Phyllanthus urinaria, a medicinal plant commonly used in traditional Asian medicine, has been investigated for its potential effects on liver health, including the management of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Several preclinical studies (in vitro and animal models) have demonstrated that extracts of Phyllanthus urinaria exhibit hepatoprotective, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory activities. These properties are believed to help reduce hepatic lipid accumulation and oxidative stress, which are central features of fatty liver disease. For example, rodent studies have shown that treatment with P. urinaria extract can decrease liver enzymes, reduce steatosis, and improve lipid profiles.

However, scientific validation in humans is limited. There are few, if any, high-quality randomized controlled trials evaluating the efficacy and safety of Phyllanthus urinaria in patients with fatty liver disease. Most evidence comes from laboratory research and traditional usage rather than robust clinical trials. The mechanisms proposed include modulation of lipid metabolism, inhibition of pro-inflammatory cytokines, and enhancement of antioxidant defenses, but these findings have not yet been consistently translated into clinical practice.

In summary, while there is some scientific basis for the use of Phyllanthus urinaria in supporting liver health and potentially treating fatty liver disease, the evidence is preliminary and largely derived from non-human studies. Clinical evidence remains insufficient, so its use for this purpose is not well-established.