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Chanca Piedra Whole Herb Extract

Also known as: Chanca piedra, Stonebreaker, Seed-under-leaf, Gale of the wind, Carry-me-seed, Phyllanthus niruri

Overview

Chanca piedra (*Phyllanthus niruri*) is an herbal supplement derived from a plant native to tropical coastal regions. It has been used traditionally to treat kidney and bladder stones, gallstones, and other conditions related to the kidneys, liver, and digestive system. The plant is available in various forms, including tablets, capsules, liquid extracts, and teas. Chanca piedra is known for its potential alkalizing, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory effects. However, research on chanca piedra is limited, with most studies being animal or test-tube based. Human studies are scarce and often lack robust methodology, indicating a need for more rigorous research to validate its traditional uses and potential benefits.

Benefits

Chanca piedra has shown potential benefits, primarily in the treatment of kidney stones. A clinical study indicated that it may reduce the size and number of kidney stones in some individuals over a 12-week period, with participants receiving 4.5 grams per day. Animal studies suggest it may reduce uric acid levels, potentially benefiting those with gout, but human evidence is lacking. Some animal and test-tube studies also indicate anti-HBV activity and potential against *Helicobacter pylori*, but these findings require confirmation through human studies. The primary observed benefits are in individuals with kidney stones smaller than 10 mm, but the clinical significance is limited by small sample sizes and a lack of long-term follow-up in available studies.

How it works

Chanca piedra is believed to work through its alkalizing properties, which may help prevent acidic kidney stones by increasing urine pH and citrate levels. It may interact with the urinary system by increasing urine flow and pH, and with the digestive system through its antimicrobial properties. While the exact molecular targets are not well-defined, it is thought to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Limited information is available on the absorption and bioavailability of chanca piedra, which represents a significant gap in current research.

Side effects

The safety profile of chanca piedra is not well-established due to the lack of comprehensive human studies. Common side effects include abdominal pain, painful urination, blood in urine, and nausea. Uncommon side effects may include high potassium levels, which can lead to muscle weakness, numbness, tingling, and severe heart problems. Potential interactions with other medications, especially those affecting potassium levels, need to be monitored. Caution is advised for individuals with kidney problems or those taking medications that affect potassium levels. Limited information is available on its use during pregnancy, in children, or in older adults, and consultation with a healthcare professional is recommended.

Dosage

The minimum effective dose of chanca piedra is not well-established, but a study used 4.5 grams per day for 12 weeks to show efficacy in reducing kidney stone size. There is no clear optimal dosage range due to the lack of comprehensive studies. The maximum safe dose is not defined, and users are advised to follow the dosage on the supplement label and consult with a healthcare professional. Chanca piedra is available in various forms such as tablets, capsules, liquid extracts, and teas, but the most effective form is not determined. Limited information is available on absorption factors.

FAQs

Is chanca piedra safe to use?

Chanca piedra may have side effects such as abdominal pain, painful urination, and high potassium levels. Consult with a healthcare professional before use, especially if taking other medications.

When should I take chanca piedra?

There is no specific guidance on the timing of administration, but it is recommended to follow the dosage on the supplement label and take it consistently.

What results can I expect from taking chanca piedra?

For kidney stones, users may expect a reduction in stone size and number over several weeks. However, results for other conditions are less clear due to limited evidence.

Is chanca piedra a cure-all?

Chanca piedra is often misconceived as a cure-all for various conditions, but the evidence is limited, and it should not be used without consulting a healthcare professional.

Research Sources

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/chanca-piedra-gallstones – This article provides an overview of chanca piedra, discussing its traditional uses and potential health benefits, particularly for gallstones and kidney stones. It highlights the need for more research to confirm these benefits and understand the plant's safety profile.
https://www.urologytimes.com/view/most-supplements-stones-not-backed-science – This article reviews the evidence for various supplements used to treat kidney stones, including chanca piedra. It concludes that many supplements lack strong scientific backing and are often based on limited or preliminary studies, emphasizing the need for more rigorous clinical trials.
https://www.webmd.com/diet/health-benefits-chanca-piedra – WebMD provides a general overview of chanca piedra, outlining its purported health benefits and traditional uses. It notes that while some studies suggest potential benefits, more research is needed to confirm these effects and ensure safety.
https://www.verywellhealth.com/chanca-piedra-4799790 – Verywell Health offers a comprehensive look at chanca piedra, covering its uses, potential benefits, and possible side effects. It emphasizes the importance of consulting with a healthcare provider before using chanca piedra, particularly for individuals with existing health conditions or those taking medications.
https://consensus.app/results/?q=Are+there+any+clinical+studies+on+the+effectiveness+of+Chanca+piedra+extract+for+respiratory+infections%3F – This search result from Consensus.app indicates a lack of clinical studies specifically focused on the effectiveness of Chanca piedra extract for respiratory infections. It highlights the limited research available for this particular application of the supplement.