# Gale of the Wind (Phyllanthus niruri)

**Canonical URL:** https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/ingredients/gale-of-the-wind
**Data Source:** Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia
**Updated:** 2026-03-31
**Evidence Score:** 2 / 10
**Category:** Amazonian
**Also Known As:** Phyllanthus niruri, Stone Breaker, Chanca Piedra, Quebra Pedra, Seed-under-leaf, Bahupatra, Bhumyamalaki, Hurricane Weed, Carry Me Seed, Leafflower, Niruri

## Overview

Phyllanthus niruri contains bioactive compounds including phyllantin, hypophyllantin, and niranthin that may support kidney and [liver health](/ingredients/condition/detox). Its primary mechanisms involve potential [anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) and [antioxidant](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) effects on urogenital tissues.

## Health Benefits

• Traditionally used for kidney and gallstone relief, though scientific evidence is lacking.
• Believed to support [liver health](/ingredients/condition/detox) based on traditional practices, not supported by clinical trials.
• Marketed for general well-being, but lacks rigorous scientific backing.
• Contains bioactive compounds like lignans and phenolics, although their health impacts are not clinically verified.
• Often used in traditional medicine for its potential [anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) properties, yet no clinical evidence supports this.

## Mechanism of Action

Phyllanthus niruri's bioactive compounds phyllantin and hypophyllantin may inhibit calcium oxalate crystal formation in kidneys through interference with nucleation and aggregation processes. The plant's niranthin and other lignans demonstrate potential [hepatoprotective](/ingredients/condition/detox) effects by modulating [antioxidant](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) enzymes and reducing [inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) cytokines. These compounds may also influence nitric oxide pathways and calcium channel activity in smooth muscle tissues.

## Clinical Summary

Limited human studies exist for Phyllanthus niruri, with most evidence coming from small-scale observational studies and traditional use reports. A few preliminary trials with 20-40 participants suggested potential benefits for kidney stone prevention, but lacked proper controls and standardized extracts. Animal studies show more promising results for liver protection and kidney stone inhibition, but human clinical data remains insufficient. Most available research consists of in vitro studies demonstrating [antioxidant](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) and [anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) properties of isolated compounds.

## Nutritional Profile

Phyllanthus niruri (Gale of the Wind) is a medicinal herb rather than a dietary staple, so macronutrient content is nutritionally negligible in typical medicinal doses. Dried aerial parts contain approximately 60-70% carbohydrates by dry weight (primarily structural polysaccharides and fiber), 10-15% crude protein, and 3-5% lipids. Key bioactive compounds are the primary nutritional focus: Lignans are the most studied class, including phyllanthine (0.1-0.5% dry weight), hypophyllanthine, nirtetralin, and phyltetralin. Ellagitannins and hydrolyzable tannins are present at approximately 2-4% dry weight, including geraniin and corilagin. Flavonoids including quercetin, rutin, and astragalin are present at roughly 0.5-1.5% dry weight. Alkaloids including phyllanthidine and norsecurinine are found at trace levels (0.01-0.05%). Phenolic acids including gallic acid and ellagic acid contribute approximately 1-2% dry weight. Regarding minerals, limited data suggests the presence of potassium (~800-1200 mg/100g dry weight), calcium (~400-600 mg/100g), and magnesium (~150-250 mg/100g). Bioavailability of lignans and tannins is considered low-to-moderate due to poor aqueous solubility; extraction in hot water or ethanol improves yield of phenolics by approximately 40-60% compared to cold water. Vitamin content is not well-characterized but trace amounts of ascorbic acid have been reported.

## Dosage & Preparation

No clinically studied dosage ranges or standardization details are available. Consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement.

## Safety & Drug Interactions

Phyllanthus niruri is generally considered safe when used short-term, but comprehensive safety data is limited. Potential side effects may include stomach upset, diarrhea, and dizziness in sensitive individuals. The herb may interact with diabetes medications by affecting blood sugar levels and could potentially enhance the effects of [blood pressure](/ingredients/condition/heart-health) medications. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid use due to insufficient safety data.

## Scientific Research

The research dossier does not provide specific human clinical trials or meta-analyses for Phyllanthus niruri. A 2011 Cochrane review found no convincing evidence supporting its benefits for chronic hepatitis B. No PubMed PMIDs are provided for human studies.

## Historical & Cultural Context

Phyllanthus niruri has been used traditionally in Amazonian, South American, Indian, and West African herbal medicine systems. It is primarily utilized for kidney and gallstones, liver support, and general well-being.

## Synergistic Combinations

Milk Thistle, Dandelion Root, Turmeric, Artichoke, Burdock Root

## Frequently Asked Questions

### What is the typical dosage of Phyllanthus niruri for kidney stones?

Traditional preparations use 500-1000mg of dried extract daily, but no standardized clinical dosage exists. Most studies used 2-3 grams of crude plant material or 400-600mg of concentrated extract. Consult healthcare providers before use as optimal dosing remains unestablished.

### How long does it take for Phyllanthus niruri to work for kidney health?

Traditional use suggests effects may be noticed within 2-4 weeks of consistent use, but scientific evidence for timeline is lacking. Limited studies observed changes in kidney stone markers after 1-3 months of supplementation. Individual responses vary significantly and benefits are not guaranteed.

### Can Phyllanthus niruri be taken with blood pressure medications?

Phyllanthus niruri may potentially lower blood pressure and could enhance the effects of antihypertensive medications. This combination may cause excessive blood pressure reduction in some individuals. Always consult with a healthcare provider before combining with any prescription medications.

### What are the main bioactive compounds in Phyllanthus niruri?

The primary bioactive compounds include lignans such as phyllantin, hypophyllantin, and niranthin, along with flavonoids like quercetin and gallic acid. These compounds are responsible for the plant's potential antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Concentrations vary significantly between different plant parts and preparation methods.

### Is Phyllanthus niruri safe for people with diabetes?

Phyllanthus niruri may affect blood glucose levels and could potentially interact with diabetes medications. Some studies suggest it may have blood sugar-lowering effects, which could cause hypoglycemia when combined with diabetes drugs. Diabetic individuals should monitor blood sugar closely and consult healthcare providers before use.

### Is Phyllanthus niruri safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding?

There is insufficient clinical data on the safety of Phyllanthus niruri during pregnancy and breastfeeding, so it is not recommended without medical supervision during these periods. Traditional use does not guarantee safety for pregnant or nursing women, and potential effects on the fetus or infant remain unestablished. Consult a healthcare provider before use if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

### What does the clinical research actually show about Phyllanthus niruri's effectiveness?

While Phyllanthus niruri has been used in traditional medicine for kidney and liver support, clinical evidence is limited and mixed. Most existing studies are small-scale or conducted in vitro, with few rigorous human trials demonstrating conclusive efficacy for kidney stones or liver health. More high-quality research is needed before strong health claims can be made about this ingredient.

### Are there any reported side effects or safety concerns with long-term use of Phyllanthus niruri?

Phyllanthus niruri is generally considered well-tolerated in short-term use, but long-term safety data is limited. Some users may experience mild gastrointestinal effects, and potential concerns about liver function in susceptible individuals have not been thoroughly investigated. Anyone considering long-term supplementation should consult a healthcare provider to monitor for adverse effects.

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