either the root or stem.
DESCRIPTIONS
(Handayani, V and Nurfadillah. 2014)
Tumbuhan
: Terna semusim, tumbuh tegak, tinggi 38 cm, tidak berbulu, tangkainya berwarna
hijau, tumbuh liar di tempat-tempat yang lembab, di sepanjang jalan dan di
antara rerumputan dalam jumlah yang banyak.
Daun (Folium):
Tunggal, berbentuk jorong (ovalis), ujung (apex) tumpul (obtusus), pangkal
(basis) membulat (rotundatus), susunan tulangnya bertulang menyirip
(penninervis), tepi (margo) rata (integer), permukaan daun licin (laevis),
panjang 9 mm dan lebar 4 mm, berwarna hijau muda.
Batang (Caulis):
Basah, berbentuk bulat (teres), permukaan batang licin (laevis), arah tumbuh
batang tegak lurus (erectus), cara percabangan monopodial, berwarna hijau muda,
tinggi 24 cm
Akar (Radix):
Termasuk sistem perakaran tunggang, bercabang, berwarna putih kekuningan.
ORIGIN
AND DISTRIBUTION (Ross, I. A. 2004)
The plant
originated in India, usually occurring as a winter weed throughout the hotter
parts; now widespread throughout the tropics and subtropics in sandy regions
during rainy seasons.
GEOGRAPHICAL
DISTRIBUTION (Paithankar et al., 2011)
It
is a field weed which is found proliferating throughout tropical and
subtropical regions of Asia, America, and China. The genus Phyllanthus (L)
Murr. comprises from 600 to 700 species with minor distinguishing features
among them. Phyllanthus niruri is an annual herb which grows in the wild after
first showers of monsoon in Jharkhand, Bihar, Chhattisgarh, etc. states of
India. However, it has also been reported to grow commonly in coastal areas. In
Indian states it usually grows during second week of June and starts bearing
fruits up to mid July or August. It remains in the wild up to the end of the
rainy season. However, under safe conditions it can grow and survive upto
mid-winter.
P.
amarus, P. debilis, P. fraternus and P. niruri are
confused in the field and in the literature, and in this account too (true
confession). The PH2 entries were under “black catnip” as P. amarus,
with the warning “may be confused with Phyllanthus urinaria, P. niruri, P.
debilis, and P. fraternus” (PH2). MPI data were applied to P.
fraternus, KAB data to P. niruri L. HH3 recognized P. amarus and
P. niruri among the similar species (Duke, J. A et al., 2002 )
TRADITIONAL
MEDICINAL USES (Ross, I. A. 2004)
Admiralty
Islands. Hot
water extract of dried bark and leaves is taken orally for acute venereal
disease. The extract (500 ml) is taken twice daily for up to 6 monthsPN061 .
Argentina. The plant is
used as an emmenagogue by the rural populacePN016.
Bimini. Hot water
extract of the entire plant is taken orally to reduce fevers and as a laxati
vePN052 .
Brazil. Decoction of
dried root is taken orally for jaundice. Decoction of dried seeds is taken
orally for diabetes. Hot water extract of dried fruit is taken orally for
diabetes. Infusion of dried leaves and stems is taken orally to treat kidney
and bladder calculi. Infusion of the dried entire plant administered orally, is
used to dissolve kidney and bladder stones, and for renal diseasesPN08o.
Dominican
Republic. Hot
water extract of leaves is taken orally as a popular fever remedyPN084.
East Africa. Hot water
extract of the aerial parts is taken orally as a diureticPN089.
East Indies. Hot water
extract of the entire plant is taken orally for menstrual troubles/ complaints
and diabetes, as a purgative and tonicPN09O.
Fiji. Decoction of
dried leaves and roots is taken orally for fever and for good health. Dried
entire plant, ground in buttermilk is taken orally for jaundice. Fresh leaf
juice is used externally for cuts and bruises. For eye diseases, the juice is
mixed with castor oil and applied to the eye. Infusion of dried leaves is taken
orally for dysentery and diarrhea. Infusion of the green root is taken orally
to treat heavy menstrual flowPNon.
French Guiana. Hot water
extract of leaves is taken orally as a cholagoguePNo17.
Haiti. Decoction of
dried leaves is taken orally or used in bath for fever, and orally for indigestionPN077
. Hot water extract of dried entire plant is taken orally as a spasmolytic and
for feverPN058.
India. Decoction of the
dried aerial parts is taken orally for diarrheaPN025 and jaundiceN065. Fresh
plant juice is taken orally for genitourinary disordersPN07o. The fruit is used
externally for tubercular ulcers, scabies and ringwormPN03O. Hot water extract
of dried entire plant is taken orally, as a diureticPN021 , for gonorrhea, urogenital
tract infectionsPN042, diabetesPNOlo, jaundicePN094,PN06\ leucorrheaPN045 and
asthma, in Ayurvedic medicinePN068. Hot water extract of dried leaves is taken
orally for diabetes. Hot water extract of fresh shoots is taken orally for
dysentery and jaundicePN042 . Hot water extract of leaves is taken orally as a
stomachicPN03O, for menorrhagiaPN°07 and intermittent feverPNo87. Water extract
of roots is taken orally as a galactagogueNoo6.
Malaysia. Hot water
extract of leaves is taken orally after a miscarriage and as an emmenagogueNOO7.
Mexico. Hot water
extract of dried leaves is an emetic when taken as a strong teaPN091.
Papau-New
Guinea. Fresh
leaf and root juices are taken orally for venereal diseases. Decoction of dried
entire plant is taken orally to treat venereal diseasesPN043. For malaria, the
decoction is taken orally and used to bathe the patient. For tuberculosis, a
single dose of the decoction is taken orallyPN067. Decoction of dried leaf is
taken orally as a treatment for diarrhea. A cupful of the decoction is taken dailyPN027.
Peru. Hot water
extract of dried entire plant is taken orally as a diuretic, for gallstones and
renal calculiPN079.
Philippines. Decoction of
dried entire plant is used as a bath for newborns. It is believed to remove disease-causing
elements from the skin. Orally, the decoction is used for coughs in
infantsPN069. Hot water extract of the entire plant is taken orally as an emmenagogueNOO1,PNOO5.
Puerto Rico. Hot water
extract of leaf and stem is taken orally for feversPNOO4.
Sudan. Hot water
extract of dried leaves is taken orally as an analgesicPN060.
Tanzania. Hot water
extract of fresh entire plant is taken orally for gonorrheaPNOll.
Thailand. Hot water
extract of the entire plant is taken orally as an antipyreticPN093. Hot water
extract of the dried aerial parts is taken orally as a diuretic and
antipyretic, and for malariaPN031. Hot water extract of dried entire plant is
taken orally as an anti-inflammatory agentPN092 .
Virgin Islands. Hot water
extract of the plant is taken orally to increase the appetitePN08l .
West Indies. Hot water
extract of roots, together with hot water extract of Citrus aurantifolia
roots, is taken orally to increase appetite. Hot water extract of the
entire plant is taken orally, for malaria and malarial fever. Water extract of
the leaves and roots is taken orally for diabetes, and as a
diureticPNOl3,PNo88.
WORLDWIDE
TRADITIONAL MEDICINAL USES (Paithankar et al., 2011)
Hot water extract of the entire plant is
administered orally, to reduce fevers, and as a laxative (Halberstein et al.,
1978). Decoction of dried leaves and roots is taken orally for fever, and for
good health. Dried entire plant, grounded in buttermilk is administered orally
for jaundice. Fresh leaf juice is used externally for cuts and bruises. For eye
diseases the juice is mixed with castor oil and applied to the eye. Infusion of
dried leaves is administered orally for dysentery and diarrhea. Infusion of
green root is taken orally to treat heavy menstrual periods (Singh et al.,
1986). Hot water extract of leaves is administered orally as a cholagogue (Duke
et al., 1975). Decoction of dried leaves is taken orally for or used in bath
for fever, and orally for indigestion (Weninger et al., 1986). Hot water
extract of dried entire plant is administered orally as a spasmolytic and is
also against fever (Weninger et al., 1982). Fresh plant juice is taken orally
for genito urinary disorders (Sahu et al., 1984). The fruit is used externally
for tubercular ulcers, scabies and ringworm (Chauhan et al., 1977). Hot water
extract of dried entire plant is administered orally for diabetes (Jain et al
1967). For asthma in ayurvedic medicine (Sircar et al 1984). Fresh leaf juice
or fresh root juice are taken orally for venereal diseases. Decoction of dried
entire plant is administered orally to treat venereal diseases (Holdsworth et
al., 1989). Decoction of dried leaf when taken orally is a treatment for
diarrhea. A cupful of leaf decoction is drunk daily (Holdsworth et al., 1992).
Decoction of dried entire plant is used as a bath for newborns. It is believed
to remove diseasecausing elements from the skin. Orally the decoction is used
for coughs in infants (Velazco et al., 1980). Hot water extract of commercial
sample of the entire plant, is administered orally as an antipyretic
(Mokkhasmit et al., 1971). Hot water extract of dried aerial parts administered
orally is used as a diuretic, as an antipyretic, and for malaria (Kitisin et al
1952). Hot water extract of dried entire plant is administered orally as an anti-inflammatory
agent (Wasuwat et al., 1967). Hot water extract of the plant is taken orally to
increase the appetite (Oakes et al 1958). Hot water extract of roots together
with hot water extract of Citrus aurantifolia roots is taken orally to increase
appetite. Hot water extract of entire plant administered orally, is taken for
malarial fever. The plant is boiled and the tea taken. Water extract of the
leaves and roots is taken orally for diabetes, and as a diuretic (Asprey et
al., 1955).
