Chanca Piedra (Phyllanthus niruri) has a long history of use in traditional medicine systems, particularly in the Amazon rainforest and parts of India, where it is known as a remedy for kidney stones and various urinary tract disorders. Its traditional nickname, "stone breaker," comes from its reputed ability to help dissolve kidney stones, and by extension, it has also been used as a treatment for urinary tract infections (UTIs) and to support urinary tract health.

Scientific studies investigating the efficacy of Chanca Piedra specifically for UTIs are limited. Most research has focused on its effects on kidney stones, diuresis (increasing urine output), and its possible antimicrobial activity in vitro. Some laboratory studies have shown that extracts of Phyllanthus niruri may inhibit the growth of certain bacteria, potentially including some uropathogens, but robust clinical trials in humans with UTIs are lacking. Therefore, while its use for UTIs is grounded in traditional practice, and there is some preliminary mechanistic rationale, there is insufficient clinical evidence to strongly support its effectiveness for this specific condition.

In conclusion, Chanca Piedra's reputation for treating UTIs is primarily based on traditional use, with limited scientific validation available to date.