A genus of plant long used in ayurvedic medicine, Phyllanthus is touted as a natural remedy for health problems ranging from colds and urinary tract infections to diabetes and kidney disorders. Some proponents claim that plants of the Phyllanthus genus can also help ease pain and enhance liver health.
Although scientific research on the health effects of any type of plant in the Phyllanthus genus is fairly limited, there's some evidence that certain species may deliver antioxidants, lignans (a type of phytoestrogen), and tannins (a class of anti-inflammatory compounds).
Additionally, preliminary research suggests that extracts of the Phyllanthus polyphyllus, Phyllanthus emblica, and Phyllanthus indofischeri plants may help protect against liver damage. And in a small study published in BJU International, scientists discovered that treatment with Phyllanthus niruri may help inhibit the formation of kidney stones.