CHEMICAL
CONSTITUENTS
(ppm
unless otherwise indicated)
H-Epi-catechin:
Rt CultPN020
H-Epi-catechin-3-gallate:
Rt CultPN020
H-Epi-gallocatechin:
Rt CultPN020
H-Epi-gallocatech
i n-3-0-gallate: Rt Cu ItPN020
H-Limonene:
Lf EO 4.S%PN083
H-Nor-serurinine:
PIPN082
(+)-Catechin:
Rt CultPN020
(+)-Gallocatechin:
Rt CultPN020
4-Hydroxy-lintetralin:
Lf 200PN013,PN011
4-Hydroxy-sesamin:
PIPN029
4-Methoxy-nor-securinine:
Aer, Lf, Rt, StPN065
2,3-dimethoxy-iso-lintetralin:
Lf 2PN013
24-lsopropyl
cholesterol: Aer 18PNo33
Ascorbic
acid: Lf 0.41 %PN032
Astragalin:
LfPN031,PN041
Beta
sitosterol: LfPN002
Corilagin:
PI 7PN040
Cymene:
Lf EO 11 %PN083
Demethylenedioxy
niranthin: Lf 2PN013
Dotriacontanoic
acid: Aer 6SPN033
Ellagic
acid: PI 108_972PN038,PN040,PN021
Eriodictyol-7
-O-alpha-L -rhamnoside: RtPN030
Estradiol:
PI 3PN050
Fisetin-41-0-beta-D-glucoside:
PI 400PN063
Gallic
acid: Rt CultPN020, PI 2.7_27PN040,PN038
Geranin:
PI 0.23%PN038
Hinokinin:
PIPN014
Hydroxy
niranthin: Lf 4PNOll
Hypophyllanthin:
PIPN008,
Lf
0.05_0.17%PN087,PN013,PN002, AerPN089
Iso-lintetralin:
PI 3.4PN014
Iso-quercitri
n: LfPN031,PN041
Kaempferol-4-0-alpha-L-rhamnoside:
RtPN030
Linnanthin:
Lf 2PN013
Linoleic
acid: Sd oil 21 %PN057
Linolenic
acid: Sd oil 51.4%PN057
Lintetralin:
Lf 5_1SPN014,PN013, AerPN033
Lupeol
acetate: RtPN009,PN054
Lupeol:
RtPN009,PN054
Niranthin:
Lf 9_430PN013,PN002, AerPN033
Nirphyllin:
Aer 7PN012
Nirtetralin:
PIPN014,PN056, Lf 9_930PN013,PN002
Nirurin:
PI 400PN066
Nirurine:
Aer 39.8PN076
Nirurinetin:
PIPN066
Nor-securinine:
RtPN030
Phyllanthenol:
Aer 20PN015
Phyllanthenone:
Aer 8PN015
Phyllantheol;
Aer 15PN015
Phyllanthin:
Aer 400PN074, Lf 1100-32S0PN081 ,PN087
Phyllanthine:
Rt, Lf, StPN065
Phyllanthus:
PIPN042
Phyllester:
Aer 12PNo33
Phyllnirurin:
Aer 6PN012
Phyllochrysine:
Lf, StPN055
Phylltetri
n: AerPN033
Phyltetralin:
PIPN056, Lf 0.14%PN013
Quercetin:
LfPN031,PN041, PIPN063
Quercitrin:
LfPN031,PN041, PIPN063
Repandusinic
acid A: PIPN021
Repandusinic
acid: PI 0.12%PN019
Ricinoleic
acid: Sd oil 1.2%PN039
Rutin:
PIPN063, LfPN031,PN041
Salicylic
acid methyl ester: Lf EOPN083
Seco-4-hydroxy-lintetralin:
Lf 20PNOll
Trans-phytol:
PIPN049
Triacontan-1-al:
Aer 60PN074
Triancontan-1-ol:
Aer 560PNo74
PHRMACOlOCICAl
ACTIVITIES AND CLINICAL TRIALS (Ross, I. A. 2004)
Aldose reductase
inhibition. Ethanol
(70%) extract of dried entire plant was active, lClo 1.0 mcg/mlPN040.
Analgesic
activity. Methanol
extract of dried callus tissue, administered intraperitoneally to mice at a
concentration of 10.0 mg/kg, was active vs acetic acid-induced writhing and
formalin-induced pedal edema. At 50.0 mg/kg, the extract was inactive vs tail
flick response to radiant heatPN026. Ethanol/water (1: 1) extract of dried
entire plant, administered intragastrically to male mice at a dose of 50 mg/kg,
was active. The extract, administered intraperitoneally to male mice at a dose
of 0.3 mg/kg, was also active. In both cases, antinociceptive effects were
demonstrated using 5 different models of nociceptionPN028.
Angiotensin-converting
enzyme inhibition. Chromatographic
fraction of dried entire plant, at a concentration of 100.0 mcg/ ml, was
activePN038.
Antibacterial
activity. Water
extract of fresh entire plant, at a concentration of 1.0% on agar plate, was
inactive on Neisseria gonorrheaPNOll. Saline extract of leaves, at a concentration
of 10% on agar plate, was active on Pasteurella pestis and Staphylococcus
aureus, and inactive on Escherichia coliPN086. Chloroform extract of
dried leaves, at a concentration of 1.0 gm/ml on agar plate, was inactive on Bacillus
subtilis, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Staphylococcus
aureus. The methanol extract was active on Staphylococcus aureus, and
inactive on Bacillus subtilis, Escherichia coli, and Pseudomonas
aeruginosaPN060 .
Antidiarrheal
activity. Ethanol/water
(1: 1) extract of the dried aerial parts, at a concentration of 300 mg, was
inactive for antidiarrheal activity on both guinea pig and rabbit ileums vs Escherichia
coli-Inte Rotoxin-induced diarrheaPN025.
Antifungal
activity. Petroleum
ether extract of whole plant produced antifungal activity on Helminthosporium
sativa. The leaf extract produced antifungal activity on Alternaria alternata,
and had no activity on Curvalaria lunataPN051.
Antihepatotoxic
activity. Hexane
extract of dried aerial parts, at a concentration of 1.0 mg/ml in cell culture,
was active on rat hepatocytes, results significant at P < 0.01 level vs CCl4-induced
hepatotoxicity. The extract was inactive vs galactosamine-induced toxicityPN074.
Dried entire plant, administered by gastric intubation to sheep at a dose of
1.0 gm/kg, was active. The animals were dosed daily for 10 days after receiving
the hepatotoxic paracetamol. A mixture of Andrographis paniculata,
Phyllanthus niruri, and Solanum nigrum was used. Changes induced by
toxin were ameliorated by treatment. Changes included anemia, leukocytosis with
neutrophilia and lymphopenia, increased coagulation, decreased glucose,
cholesterolemia, hypotriglyceridemia jaundice and elevation of AST and ALTPN024.
Powdered dried entire plant, administered by gastric intubation to rats at a
dose of 200.0 mg/kg, was active on liver homogenate vs ethanol-treated rats dosed
for 45 days. Triglyceride, cholesterol and phospholipid contents in fatty liver
were reduced to normallevelsPNo36. Water extract of dried leaves, administered
by gastric intubation to rats at a concentration of 2.0 ml/kg, was active. The
activity was as effective as pretreatment vs CCl4-induced hepatotoxicityPN075.
Antihypercholesterolemic
activity. Dried
entire plant, in the ration of rats, was active. Fatty liver was induced with
alcohol. The plant material reduced the increased deposition of triglycerides,
cholesterol and phospholipids in the liver, heart and kidney that resulted from
alcohol treatmenrPN078 .
Antihyperglycemic
activity. Water
extract of dried entire plant, administered by gastric intubation to rats, was
active vs alloxan-induced hyperglycemiaPN042.
Antihyperlipemic
activity. Water
extract of dried entire plant, in the ration of rats, was active. Fatty liver
was induced with alcohol. The plant material reduced the increased deposition
of triglycerides, choles terol and phospholipids in the liver, heart, and
kidney that resulted from the alcohol treatmentPN018.
Antimalarial
activity. Ethanol
extract of the entire plant produced more than 60% inhibition of Plasmodium
falciparum growth, in vitro, at a test concentration of 6 microgram/ mIPN096.
The ethanolic, dichloromethane and lyophilized aqueous extracts of the whole
plant were evaluated for its antimalarial activity in vivo, in 4-day,
suppressive assays against Plasmodium berghei ANKA in mice. No toxic
effect of mortality was observed in the mice treated, orally, as a single dose of
500 mg/kg body weight, or as the same dose given twice weekly for 4 weeks. No
significant lesions were observed, by eye or during histopathological
examinations, in the hearts, lungs, spleens, kidneys, livers, large intestines or
brains of any mouse. At a dose of 200 mg/kg, the ethanolic and dichloro-methane
extracts produced significant chemosuppressions of parasitaemia, when
administered orallyPNo91.
Antimutagenic
activity. Water
extract of dried leaves, administered by gastric intubation to mice at a dose
of 10.0 ml/kg, was active vs nickle-induced clastogenicityPNoJ8.
