Phyllanthus

(Stone Breaker)
Sanskrit: भूम्यामलकी • Botanical: Phyllanthus niruri Linn.

Bhumyamalaki (Phyllanthus niruri) is a small annual herb growing up to 2000 feet altitude. It closely resembles a miniature Amla plant, with small leaves and tiny fruits arranged along the underside of branches. It is one of the best herbs for liver disorders, jaundice, and hepatitis. The whole plant is used. It contains Phyllanthin as the main active principle. Phyllanthus urinaria Linn. is mentioned as a related species. The plant is used extensively in modern phytomedicine for hepatoprotective activity. Dose: Swarasa 5-12 tola; Churna 0.5-0.95 tola. Verse: 269-276.

Ayurvedic Properties

Taste (Rasa)
Bitter (Tikta), Astringent (Kashaya), Sweet (Madhura)
Quality (Guna)
Light (Laghu), Dry (Ruksha)
Potency (Virya)
Cold (Sheeta)
Post-digestive (Vipaka)
Sweet (Madhura)
Key Constituents
Phyllanthin, Hypophyllanthin, Tannins, Lignans
Also Known As
English: Stone Breaker, Stonebreaker
Sanskrit: भूम्यामलकी, तामलकी, भूधात्री
Hindi: भूईंआँवला, जरमाला

What is Phyllanthus (Bhumyamalaki / भूम्यामलकी)?

Bhumyamalaki (Phyllanthus niruri) is a small annual herb growing up to 2000 feet altitude. It closely resembles a miniature Amla plant, with small leaves and tiny fruits arranged along the underside of branches. It is one of the best herbs for liver disorders, jaundice, and hepatitis. The whole plant is used. It contains Phyllanthin as the main active principle. Phyllanthus urinaria Linn. is mentioned as a related species. The plant is used extensively in modern phytomedicine for hepatoprotective activity. Dose: Swarasa 5-12 tola; Churna 0.5-0.95 tola. Verse: 269-276.

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 3

Therapeutic Actions (Karma)

  • Yakritroganashaka (liver protective)
  • Pittashamaka (pacifies Pitta)
  • Raktapittahara (alleviates bleeding)
  • Krimighna (anthelmintic)
  • Mutrala (diuretic)
  • Netrya (good for eyes)

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 3

Medical Disclaimer: The information on this page is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Ayurvedic treatments should be pursued under the guidance of a qualified practitioner (BAMS/MD Ayurveda). Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any new treatment. Content is sourced from classical Ayurvedic texts and may not reflect the latest medical research.