Chanca Piedra

Other Names:

Stone Breaker, Quebra Pedra, Gale of the Wind, Phyllanthus niruri (latin name)

What is Chanca Piedra?

Chanca piedra is a tropical plant native to the Amazon rainforest and other tropical locations. The name chanca piedra is Spanish/Portuguese for "stone breaker," a name that reflects the historical use of this plant to effectively break down and eliminate kidney and gallstones. This special plant contains a range of bioactive compounds that offer various health benefits including lignans, flavonoids, alkaloids and vitamin C.

Health Benefits:

Kidney and Urinary Tract Health

Chanca piedra has long been believed to help break down kidney stones, with studies supporting this belief by evidencing significant reductions in stone size following chanca piedra treatment. Furthering this, scientific studies have highlighted this herbs ability to inhibit the crystallization of calcium oxalate, a common component of kidney stones.

It is also suggested that lignans and alkaloids, such as those found within chanca piedra, may help relax urinary tract muscles and help to inhibit crystal formation, providing powerful urinary tract health support.

Liver Support and Detoxification

Chanca piedra is thought to support the liver's natural cleansing processes and detoxification functions. The herb has been found to possess hepatoprotective properties, which means it may shield the liver from damage caused by toxins, oxidative stress and normalising liver enzymes.

History:

This herb has a long history of use in Ayurvedic, Amazonian, and traditional Chinese medicine to support gallbladder health, treat kidney stones and alleviate urinary tract infections. Often historical use of this herb came in the form of tea's and infusions.

Typical Use:

The medicinal properties of chanca piedra has led to this plant being used for capsule and tablet form supplements, as well as for tinctures, to support health. Beyond this, chanca piedra can also be steeped in hot water to make functional herbal tea's to which it provides a distinct earthy taste.