Antipyretic
activity. Ethanol/water
(1: 1) extract of the entire plant, administered by gastric intubation to
rabbits at variable dosage levels, was inactive vs yeast-induced pyrexiaPN09J.
Antispasmodic
activity. Ethanol/water
(1:1) extract of the entire plant was active on guinea pig ileum vs ACh- and
histamineinduced spasmsPNOOJ.
Antitumor
activity. Ethanol/water
(1: 1) extract, administered intraperitoneally to mice, was active on LEUK
(Friend VirusSolid) pNooJ. Ethanol (95%) and water extracts of dried aerial parts,
at doses of 100.0 mg/kg, were inactive on Sarcoma 180(ASC)pNo44.
Anti-urolithiasis
effect. The
aqueous extract of the plant, in vitro, exhibited a potent and effective
non-concentration- dependent inhibitory effect on a model of CaOx crystal
endocytosis by Madin-Darby canine kidney cells. The response was present even
at very high (pathologic) CaOx concentrations and no toxic effect was detectedPN095.
Antiviral
activity. Ethanol
(95%) extract of dried aerial parts was active on hepatitis B virus. Antiviral
activity was measured in serum of patients who were positive for the hepatitis
B virusPNo46. Water extract of the dried entire plant, administered to
woodchucks at a dose of 9.0 mg/animal, was active vs hepatitis in long-term
chronic carriers of woodchuck hepatitis. No effect was seen in either experimental
or control animals. When experimental animals were later switched to intraperitoneal
administration, two of them showed a drop in antigen titer (two others died of
unrelated causes). No control animals showed any effectsPN094. Water extract of
the dried entire plant, administered by gastric intubation to woodchucks, was
active on woodchuck hepatitis virus. Biological activity reported has been patentedPNo35.
Water extract of the dried entire plant, administered intraperitoneally to
woodchucks at a concentration of9.0 mg/ animal, was active vs hepatitis in
recently infected woodchucks. Three out of 4 experimental animals showed
elimination of woodchuck hepatitis surface antigen and woodchuck hepatitis DNA
polymerize after n days. They remained negative for 300 days. Control
animal did not show any change. Water extract of the dried entire plant, administered
intraperitoneally to woodchucks at a concentration of 9.0 mg/ animal, was active
vs hepatitis in long-term chronic carriers of woodchuck hepatitis. Titer of
woodchuck hepatitis surface antigen was lowered relative to untreated controls.
Half of a ml of the extract was given once a weekPN094 . Water extract
of dried entire plant (plants cultivated in USA), tested on hepatitis virus in
cell culture, was inactive vs hepadnavirus DNA polymerase, ICso 381.0 and 410.0
mcg/mIPNOJ8. Ethanol (95%) extract of fresh entire plant, tested on Tobacco
Mosaic virus in cell culture, was equivocal. The viral inhibitory activity was 7%PN022.
Fresh leaf and fresh root extracts, at a concentration of 4.0%, were active on Peanut
Mosaic virus, Tobacco Mosaic virus and Tobacco Ring Spot virusPN073.
Cardiotoxic
activity. Ethanol/water
(1: 1 ) extract of the entire plant, administered intravenously to dogs at
variable concentrations, was inactivePN09J.
Chromosome
aberration inhibition. Water extract of dried fruit and leaf, administered by
gastric intubation to mice at a dose of 685.0 mg/kg, was active vs chromosome damage
induced by lead nitrate and aluminum sulphate in bone marrow chromosomes. Dosing
was for 7 daysPN041.
Chronotropic
effect (positive). Ethanol/
water (1: 1) extract of the entire plant, administered to dogs intravenously at
variable dosages, was inactivePN093 .
Cytotoxic
activity. Ethanol/water
(1: 1) extract of entire plant, in cell culture, was inactive on CA-9KB,
EDso> 20.0 mcg/mlPNoo3.
DNA polymerase
inhibition. Water
extract of dried entire plant, at a concentration of 50.0 mg/ml, was active vs
activity of woodchuck hepatitis virus DNA polymerase; 50.0 mg/ml produced 25%
inhibition. Methanol and water extracts, a variable dosages, were also active.
The biological activity reported in these studies has been patentedPNOJ'.
Hepatitis B
surface antigen inactivation. Water extract of dried entire plant, at
a concentration of 0.2 mg/ml, was active on hepatitis virus vs reaction of woodchuck
hepatitis surface antigen with hepatitis B (Human) antibody. A concentration of
0.63 mg/ ml was active on hepatitis B virus vs reaction of hepatitis B surface
antigen with hepatitis B antibodyfN094. Water and methanol extracts of the
dried entire plant, at vari- able concentrations, were active. The biological activity
reported has been patentedPN015. Water extract of dried leaves, was active.
Hepatitis B surface antigen inactivation was assayed, ICso 650 ng/ml. The methanol
extract was also active, IC,o 1.2 mcg/ml. Water extract of dried leaves was active.
Hepatitis B surface antigen inactivation was assayed, I Cso 3.30 mcg/mlPN023.
Chloroform extracrPNOl9 and water extracrPN034 of dried leaves, stem and dried
roots, at a concentration of 2.0%, were active.
Hypoglycemic
activity. Water
extract ofthe dried entire plant, administered orally to rabbits at a dose of
10.0 mg/kg, was inactive. A drop in blood sugar of 15 mg relative to
inerttreated control indicated positive resultsPNOIO.
Hypotensive
activity. Ethanol/water
(1: 1) extract of the entire plant, administered intravenously to dogs at
variable dosage levels, was inactivePN093.
Molluscicidal
activity. Ethanol
(95%) extract of dried stem, at a concentration of 250.0 ppm, was inactive on Biomphalaria
pfeifferi and Bulinus truncatus. Petroleum ether extract, at a
concentration of 25.0 ppm, was active on Biomphalaria pfeifferi and Bulinus
truncatusPN062.
Nematocidal
activity. Decoction
of bark, at a concentration of 1.0 mg/ml, was active on T oxacara canisPN048.
Reverse transcriptase
inhibition. Water
extract of the dried entire plant was active on HIV -1 virus, IOso 50.0
mcg/mlPN021 .
Spasmolytic
activity. Methanol
extract of dried callus tissue, at a concentration of 320.0 mcg/ml, was
inactive on guinea pig ileum vs ACh-induced contractionsPN026.
Toxicity
assessment (quantitative). Ethanol/ water (1: 1) extract of the entire plant, administered
orally to mice, tolerated a maximum dose of 1.0 gm/kgPNOOJ. Water extract of
the dried entire plant, at a dose of 0.1 meg/animal, was inactive. No weight loss
was found 7 days after treatment with the extractPN094.
PHARMACOLOGICAL AND BIOLOGICAL
ACTIVITY (Paithankar et al., 2011)
Hepatoprotective
Effect Hepatitis
B is one of the major diseases inflicting human population. Conventional
treatment with interferon – alpha is very expensive and has many serious side
effects. Alternative herbal medicine using extracts of Phyllanthus niruri and
Phyllanthus urinaria have been reported to be effective against Hepatitis B and
other viral infections. A study reports quantitative determination of the anti
viral effect of these herbs in well-defined in vitro systems (Meixa et al.,
1995). Phyllanthus niruri has been reported to exhibit marked antihepatitis B
virus surface antigen activity in in-vivo and in-vitro studies. Infectious
hepatitis is due to the inability of the bodies’ immune system to eliminate the
virus from the liver cells: hence the “carrier state”. An infection with the
virus is documented by detectable levels of various viral antigens in the
blood, including HbaAg (the surface antigen of the virus) as well as antibodies
to the core of virus (HBc antibodies). In one study, 37 patients with chronic
viral hepatitis B were treated with a daily dose of 600mg of Phyllanthus niruri
for 30 days. 59% of the patients lost the HBsAg two weeks after the end of the
treatment. Furthermore, none of the cases followed for up to 9 months had any
symptoms of HBsAg. The authors postulated that Phyllanthus niruri might inhibit
proliferation of the virus by inhibiting replication of the genetic material of
the virus (Thyagarajan et al., 1988). Hepatoprotective effect of an ayurvedic
medicine; herbal preparation HPN – 12 (containing Glycirrhiza glabr, Pichorhiza kurroa, Berberis aristata, Piper longum,
Phyllanthus niruri, Solanum dulcamara, Zingiber officinale, Curculigo
orchioides, Elettaria cardamomum,
Tinospora cordifolia, Desmodium trifolium and Sacchrum officinarum) orally
administered to male albino rats at 1ml/100g body weight was found to be
effective against liver damage (Latha et al., 1999). Animals with Carbon
Tetrachloride induced hepatopathy were treated with catliv (contains extracts
of Swertia chirata, Eclipta alba, Fumaria vaillanti, Picorrhiza kurroa,
Andrographis paniculata and Phyllanthus niruri) at 25ml twice daily orally for
six days starting at 48 hours after administration of Carbon tetrachloride. On
basis of result obtained it was concluded that the ingredients in catliv,
effectively helped in regeneration of hepatic cells and is an effective liver
tonic for calves (Pradhan et al., 2001). Research in Japan and India in the
1980's has demonstrated the liver -healing properties of Phyllanthus niruri.
