| Botanical Name |
Phyllanthus amarus |
| Common Name |
Bhumi Amlaki |
| Family |
Euphorbiaceae |
| Part-Used |
Whole Plant |
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Description:
The plant grows abundantly in India up to 700 m altitude during rainy season.
Active Compounds:
Phyllanthus primarily contains lignans (e.g., phyllanthine and hypophyllanthine), alkaloids, and bioflavonoids (e.g., quercetin). While it remains unknown as to which of these ingredients has an anti-viral effect, research shows that this herb acts primarily on the liver. This action in the liver confirms its historical use as a remedy for jaundice.
Medicinal Properties:
The drug exhibits antiviral actions on hepatitis B in Numan subject and in vitro. The drug also has diuretic and hypotensive effect in human. The plant also has antibacterial and antifungal activities.
Uses:
Whole plant is useful for the treatment of dropsy, gonorrhea, menorrhagia and other urinary affections of a similar type. Phyllanthus blocks DNA polymerase, the enzyme needed for the hepatitis B virus to reproduce. Fifty-nine percent of those infected with chronic viral hepatitis B lost one of the major blood markers of HBV infection (e.g., hepatitis B surface antigen) after using phyllanthus for thirty days. In Jaundice, the decoction of the plant is used. A poultice of the leaves mixed with salt cures itch and other skin affections. The herb also treats diabetes, dyspepsia, ulcers, sores, swellings, ophthalmia, and chronic dysentery . 
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