Chanca Piedra
"Stone breaker" in Spanish, and it earns the name. The Amazon herb with research-backed effects on kidney stones, gallstones, and liver function.
Quick Facts
Latin Name
Phyllanthus niruri (also P. amarus, P. urinaria)
Common Names
Stone breaker, quebra pedra, seed-under-leaf
Primary Use
Kidney stones, gallstones, liver protection
Form
Tea, tincture, capsule, powder
What It Is
Chanca piedra is a small herb native to the Amazon rainforest that has been used by indigenous peoples for centuries for kidney and liver problems. The name literally means "stone breaker", referring to its traditional use for kidney stones.
Modern research has validated much of the traditional use. It's now one of the most studied herbs for kidney stone prevention, with clinical trials showing real effects on stone formation and passage.
How It Works
- →Stone inhibition: Interferes with calcium oxalate crystal formation, prevents stones from forming
- →Smooth muscle relaxation: Relaxes ureter and bladder, making stone passage easier
- →Hepatoprotective: Research shows liver-protective effects comparable to milk thistle
- →Antiviral: Shows activity against hepatitis B and other viruses in studies
Traditional Use
Amazon indigenous peoples use chanca piedra for kidney stones, gallstones, urinary infections, hepatitis, and liver problems. It's one of the most important medicinal plants in South American traditional medicine.
In Ayurveda (where it's called Bhumyamalaki), it's used for liver disorders, jaundice, and diabetes. The fact that it appears in both Amazonian and Indian traditions suggests its effects are robust and consistent.
When to Use It
Kidney stone prevention
For those with history of calcium oxalate stones, take ongoing for prevention
Active kidney stones
May help small stones pass more easily, combine with hydration
Gallbladder support
Traditional use for gallstones, may help with sludge and small stones
Liver protection
During hepatic stress or as part of liver protocols
Dosing Protocol
Tea
1-2 tsp dried herb steeped 10-15 min, 2-3 cups daily
Capsules
500-1000mg, 2-3x daily
Tincture (1:5)
30-60 drops, 3x daily
For active stones, higher doses may be used short-term. For prevention, lower doses taken consistently work best.
Contraindications
- • Pregnancy/breastfeeding: Not enough safety data, avoid
- • Diabetes medications: May enhance blood sugar lowering effect
- • Blood thinners: May have antiplatelet effects
- • Diuretics: May enhance effects, monitor electrolytes