The primary compounds responsible are phyllanthin, hypophyllanthin and
triacontanal. Glycosides found in Phyllanthus niruri demonstrated Aldose reductase
(AR) inhibitory activity in studies conducted by a Japanese research group in
1988 and 1989 (Shimizu et al., 1989).
HIV
Replication Inhibition Aqueous
extract of Phyllanthus niruri is reported to have inhibitory effect on human
immunodeficiency virus. The investigation examines the anti-HIV effects of the
alkaloidal extract of Phyllanthus niruri in human cell lines. The inhibitory
effect on HIV replication was monitored in terms of inhibition of virus induced
cytopathogenecity in MT-4 cells. The alkaloidal extract of Phyllanthus niruri
showed suppressing activity on strains of HIV-1 cells cultured on MT-4 cell
lines. The CC50 for the extract was found to be 279.85µgmL-1 whereas the EC50
was found to be 20.98µgmL-1. Interestingly the Selectivity Index (SI) was found
to be 13.34, which showed a clear selective toxicity of the extract for the
viral cells. The alkaloidal extract of Phyllanthus niruri was thus found to
exhibit sensitive inhibitory response on cytopathic effects induced by both the
strains of human immunodeficiency virus on human MT-4 cells in the tested
concentrations (Naik et al., 2003). Extracts of five medicinal plants:
Aristolochia indica, Cassia occidentalis, Phyllanthus niruri, Withania
somnifera and Tinospora cordifolia were administered to 10 HIV infected
patients for a period of six months to one year. The clinical status of the
patient and their CD4 cell counts were periodically monitored. The results
indicate that in seven of the ten patients, their CD4 count increased and the
patients remained either asymptomatic or their clinical well being improved.
There was no change in the CD4 cell count in one of the patient and the other
two progressed to full blown AIDS (Natarraj et al., 2000).
Lipid Lowering
Activity Lipid
lowering activity of Phyllanthus niruri alcoholic extracts in triton induced
hyperlipidaemia was examined in rats. It was observed that administration of
triton in rat caused increase in serum cholesterol by 3.5 fold, phospholipid 2
fold and triglyceride 1.2 fold. Administration of Phyllanthus niruri at the
dose of 200mg/kg simultaneously with triton lowered the level of total
cholesterol, phospholipid and triglyceride by 27, 25 and 24 percent
respectively. In an experiment with cholesterol fed rats, Phyllanthus niruri at
a dose of 100 mg/kg lowered the elevated level of low-density lipoprotein
lipids in hyperlipidemic and drug fed animals. (Chandra et al., 2000)
Anti-Diabetic
Activity An
alcoholic extract of Phyllanthus niruri was found to reduce significantly the
blood sugar in normal rats and in alloxan diabetes rats. In normal rats,
administration of Phyllanthus niruri 200mg/kg body weight reduced the blood
sugar by 34.5 percent and to 47.4 percent at the concentration of 1000mg/kg by weight
at 1 hour. However at 6th hour, values are almost similar to normal value.
Continuous administration of the drug produced significant reduction in normal
blood sugar in rats, which on 15th day was also found to reduce the blood sugar
in alloxan diabetic rats. In short term experiment, drug was found to reduce
the blood sugar at 4th hour by 6.07 percent at dose level of 200mg/kg by weight
and 18.7 percent at concentration of 1000mg/kg by weight. Continuous
administration of drug produced significant reduction in blood sugar in alloxan
diabetic rats. On 15th day values were almost similar to normal in the group
taking 1000 mg/kg by weight. Plant extract did not produce any toxicity as seen
from liver and kidney function test and in hematological parameters. The
results indicate potential antidiabetic action of Phyllanthus niruri. (Raphael
et al., 2000).
Anti-Malarial
Activity The
ethanolic, dichloromethane and lyophilized aqueous extracts of Cassia
occidentalis root bark, Morinda morindoides leaves and whole plants of
Phyllanthus niruri were evaluated for their antimalarial activity in vivo, in
4-day, suppressive assays against Plasmodium berghei ANKA in mice. No toxic
effect or mortality was observed in mice treated, orally, with any of the
extracts as a single dose, of 500 mg/kg body weight, or as the same dose given
twice weekly for 4 weeks (to give a total dose of 4 g/kg). No significant
lesions were observed, by eye or during histopathological examinations, in the
hearts, lungs, spleens, kidneys, livers, large intestines or brains of any mouse.
At doses of 200 mg/kg, all the ethanolic and dichloromethane extracts produced
significant chemosuppressions of parasitaemia (of > 60% for C. occidentalis
root bark and Phyllanthus niruri whole plant, and of 30% for M. morindoides
leaves) when administered orally. The most active ethanolic extract, that of
Phyllanthus niruri, reduced parasitaemia by 73%. The dichloromethane extracts
of M. morindoides and Phyllanthus niruri produced similar reductions (74% and
72% chemosuppression, respectively), whereas that of C. occidentalis was
slightly less active (60% chemosuppression). Each lyophilized aqueous extract
was less active than the corresponding ethanolic extract (Neraliya et al.,
2004).
Activity
against Filarial Mosquito (Culex quinquefasciatus)
Eighteen plants were evaluated for juvenile hormone analogue activity against
Culex quinquefasciatus. Of these acetone extracts of 8 plants namely Commelina
benghalensis, Ageratum conyzoides, Achyranthus aspera, Sida acuta, Euphorbia
pulcherrina, Rivinia humilis, Ruellia tuberosa and Phyllanthus niruri possessed
significant juvenile hormone activity. The LC50 values of 5 most active plants
namely Phyllanthus niruri, Amaranthus spinosus, Antegonon leptopus, Corchorus
aestuans, Corchorus benghalensis were determined to be 13, 16, 17, 17, 14ppm
respectively (Calixto et al., 1984).
Anti-spasmodic
activity Research done in Brazil at the Federal
University of Santa Catarina in 1984 on Phyllanthus niruri revealed an alkaloid
(phyllanthoside) in the leaves and stem with strong antispasmodic activity. It
served as a relaxing agent for smooth muscles and they concluded that its
spasmolytic action probably accounted for the efficacy of Phyllanthus niruri in
expelling stones (Grewal, 1984).
Analgesic
activity Methanol extract of dried callus tissue
at a concentration of 10mg/kg, administered intraperitonially to mice was
active vs. acetic acid induced writhin and vs. formalin – induced pedal edema.
The extract, at 50mg/kg was inactive vs tail flick response to radiant heat.
Ethanol/ water (1:1) extract of dried entire plant at a dose of 50mg/kg,
administered intragastric to male mice was active. The extract also
administered intraperitonially to male mice at a dose of 0.3mg/kg was active.
In both cases antinociceptive effects were demonstrated using 5 different
models of nociception (Santos et al., 1994).
Chromosome
Aberration Inhibition
Water extract of dried fruit and leaves, at a dose of 685.0 mg/kg, administered
to mice by gastric incubation was active vs. chromosome damage induced by lead
nitrate and aluminium sulphate in bone marrow chromosomes. Dosing was for 7
days (Holdsworth et al., 1982).
PHARMACOLOGICAL ACTIVITIES OF
PHYLLANTHUS AMARUS
(Danladi S, Idris MA, and Umar II. 2018)
Antidiabetic
activity Ethanolic
extract of Phyllanthus niruri was found to have significant antidiabetic
activity in insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus rat, but showed no effect on
non–insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus rat [18] . Additionally, the ethanol
extract was found to lower lipid profiles (decrease in plasma cholesterol,
triglycerides, Low density lipoprotein cholesterol, very low density
lipoprotein cholesterol and atherogenic index, while there is increase in
high-density lipoprotein cholesterol) in both insulin-dependent diabetes
mellitus and non– insulindependent diabetes mellitus animals [18] .
Concordantly, a one week study carried out on non-insulin dependent diabetic
patients using aqueous extract of aerial parts of Phyllanthus amarus showed
that, it is not effective in lowering both fasting blood glucose and
postprandial blood glucose level in untreated non-insulin dependent diabetic
patients [19]. Aqueous extract of Phyllanthus niruri demonstrated significant
hypoglycemic activity in streptozotocininduced diabetic rats [20].
Relatedly,the methanol extract of the plant has also been found to reduce blood
sugar level in alloxan-induced diabetic rats [21] .
Hyperlipidemic
activity Scientific
studies have shown that Phyllanthus niruri has antihyperlipidemic effect. It
was also reported that the aqueous extract exhibited antihyperlipidemic
activity [20]. Hydro-alcoholic extract of leaves of Phyllanthus amarus was also
found to have antihyperlipidemic potential in hyperlipidemic rats [22].
Additionally, phyllantrin which is a bioactive compound of Phyllanthus niruri
was administered for twelve weeks to mice co-fed with High Fat Diet (HFD);
there was protection against HFD induced weight gain and adiposity, reduced
mRNA expression of adipogenic genes and increased expression of lipolytic genes
in white adipose tissue, reduced liver triglyceride accumulation, restoration
of HFD induced serum lipid disturbances as well as reduced serum triglycerides
and free fatty acids in HFD fed mice [23] . The lipid-lowering activity of
Phyllanthus niruri was found to be mediated through inhibition of hepatic
cholesterol biosynthesis, enhanced catabolism of LDL, increased faecal bile
acids excretion and activation of LCAT and tissue lipases [24] .
