Background
Urolithiasis is a prevalent urological disorder with high recurrence rates and significant morbidity. Conventional management strategies, including surgical and pharmacological interventions, are often associated with cost, invasiveness, and adverse effects. This has led to increasing interest in plant-based therapeutics. Phyllanthus niruri, traditionally used across Ayurveda, Traditional Chinese Medicine, and ethnomedicine, has gained attention for its anti-urolithic and systemic therapeutic potential.
Objective
To evaluate the ethnomedicinal relevance, phytochemical composition, pharmacological mechanisms, and clinical evidence supporting Phyllanthus niruri in kidney stone management, along with its broader implications in holistic health and integrative medicine.
Method
A comprehensive narrative review was conducted, synthesizing data from traditional medical literature, phytochemical analyses, in vitro and in vivo experimental studies, and available clinical trials. The review focuses on mechanisms of action, therapeutic efficacy, safety profile, and emerging clinical applications.
Result
Phyllanthus niruri demonstrates multifactorial anti-urolithic activity, including inhibition of calcium oxalate crystallization, promotion of diuresis, litholytic effects, and reduction of renal inflammation. Clinical studies indicate significant reduction in stone recurrence and improvement in urinary biochemical parameters. Additionally, the plant exhibits hepatoprotective, antiviral, antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and cardioprotective effects. Its safety profile is favorable, with minimal adverse effects reported at therapeutic doses.
Conclusion
Phyllanthus niruri represents a promising, evidence-supported botanical agent for the management of urolithiasis, offering a multi-targeted and cost-effective alternative or adjunct to conventional therapies. Despite encouraging preclinical and clinical findings, further large-scale, standardized clinical trials are required to establish optimal dosing, long-term safety, and integration into clinical guidelines. Its translational potential highlights the value of bridging traditional medicine with modern pharmacological research.
