Evidence supporting the use of: Phyllanthus
For the health condition: Cirrhosis of the Liver

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Phyllanthus species, particularly Phyllanthus niruri, have a long history of use in traditional medicine systems such as Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine for various liver disorders, including cirrhosis. The traditional rationale is based on the plant’s reputed ability to “cleanse” or “tonify” the liver, reduce jaundice, and counteract the effects of chronic alcohol or viral hepatitis, which are common causes of cirrhosis. Several ethnobotanical reports document the use of different Phyllanthus species for symptoms related to liver dysfunction.

From a scientific perspective, most research has focused on Phyllanthus in the context of viral hepatitis B or general hepatoprotection. In vitro and animal studies suggest hepatoprotective, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory effects, potentially by modulating liver enzymes and reducing oxidative stress. However, direct evidence for efficacy in established cirrhosis—especially in humans—is limited. Clinical trials are scarce and generally small, with most assessing surrogate liver function markers rather than outcomes specific to cirrhosis progression or reversal.

Overall, while there is traditional support for the use of Phyllanthus in liver disorders including cirrhosis, robust scientific validation for its use specifically in cirrhosis of the liver is lacking. The evidence base is thus rated low (2/5), signifying traditional use with only preliminary or indirect scientific support.

More about Phyllanthus
More about Cirrhosis of the Liver

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