Hyperuricemic
effect It
was reported that the methanol extract of the leaves of Phyllanthus niruri
exhibited anti hyperuricemic activity in hyperuricemic rats. Lignans isolated
from Phyllanthus niruri (Phyllanthin, hypophyllanthin, phyltetralin and
niranthin) were also found to increase the urinary excretion of uric acid in
hyperuricemic rat. Therefore, the uricosuric effect of this plant may be the
attributed mechanism of anti hyperuricemic action [25] .
Lithiasis
Phyllanthus niruri has shown inhibitory
effect against calcium oxalate crystal growth and aggregation in human urine.
This medicinal plant exhibited antiurolithic activity in both in vitro and in
vivo studies [6] . The aqueous extract of Phyllanthus niruri inhibits the
growth of the matrix calculus as well as decrease the number of stone
satellites in Wistar rats [26]. Oral administration of Phyllanthus niruri
extract by calcium stone forming patients reduced urinary calcium in
hypercalciuric patients [27] .
Nephroprotective
effect of Phyllanthus amarus The
aqueous extract of Phyllanthus amarus at doses of 200 mg and 400 mg/kg/day for
14 days, were found to protect against the nephrotoxic effect of paracetamol
and gentamicin in rat, by maintaining the level of blood urea nitrogen and
serum creatinine within the normal range compared to control group [1]. In
another study, the ethanol extract of the leaves of the plant was investigated
for its nephroprotective activity against gentamicin induced nephrotoxicity in
rats. Co-administration of the extract with gentamicin prevented kidney and
improved all nephrotoxic parameters (physical, urinary and blood) observed
[28]. The extracts of Phyllanthus amarus prepared by dissolving the leaves in
olive oil for fourteen and seven days were tested for their ability to protect
the kidney against cisplatin induced nephrotoxicity. The study revealed
significant decrease
Antiplasmodial
activity Ethanolic extract of Phyllanthus niruri
was found to have potential anti plasmodial activity in vitro by inhibition of
the developmental stage of trophozoite to schizonts [7] . Similar in vitro
study also showed that the callus extract and intact Phyllanthus niruri extract
inhibited the development of trophozoites to schizonts (developmental stage of
Plasmodium falciparum) in a dose-dependent manner. The anti plasmodial activity
of extract of Phyllanthus niruri (whole plant) exhibited a higher anti
plasmodial activity than all calli and intact fresh apical stem extracts [30] .
It was reported that the water extraction of Phyllanthus niruri gives better
results of antiplasmodial activities than ethanolic extraction and only leaves
and stems parts of the plant were active in vitro against plasmodium [31].
1-O-galloyl-6-O-luteoylR-D-glucose isolated from the Phyllanthus niruri was
found to have inhibitory effect against Chloroquine-susceptible P. falciparum
strain in vitro [32]. Chloroform/ethanol extract of Phyllanthus niruri showed
significant inhibition of P. falciparum growth at different concentrations [33]
.
Antinematodal
activity Two compounds isolated from Phyllanthus
amarus, 8-(3-methyl-but2–enyl)-2-phenyl chroman-4-one and
2-(4-hydroxyphenyl)-8-(3- methyl-but-2–enyl)-chroman-4-one were found to have
antinematodal activity against Meloidegyne incognita and Rotelenchulus
reniformis [34] .
Antibacterial
activity Phyllanthus amarus has broad spectrum
antibacterial activity on both gram positive and gram negative bacteria. A
study carried out on different bacterial isolates; Bacillus stearothermophilus,
Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus subtilis, Micrococcus leuteus, Salmonella
typhi, Enterobacter aerogens, Proteus mirabilis, and Proteus vulgaris revealed
that P. amarus showed the least MIC on all bacteria tested [35]. Similarly, the
methanolic extract of Phyllanthus amarus was found to have potent inhibitory
effect against drugresistant pathogenic gram-negative bacteria; Shigella spp.,
E. coli, V. cholerae, S. aureus, S. typhimurium, P. aeruginosa, B. subtilis,
Klebsiella and Streptococcus sp. in a dose-dependent manner [36] .
Hepatoprotective
effect The Protein isolate of Phyllanthus
niruri indicates hepatoprotective effect against acetaminophen-induced toxicity
[37]. Another study also showed that the aqueous extract of Phyllanthus niruri
inhibited paracetamol induced hepatotoxicity in mice [38]. Similarly, fishes
pretreated with Phyllanthus niruri extract were protected against
paracetamol-induced hepatotoxicity when compared to control [39]. It was also
reported that a protein isolated from Phyllanthus niruri protects against
oxidative damage of hepatocytes induced by carbon tetrachloride [40]. Both
aqueous and methanol extracts of Phyllanthus niruri have been demonstrated to
possess hepatoprotective effect [41] . The extract of Phyllanthus amarus was
also found to increase hepatic cell function [16] . Similarly, another study
reported the hepatoprotective effect of Phyllanthus amarus in ethanol-induced
hepatotoxicity and the effect was comparable to standard hepatoprotective drug
silymarin. The hepatoprotective effect of the extract was associated with its
antioxidant activity [42] . Phyllanthus amarus extract and phyllanthin isolated
from the aerial part of the plant were found to protect the human hepatoma
HepG2 Cell line against carbon tetrachloride induced hepatotoxicity.
Phyllanthin demonstrated the hepatoprotective effect at a lower dose compared
to Phyllanthus amarus extract and the effect was in a dose-dependent manner
[43]. Combination of ethanolic extract of Phyllanthus amarus and silymarin
gives synergistic hepatoprotective activity against carbon
tetrachloride-induced hepatotoxicity. The effect was associated with higher
concentration of phyllanthin. A combination of silymarin with ethanol extract
provided higher hepatoprotective activity than when combined with aqueous
extract [44]
Effect on
Viral Infections It was reported that the extract
of Phyllanthus amarus in an in vitro study inhibited DNA polymerase in
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) and Woodchuck hepatitis virus (WHV). Also, in vivo
study shows that the extract of Phyllanthus amarus has effect against Hepatitis
B virus in infected human [45]. Another study revealed that the extract blocked
enzymes that play an important role in the reproduction of hepatitis B virus
[46]. Oral administration of Phyllanthus amarus was found to decrease the
mortality rate and significantly increase the survival of hepatocellular
carcinoma harboring animals [47]. It was also reported that an aqueous extract
of Phyllanthus niruri inhibits endogenous DNA polymerase of hepatitis B virus
and binds to the surface antigen of hepatitis B virus in vitro. The extract
also inhibits woodchuck hepatitis virus DNA polymerase and binds to the surface
antigen of WHV in vitro [48] .It was reported that the alkaloidal extract of
Phyllanthus niruri inhibited the growth of both HIV-1 and HIV-2 strains
cultured on human MT-4 cells [46]. Similarly, the water alcoholic extract of
Phyllanthus amarus was found to be a potent inhibitor of HIV-1 replication in
HeLaCD4+ and also inhibited the RT inhibitor-resistant HIV strains. The
inhibitory effect of Phyllanthus amarus against HIV strain was both in vitro
and in vivo [49, 50] . Niruriside, a novel compound isolated from Phyllanthus
niruri exhibited anti-HIV activity. It was found to exert inhibitory effect
against the binding of REV protein to RRE RNA with an IC50 value of 3.3 µM [51]
.
Effect on
Reproductive system Methanol extracts of the leaves
of Phyllanthus amarus lead to a decrease in sperm motility and count of male
guinea pigs in a dosedependent manner. The effect was comparable to the
observed effects of Vitamin E on sperm parameters [52] . The ethanolic extract
of Phyllanthus amarus significantly affected the litter size and weight of
Wistar albino rats at birth in a dose-dependent manner [8] . The alcohol
extract of a whole plant of Phyllanthus amarus was found to show reversible
antifertility effect in female mice [53]. Similarly, Phyllanthus amarus when
given orally to male albino mice induced gradual inhibition of fertility
potential with a decline in epididymal sperm profiles. However, the
antifertility effect was reversible upon withdrawal of medicinal plant [54] .
The methanolic extract of Phyllanthus amarus leaves caused significant increase
in the level of testosterone of male Guinea pigs in a dose- and time- dependent
manner. It also caused changes in the levels of Leutenizing (LH) and Follicle
stimulating (FSH) hormones. These changes caused by Phyllanthus amarus were
comparable to the changes caused by vitamin E on Leutenizing (LH) and Follicle
stimulating (FSH) hormones. [4] .
Effect on
Cardiovascular System It was reported that methyl
brevifolincarboxylate (MB) isolated from the leaves of Phyllanthus niruri L.
exerted vasorelaxant effect on the aortic rings of rat. It also antagonised the
vasoconstriction effect of Norepinephrine [55]. MB was also found to have
potent inhibitory effect against platelet aggregation; the effect was
comparable to known inhibitor of platelet aggregation adenosine [3] . In a
recent study, the aqueous extract of Phyllantus amarus was tested for its
cardioprotective property against high-fructose (HF) diet induced cardiac
damage in Wistar rats; the aqueous extract prevented the increase in levels of
cardiac and aortic lipids i.e., total lipids, triglycerides, total cholesterol
and free fatty acids and decreased phospholipids after co-administration with
the HF for sixty days [56]. Yao et al. (2018) compared the diuretic effect of
the ethanolic fraction of the plant (EEPA) to that of a standard drug
(frusemide); the diuretic effect of EEPA was comparable to the standard with an
additional benefit of not promoting kaliuresis. Furthermore, the diuretic
activity was attributed, at least in part, to the involvement of prostaglandins
[57] .
