In the quest for a healthier liver, one herb stands out with a promise of natural healing: Bhumyamalaki. Known scientifically as Phyllanthus niruri, this powerful Ayurvedic ally offers a beacon of hope for those battling hepatic disorders.
Its name, derived from Sanskrit, translates to “the small Amalaki on the ground,” indicating its low stature and its leaves’ resemblance to the Amla .
While endemic to the West Indies, Bhumyamalaki is not native to India but has become an integral part of Indian traditional medicine due to its potent medicinal properties. Whether it’s liver cirrhosis, gallstones, or inflammation, Bhumyamalaki’s anti-inflammatory prowess is a game-changer for liver health.
Botanical Description
Latin Name: Phyllanthus niruri Linn.
Family: Euphorbiaceae (Eranda kula)
Morphology:
Grows 50–70 cm tall with ascending herbaceous branches.
Smooth, light green bark.Pale green flowers, sometimes flushed with red.
Tiny, smooth capsules containing seeds.
Vernacular Names
English: Feather foil plant, Stonebreaker, Gale of wind
Hindi: Bhumi amla, Jangli amlai
Tamil: Kilanelli
Telugu: Nela Usiri
Malayalam: Keezharnelli
Pharmacological Potential of Phyllanthus niruri:
Hepatoprotective: Bhumyamalaki extracts protect the liver.
Antiviral: It shows promise in antiviral therapy, particularly against hepatitis B.
Other Properties: Antibacterial, hypolipidaemic, hypoglycaemic, analgesic, anti-inflammatory, cardioprotective, and more.
Antioxidant Property:A study assessed the antioxidant potential and showed decreased lipid peroxidation and increased antioxidant levels.
How BHUMYAMALAKI works on Hepatic disorders
Bilirubin Reduction: Bhumyamalaki contains active ingredients like phyllanthin and andrographolide, which help reduce bilirubin levels. Bilirubin is the yellow pigment that causes the characteristic yellowing of the skin and eyes in jaundice.
Liver Enzyme Normalization: These compounds also aid in normalizing levels of serum enzymes that are indicative of liver health. This helps in restoring the liver’s function and improving the pathophysiological status of the liver.
Antioxidant Activity: Bhumyamalaki has antioxidant properties that protect hepatic cells from oxidative stress, which is often associated with liver diseases.
Antiviral Properties: It also exhibits antiviral activities, particularly useful in cases of viral hepatitis, which can lead to jaundice.
Usage and Dosage
Leaf juice : 10-20ml or as directed by the physician
Powder : 3-6gms or as directed by the physician
Decoction: 10-15ml or as directed by the physician
Traditional uses
Jaundice : Bhumyamalaki paste with buttermilk or warm milk
Eye pain : paste of Bhumyamalaki with rock salt applied over eyelids reduces eye pain.
Indigestion and hyperacidity: fresh leaf juice of Bhumyamalaki helps to cure digestive disorders.
Fever, hepatomegaly and splenomegaly : juice of the whole plant is administered.
Cough and asthma: Bhumyamalaki juice can be used as Nasal drops or administered internally with sugar.
Blood purification: decoction of the whole plant is a best purifier of blood.
Common formulations containing BHUMYAMALAKI
CHYAVANAPRASAM
LIVOKOT TABLET
CHYAVANULES
RASNA TAMALAKYADI KASHAYAM and many more
Side effects
Bhumyamalaki, known scientifically as Phyllanthus niruri, is generally considered safe when used in normal dosages. However, like any herb, it may cause side effects in some individuals or when used inappropriately. Here are some potential side effects to be aware of:
Increase in Vata Dosha: Being a coolant, Bhumyamalaki can increase Vata Dosha if used in very high doses.
Laxative Action: It has a laxative effect, so people with diarrhea or dysentery should use it cautiously.
Diarrhea and Stomach Upsets: Large doses can cause diarrhea and stomach upsets.
Alter blood glucose levels: very high doses of bhumi amla can lead to the surplus elimination of fluids from the body and also alter blood sugar levels.
Increased risk of bleeding
Reduced level of blood pressure : people with a low level of blood pressure needs to be cautious while using Bhumyamalaki in larger doses.
It’s important to use Bhumyamalaki under the guidance of a healthcare professional, especially if you have any underlying health conditions or are taking other medications. Pregnant and nursing mothers, as well as children, should avoid using Bhumyamalaki due to insufficient evidence of its safety in these populations.
Let us discover the remarkable benefits of Bhumyamalaki, the ayurvedic powerhouse, by incorporating this magical herb into our daily regimen and join the ranks of those who have chosen the path of natural healing.
Take the first step towards a revitalized liver. Your liver deserves the best; give it the protection of Bhumyamalaki.This herb isn’t just a treatment; it’s a guardian of your liver’s well-being.