Evidence supporting the use of: Chanca piedra
For the health condition: Kidney Stones

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Chanca Piedra (Phyllanthus niruri) is a plant traditionally used in South America for kidney and urinary tract health, including the treatment of kidney stones. Scientific studies have explored its potential effects, mostly in vitro and animal models, with some small clinical trials in humans.

Laboratory and animal research suggests that Chanca Piedra can inhibit the formation of calcium oxalate crystals—the primary component of most kidney stones. These studies indicate the plant may disrupt the aggregation and growth of these crystals, reducing stone size and helping prevent new stones from forming. Additionally, Chanca Piedra is believed to have diuretic and antispasmodic effects, which might help relax the urinary tract and facilitate the passage of stones.

Some small human studies have supported these findings. For example, a randomized controlled trial published in Urological Research (2010) found that supplementation with Phyllanthus niruri led to a significant reduction in stone size and promoted stone expulsion in patients with kidney stones. However, the number of high-quality, large-scale human trials is limited, and many studies have methodological weaknesses.

In summary, while Chanca Piedra has a long history of traditional use and there is preliminary scientific evidence suggesting benefit in kidney stone prevention and management, the evidence is moderate and not yet conclusive. Larger, more rigorous clinical trials are needed to confirm efficacy and safety for this indication.

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