Analgesic,
Anti-inflammatory and antiulcer activity Studies
have shown that extract of Phyllanthus amarus has an antiinflammatory effect;
and that it is effective in preventing persistent neuropathic pain, as well as
prevent both ipsilateral and contralateral persistent nociception [58]. Another
study showed that P. niruri exhibited potent systemic antinociceptive actions
against two models of neurogenic pain [59] . Similarly, methanol extract of
Phyllanthus amarus significantly inhibited gastric lesions induced by
intragastric administration of absolute ethanol. Aqueous and methanol extracts
of Phyllanthus amarus were found to have anti-inflammatory activity [60]
Radioprotective
effect It was also reported that Phyllanthus
amarus improved antioxidant activity in liver and blood of irradiated mice
[61]. Similarly, Phyllanthus amarus prevented the genotoxic effect of radiation
on mice chromosome, and it prevented the intestine from radiation induced
damages as evident by decreased peroxidation level of intestinal membrane and
elevated antioxidant system [62] .
Cancer and cytotoxicity
Phyllanthus amarus offers protection against
chemical carcinogenesis. It was reported that the aqueous extract of
Phyllanthus amarus significantly inhibited hepatocarcinogenesis induced by
Nnitrosodiethylamine (NDEA) in a dose-dependent manner in male Wistar rats [63]
. Phyllanthus amarus extract was also found to have significant activity
against chemically induced tumour. Inhibition of cell cycle regulation,
topoisomerase II, P450 enzymes as well as antioxidant activity may contribute
to the overall activity of the extract against carcinogenesis induced in
animals and this may be relevant to human cancer as well [64]. It was reported
that the extract of Phyllanthus amarus inhibited the mutagenicity produced by
direct acting mutagens. It also inhibited the activation and mutagenicity of
2-acetaminofluorene (2-AAF), which in turn declined the mutagenesis and
possibly carcinogenic potential. Oral administration of Phyllanthus extract was
found to significantly inhibit urinary mutagenicity produced in rats by benzo-
pyrene [65]. The study showed that the methanol extract of Phyllanthus amarus
has Chemopreventive activity against N-methyl N’-nitro-N-nitrosoguanidine
(MNNG) induced stomach cancer in Wistar rats [66]. The aqueous extract of
Phyllanthus amarus has also demonstrated anti-mutagenic and antigenotoxic
properties as indicated by the extracts ability to protect against the
mutagenic effects of 2-aminofluorene, 2-aminoanthracene,
4-nitroquinoline-1-oxide, N-ethyl-N-nitro-nitrosogua- nidine, 2- nitrofluorene
and sodium azide in test bacteria. In addition, the extract antagonizes DNA
damage caused by DMN in hamster liver [67] .
Effect of
Phyllanthus amarus on metabolizing enzymes (CYP P450 3A Family) Phyllanthus
amarus significantly inhibits the Metabolism of CYPA5 and CYPA7 enzymes which
are essential enzymes responsible for phase 1 drug metabolism.
Co-administration of Phyllanthus amarus with orthodox drugs that are completely
metabolized by CYP3A Family can lead to therapeutic failure, drug interaction
and adverse effect since it will interferes with it metabolism [68]. Another
study showed that CYP1A2, CYP2C9, CYP2D6 AND CYP3A4 enzymes were inhibited by
aqueous extract of Phyllanthus amarus similarly human and rat glutathione
S-transferases (GSTS) liver cytosolic enzyme was strongly inhibited by
Phyllanthus amarus [69] . Similarly, in in vitro study it was also found out
that the extract of Phyllanthus amarus significantly inhibited CYP1A1, CYP1A2,
CYP2B1/2, CYP2E1, CYP 1A, 2A, 2B, 2D and 3A enzymes activity, while in in vivo
study indicated the activity of P450 enzymes after phenobarbitone
administration elevated but oral administration of Phyllanthus amarus was found
to reduce the activity [70]. The effect of Phyllanthus amarus extract on the
pharmacokinetic profile of midazolam has been studied and found to interfere
with CYP3A4, thereby increasing the blood level of the drug [71]. The mean
maximum concentration (Cmax), time to reach maximum concentration (Tmax), area
under curve (AUC0-8), and elimination half-life (T1/2) (2.9-, 1.6-, 2.8-, and
1.4-fold, respectively) were all increased when compared to control group
receiving a single oral dose of midazolam [71] .
TOXICITY STUDY (Danladi S, Idris MA, and Umar II. 2018)
Toxicity
study of aqueous extract of Phyllanthus amarus showed that the extract can
cause anaemia because it is associated with decrease in the red blood cell
(RBC) count, packed cell volume (PCV), haemoglobin concentration (Hb) level of
alanine aminotransferase (ALT); but there is an increase in the white blood
cell (WBC) count, levels of aspartate aminotransferase (AST), total conjugated
bilirubin, total protein and albumin. The extract also causes a decrease in
body weight of laboratory animal. Histopathology study has shown that the
kidney, liver and testes are affected by the plant; these showed the toxic
potential of the plant [72]. The fractions of Phyllanthus amarus obtained from
chromatographic separation showed that the plant has toxic effect on blood
products [73]. Single oral dose and sub-acute toxicity study of Phyllanthus amarus
showed that the medicinal plant is non-toxic with an LD50 > 5 g/kg; which is
a clear indication that it is safe, but associated with slight cytotoxic effect
to the human adenocarcinoma cell line [75].
The
difference between this study and that of Adedapo et al. (2005a72 & b)73
may be as a result of variation in experimental condition and procedure.
However, Singh et al. (2016) reported an LD50 of 2590.984 mg/Kg bw in Swiss
albino mice model in laboratory condition when administered with aqueous extract
of the plant. Doses above 2500 mg/Kg bw demonstrated a statistically
signification elevation of urea level and histopathological changes were
observed; with no significant increase in creatinine level [76] . Another study
showed that alcohol extract of the whole plant was not toxic as it displayed no
effect on blood cell counts, Hb levels and serum biochemical parameters.
Moreover, the body weights of test animals were affected by the extract [53,
54] .
Antioxidant (Danladi S,
Idris MA, and Umar II. 2018)
Phyllanthus
niruri showed significant improvement of body antioxidant activities in both
insulin and non-insulin dependent diabetes mellitus animals [18]. A protein
isolated from Phyllanthus niruri has also been showed to act as radical
scavenger, thereby scavenging the free radicals released by the toxic effect of
carbon tetrachloride in hepatocytes. The hepatoprotective effect of Phyllanthus
niruri may be associated with it action at cellular level by reducing oxidative
stress as a radical scavenger and promoting antioxidative defense mechanism of
the cells [40] . In vitro antioxidant assay showed that the plant is an
effective radical scavenger [62] . High phenolic content of Phyllanthus amarus
showed a strong correlation with its antioxidant activity. Phyllanthus amarus
has a high antioxidant activity because of its several phenolic constituents
and it inhibits chromium (VI) induced oxidative toxicity to MDAMB-435S human
breast carcinoma cells [76]. Similarly, it was also reported that Phyllanthus
amarus has a strong free radical scavenging The Journal of Phytopharmacology
345 activity and ferric reducing property; its strong free radical scavenging
activity is associated with its high phenolic content. The methanol extract of
dried Phyllanthus amarus has lower antioxidant property compared to fresh
sample [77] . Phyllanthus amarus was found to have effective in vivo
antioxidant activity as seen by its ability to inhibit carbon tetrachloride
induce lipid peroxidation in rat liver; while in vitro antioxidant activity
showed that the plant has high radical scavenging activity [41] . Phyllanthin
was reported to have higher radical scavenging capacity than Phyllanthus
amarus, as indicated by its higher antioxidant activity than Phyllanthus amarus
[43] . Phyllanthus amarus demonstrated antioxidant activities as indicated by
its ability to increase the activities of enzymic and non-enzymic antioxidants and
reduce malondialdehyde levels [20]. The methanol extract of Phyllanthus amarus
was found to possess potential antioxidant activity as evident by its ability
to inhibit lipid peroxidation and scavenge hydroxyl and superoxide radicals in
vitro [21]. Aqueous extract of Phyllanthus niruri exhibited high free radical
scavenging, inhibition of reactive oxygen and lipid peroxidation [39] .
Phyllanthus amarus alleviated oxidative stress induced by nimesulide in the
liver as evident by the outcome of post-treatment; with Phyllanthus amarus
rapidly restoring most of the Nimesulideinduced oxidative changes compared to
those obtained by the selfrecovery of liver [78].
RECENT FINDINGS (Krishnamurthy, K. H. 2014)
The dried leaves contain 0.4 per cent of a toxic bitter principle
named phyllanthine (after the generic name) and this is the chief medically
active substance of the plant. It is found to be poisonous to fish and frogs.
In frogs, it causes depigmentation of the skin although this is regained after
about 20 hours. The leaves are very rich in potassium, considered to be
responsible for its powerful diuretic effect — the basis for its most
celebrated use in jaundice.
The stem contains saponin, a detergent or cleaning substance. A
decoction from the stem and leaves is used to dye cotton threads black; in
fact, this decoction is so black that it is sometimes used in place of ink. An
alcoholic extract of leaves and roots exhibit anti-bacterial activity
against micrococcus pyrogenes, the pus causing bacteria and Escherichia
coli.
Micrococcus pyrogenes
USES IN TRADITIONAL MEDICINE
1. Gastro-intestinal system
It is used for relieving
many afflictions of the abdomen, such as dyspepsia, colic, diarrhoea and
dysentery.
a.
An infusion of young tender shoots can be
effectively given against chronic dysentery.
b.
The leaves are also boiled in water and
the liquid drunk to arrest acute gripping pains in the stomach.
c.
The most important medicinal value of the
plant lies in its sure use against jaundice. For this purpose, a tolā of fresh
juice from the ground root is given in the early morning along with milk. This
is to be taken twice a day, once in the morning and then before bedtime.
d.
Gargling with a cold extract of leaves
will cure sores and inflammations in the mouth (mukha pak).
e.
Sprue Sprue is a chronic, chiefly tropical disease, characterised by diarrhoea,
emaciation, and anaemia, caused by defective absorption of nutrients from the
intestinal tract. Giving some tender leaves of the plant, along with the seeds
of methi (fenugreek), will set right this chronic and
longstanding disorder.
f.
Edema A decoction from the whole plant mitigates morbid swellings, due to the
retention of fluids in the body or dropsy (jalodara), by inducing
profuse urine flow.
2. Skin
a.
The roots and leaves are pulverised and
made into a paste along with rice water and applied externally as a poultice to
lessen morbid swellings and ulcers.
b.
The milky juice from the plant is a good
application against offensive and foul smelling sores. It is also found to be
effective for difficult and painful tumours.
c.
A poultice, made from the leaves with
salt, cures scabby afflictions and this poultice (without salt, to avoid
burning) can also be applied on open lesions and bruises.
d.
An application of the poultice prepared
from its leaves cures itching, aberrations and eczema.
e.
A decoction from the roots is used as a
cooling reagent for the scalp.
3. Genito-urinary problems
The plant increases the
quantity of urine and also removes burning associated with its flow. Because of
this, it is recommended against gonorrhoea as well. In brief, the plant is very
effective for all diseases of the urinary tract, ranging from the kidney to
outflow of urine.
a.
In cases of new gonorrhoea, administration
of a spoon of fresh juice from the plant, along with sugar and jira,
considerably mitigates any pain in urination.
b.
In the Konkan region, the root is ground
down with rice water (conjee) and given as a remedy for menorrhagia or
excessive menstrual flow.
c.
In the Gold Coast of Africa, the leaves
are pounded and used to cure gonorrhoea.
d.
A paste from the entire plant is applied
externally to reduce morbid swellings of the breasts.
e.
The juice from fresh roots is taken
internally along with milk as a galactagogue (i.e. promoting milk formation in
lactating women).
4. Fever
a.
A liquid decoction from the root and
leaves is very bitter but a favourite and efficient remedy amongst the natives
of Porto Rico in the West Indies for the cure of intermittent fevers. The
expected paroxysm (i.e. the climax stage) of such a fever can be prevented by
its use. The dose is two drachms in the morning when onset is
feared. An infusion of roots and leaves is a good tonic and also a diuretic
when taken in repeated doses.
b.
A decoction from the whole plant is given
against malarial fever. After administration, the stools become normal and
sweating commences. The patient secures sleep. Any enlargement of liver and
spleen, which often accompanies longstanding fever, subsides and slowly the
incidence of intermittent attacks stops.
c.
Intermittent fever A paste is prepared by grinding its tender leaves along with black pepper.
A pellet is made from it, the size of a nutmeg (jayphal) and given for
all intermittent fevers including malaria.
5. Eyes When mixed with oil, the
juice from the plant is useful against inflamed eyes.
Phyllanthus niruri, Linn. Phyllanthus maderaspatensis, Linn.
Phyllanthus urinaria, Linn. Phyllanthus simplex, Retz
ACTIVITIES (Duke, J. A et al., 2009)
Abortifacient (f; RAI);
Aldose-Reductase-Inhibitor (1; MPG; RAI; 60P); Amebicide (1; ZUL); Analgesic
(f1; DAV; DAW; MBC; RAI); Anthelmintic (1; ZUL); Antialcoholic (1; KEB);
Antibabesial (1; X15844943); Anticancer (1; KAB; PHM9:26); Antifertility (1; RAI);
Antigenotoxic (1; PHM9:26); Antihepatomic (1; KEB); Antihepatotoxic (1; DAV;
TRA); Antihyperuricemic (1; X16953466); Antiinflammatory (f1; RAI); Antileukemic
(1; KAB); Antimutagenic (1; PHM9:26; RAI); Antioxidant (1; X16718736);
Antiplasmodial (1; X15844943); Antiseptic (1; MPI; PH2; WOI); Antispasmodic (1;
DAV; KAB; MPI; RAI; TRA); Antiulcer (f1; JFM; RAI); Antiviral (1; KEB; PH2;
RAI; SKY; TRA); Aperitive (f; DAV; DAW); Astringent (f; KAB; SKJ); Bactericide
(1; HH2; RAI; TRA; WOI; ZUL); Bitter (1; KAB; MPI; PH2); Carminative (f; DAV;
DAW; RAI); Chemopreventive (f1; RAI); Cholagogue (f; GMJ); Contraceptive (1;
PR15:265); Deobstruent (f; ADP; MPB; RAI; SKJ); Depurative (f; JFM); Diaphoretic
(f; MPB); Digestive (f; DAV; DAW; RAI); Diuretic (f1; DAW; HHB; JFM; KAB; SKJ;
TRA; WOI); DNA-Polymerase-Inhibitor (1; SKY); Emetic (f; MPG); Emmenagogue (f;
DAV; DAW; NPM); Febrifuge (1; DAV; MPI; RAI; SKJ; TRA); Fungicide (1; ZUL);
Gastroprotective (1; RAI); Hepatoprotective (f1; KAB; KEB; MBC; RAI;
X16718736); HIV-RTInhibitor (1; KEB); Hypocholesterolemic (1; MPG; RAI); Hypoglycemic
(= >Tolbutamide) (1; DAV; KAB; KEB; MPI; RAI; TRA); Hypotensive (1; MBC;
RAI; X8786163); Hypotriglyceridemic (1; RAI); Hypouricemic (f1; JFM;
X16953466); Immunostimulant (1; X16252911); Lactagogue (f; ADP; KAP; WOI);
Laxative (f1; DAV; DAW; KAB; RAI); Litholytic (f1; DAV; RAI; X16896689);
Myorelaxant (1; RAI); Natriuretic (1; MPB; RAI); Piscicide (1; JFM; WOI);
Protein-Kinase-Inhibitor (1; HH2); Protisticide (1; ZUL); Radioprotective (1;
RAI); Refrigerant (f; KAB); RT-Inhibitor (1; RAI); Sedative (f; 60P); Stomachic
(f; DAW; SKJ); Tonic (f; DAV; DAW; KAB); Uricosuric (1; MBC); Uterorelaxant (1;
RAI); Vasorelaxant (1; X16394535); Vermifuge (f; DAV; DAW; RAI); Vulnerary (f;
KAB).
INDICATIONS (Phyllanthus)
— (Duke, J. A et al., 2002 )
Acne (f; JFM);
Alcoholism (1; KEB); Ameba (1; ZUL); Amenorrhea f; 60P); Anorexia (f; DAV); Ascites
(f; PH2); Bacteria (1; HH2; TRA; WOI; ZUL); Biliousness (f; JFM); Blackhead (f;
JFM); Blennorrhagia (f; DAV); Calculus (f; JFM); Cancer (1; JLH; KAB; MPI);
Cancer, abdomen (f; JLH); Cancer, colon (f; JLH); Colic (f; DAV; JFM; PH2;
WOI); Conjunctivosis (f; HH3); Constipation (f; DAV; KAB; KAP; PH2); Cramp (1;
DAV; KAB; MPI; PH2; TRA); Debility (f; HH3); Dermatosis (f; JFM; KAP); Diabetes
(f; DAV; JFM; KAB; KEB; MPI; PH2); Diarrhea (f; PH2; WOI); Dropsy (f; DAV; MPI;
SKJ); Dysentery (f; DAV; MPI; PH2; SKJ); Dyspepsia (f; MPI; WOI); Dysuria (f;
JFM; KAP); Edema (f; JFM; KAP; MPI; SKJ); Enterosis (f; JFM; JLH); Escherichia
(1; HH3); Fever (1; DAV; HHB; KAB; MPI; PH2; SKJ;
TRA);
Flu (f; DAV); Fungus (1; MPI; ZUL); Gallstone (f; HH3); Gastrosis (f; HHB; JFM;
PH2); Gonorrhea (f; HH3; MPI; SKJ); Gout (f; JFM); Gravel (f; JFM; 60P);
Hepatosis (2; KEB; MPI; SKY); Herpes (1; HH3); High Cholesterol (1; 60P); HIV
(1; ABS); Hyperglycemia (1; DAV; KAB; KEB; MPI; TRA); Hyperuricemia (f; JFM);
Infection (1; MPI; PH2; ZUL); Infertility (f; PH2); Insomnia (f; 60P); Itch (f;
DAV; KAP); Jaundice (2; DEP; HHB; HH3; KEB; MPI; SKY); Leukemia (1; KAB; MPI);
Malaria (f; DAV; DEP; KAB; HH3; PH2); Menorrhagia (f; KAP; MPI); Mycosis (1;
MPI; ZUL); Nephrosis (f; DAV; JFM); Nervousness (f; 60P); Ophthalmia (f; KAP;
MPI; PH2; WOI); Ovary (f; JFM); Pain (f; DAV); Parasite (1; ZUL); Prostatosis
(f; DAV); Prolapse (f; JFM); Pulmonosis (f; 60P); Ringworm (1; ZUL); Scabies
(1; DEP; KAB; PH2; ZUL); Snakebite (f; HH3); Sore (f; DEP; MPI; PH2; WOI);
Staphylococcus (1; HH3; 60P); Stomachache (f; DAV); Stone (f; HH3); Swelling
(f; KAB; MPI; SKJ); Tachycardia (f; PH2); Tenesmus (f; DAV); Tumor (f; JLH); Ulcer
(f; JFM; SKJ; 60P); Urogenitosis (f; DEP; KAB; MPI; PH2); UTI (f; SKJ);
Vaginosis (f; DAV); VD (f; KAB; HH3); Virus (1; HH3; KAB; KEB; PH2; SKY; TRA);
Womb (f; JFM); Worm (1; DAV; ZUL); Wound (f; PH2).
DOSAGES (Phyllanthus) — (Duke, J. A et al., 2002 )
900–2700
mg plant powder/day/3 months (SKY); 10 plants/liter water (PH2); 3–6 g powdered
herb (KAP);
14–28
ml tea (KAP); 2–6 ml extract (1:2) (KEB).
DOSAGES (Duke,
J. A et al., 2009 )
FNFF
= X.
Not considered a food. 3–6 g powdered herb (KAP);
14–28 ml tea (KAP); 900–2,700 mg plant
powder/day for 3 mos (SKY); 10 plants/l water (PH2); 1–3 cups weekly for
prevention, 3–4 cups/day to expel stones (RAI); 2–3 g capsule/tablet 2×/day (RAI); 2–6 ml
extract (1:2) (KEB).
v Amazonians use for alopecia, amenorrhea, cancer,
colic, colitis, constipation, • diabetes, dysentery, dyspepsia, edema,
enterosis, fever, flu, gallstones, gas, gonorrhea, itch, jaundice, kidney
stones, malaria, nephrosis, oliguria, pain, proctosis, spasms, stomachache, vaginitis,
and worms (DAV; RAI; SAR).
v Ayurevdics use for menorrhagia and oliguria
(KAB).
v Bahamans use for bacterial infection, cold,
constipation, fever, flu, and high blood sugar (RAI). \
v Brazilians use for albuminuria, arthrosis,
biliousness, bladder • stones, cancer, catarrh, cholecocystosis, colic,
cystosis, diabetes, dyspepsia, dysuria, edema, enterosis, fever, flu, gallstones,
gas, gastrosis, gonorrhea, gout, hepatosis, high blood pressure, hyperuricemia,
inflammation, jaundice, kidney stones, malaria, nephrosis, obesity, oliguria, pain,
proctosis, prostatitis, spasms, stomachache, and uterosis, (MPB; RAI).
v Cubans use P. niruri for biliousness, diabetes, dysentery, fever,
malaria, and oliguria (AUS).
v Haitians use for colic, colitis, dyspepsia,
enterosis, fever, flu, gas, malaria, spasm, stomachache, and oliguria (RAI).
v Nepalese apply leaf juice to cuts, inflammation,
pimples, swelling, and wounds (NPM).
v Puerto Ricans use tincture as diuretic tonic in
malaria with splenic and hepatic ails (KAB).
v Yunani use plant for dysentery, gastrosis, and
sores, the fruits for bruises, ringworm, scabies, and tubercular sores (KAB).
STONE LEAF INGREDIENTS FOR SKIN AND
FACE (Jamuin. Com. 2017)
DOWNSIDES (Duke,
J. A et al., 2009)
Not covered (AHP; KOM; PNC). “No health hazards
or side effects are known in conjunction with the proper administration of
designated therapeutic dosages” (PH2). None reported (SKY). Taylor (2005),
reflecting on reports of abortifacient and antifertility effects, cautions against
use during pregnancy and advises cardiac and diabetic patients to consult their
practitioner before taking. Phyllanthus amarus potentially toxic (X16317655). As of July 2007,
the FDA Poisonous Plant Database listed seven titles alluding to toxicity of
this species.
EXTRACTS (Duke,
J. A et al., 2009)
Alcoholic extracts bactericidal to Escherichia
coli and Micrococcus
pyogenes (WOI). Protein fraction
of P. niruri
hepatoprotective against
oxidative stress in mice (X16718736). Lignans hepatoprotective in
vitro (KEB). Of three lignans
(phyllanthin, hypophyllanthin, and phyltetralin) phyllanthin proved
hypouricemic, comparable to allopurinol, benzbromarone, and probenecid
(X16953466). Aqueous extracts (with repandusinic acid A) inhibit HIV reverse transcriptase
in vitro. Aqueous extracts
comparable to tolbutamide as oral hypoglycemic (ZUL). LD50 dry aqueous whole
plant extract 3,300 mg/kg ipr mus (HH3). Methyl brevifolincarboxylate, from the
leaves of P. niruri, exhibited vasorelaxant effect on rat aortic
rings (X16394535). Arabinogalactan from aqueous plant extracts stimulated
superoxide anion production in peritoneal macrophages of mice without
interfering with the nitric oxide pathway (X16252911). “P. niruri has been widely used against jaundice in Indian
traditional medicine. Various classes of chemical constituents, such as
lignans, flavonoids, triterpenoids, tannins, and alkaloids, were isolated from
this plant. Its aqueous extract has been reported to inhibit DNA polymerase of
hepatitis B and woodchuck hepatitis viruses, the avian myeloblastosis virus
reverse transcriptase (AMV-RT), and human immunodeficiency virus type-1 reverse
transcriptase (HIV-1-RT)” (X8991954). That’s over my head too but means that
the tea contains chemicals that might prove useful at taming several viruses,
even the HIV virus.
CONTRAINDICATIONS,
INTERACTIONS, AND SIDE EFFECTS (Duke,
J. A et al., 2002)
Not
covered (AHP; KOM; PNC).
“Hazards and/or side effects not known for proper therapeutic dosages” (PH2).
None reported (SKY).
EXTRACTS
(Duke, J. A et al., 2002)
Alcoholic
extracts bactericidal to Escherichia coli and
Micrococcus pyogenes (WOI). Lignans are hepatoprotective in vitro (KEB).
Aqueous extracts (with repandusinic acid A) inhibit HIV-RT in vitro.
Aqueous extracts are comparable to tolbutamide as oral hypoglycemic (ZUL).
LD50 dry aqueous whole plant extract 3300 mg/kg ipr mouse (HH3). (Duke,
J. A et al., 2002)
REFERENCE
Danladi S*, Idris MA, Umar II. 2018. Review
on pharmacological activities and phytochemical constituents of Phyllanthus
niruri (Amarus). The Journal of
Phytopharmacology 2018; 7(3): 341-348 Online at: www.phytopharmajournal.com ISSN 2320-480X JPHYTO 2018; 7(3): 341-348
May- June Received: 09-03-2018 Accepted: 26-04-2018 © 2018, All rights reserved
Duke, J. A. with
Mary Jo Bogenschutz-Godwin, Judi duCellier, Peggy-Ann K. Duke. 2002. Handbook of Medicinal Herbs 2nd Ed.
CRC Press LLC. USA.
Duke, J.A., Godwin,M.J.B.,
Ottesen, A.R. 2009. Duke's Handbook of Medicinal Plants of Latin
America. CRC Press Taylor &
Francis Group.
Handayani, V and Nurfadillah. PHARMACOGNOSTIC STUDY
OF GREEN MENIRAN (Phyllanthus niruri L.) and RED MENIRAN HERBA (Phyllanthus
urinaria L.) Indonesian Journal of Fitofarmaka, Vol 1 No.1;
virsaichafarmasi@yahoo.com 1) Faculty of Pharmacy, Indonesian Muslim University
Makassar
Jamuin 2017. How to Make Meniran Leaf Remedy for
Skin and Face. JAMUIN Pustaka Herba, Indonesian Herbal Medicine. JAMUIN Herbal
Library, Indonesian Herbs
https://www.jamuin.com/2017/04/how-making-food-dream-meniran-for.html.
Entertaining 4/09/2017
Krishnamurthy, K. H. 2014.
Bhūmī āmalakī, Phyllanthus. Medicinal plants THE JOURNAL OF INTEGRAL HEALTH NAMAH Journal ; Volume 22 Issue 3
15th October 2014.
Paithankar
V. V., Raut K. S., Charde R. M., Vyas J. V. Vidyabharati 2011. Review Article Phyllanthus Niruri: A
magic Herb. Research in Pharmacy 1(4) : 1-9,
2011 ISSN : 2231-539X www.researchinpharmacy.com 2011. college of Pharmacy, Amravati Email.ID : vivekp62@gmail.com Paithankar et al. / Research in Pharmacy 1(4)
: 1-9, 2011
Ross, I. A. 2004. Medicinal
Plants of the World Vol. 1. Chemical Constituents, Traditional and Modern
Medical Uses.
Human Press. Totowa, New Jersey.
No comments:
Post a Comment