Chanca Piedra for Kidney Stones
Also known as Phyllanthus niruri, Chanca Piedra is a tropical plant that is widespread especially in the coastal regions. The herb belongs to the Phyllanthaceae in the genus Phyllanthus. Chanca Piedra grows to a height of between 50 and 70cm. The herb bears a smooth bark that is light green in color and has ascending herbaceous branches. Its many pale-green colors are flushed with red. The Chanca Piedra bears fruits that are small and contain seeds.
Over the years, Chanca Piedra has grown quite popular with populations around the world given its numerous medicinal uses. Studies indicate that the herb is ideal for the treatment of conditions such as vaginal and urethral discharge, digestive tract disorders and control of diabetes. Treatment of kidney stones is among the most popular uses of the herb.
Kidney Stones
Statistics show that quite a large percentage of the world population suffers from kidney stones and gallstone issues. There are several causes of kidney stones and the symptoms can vary from mild to life threatening. The condition is characterized by hard deposits in the kidneys that are passed out during urination. Although passing the stones can be quite painful, there is usually no permanent damage. If however left untreated for a long time, the results of kidney stones can be so severe that the patient might end up in an emergency room. Chanca Piedra has for the last several years been used as a natural remedy for kidney stones.
Although the herb possesses several medicinal benefits, one of the primary medicinal uses is in the treatment of kidney stones and gallstones. Its name, “Chanca Piedra” as it is called in Peru is derived from its action against kidney stones and gallstones. The name translates to stone breaker.
The herb helps in alleviating kidney stones in a number of ways. It not only aids in the treatment of the condition but also prevents it. When used, the herb helps by inhibiting the formation of the stones. This is essential in keeping the condition from worsening. The herb has also been studied to significantly limit the aggregation of crystals.
The herb is also popular for the fact that it reduces the symptoms of kidney stones. By modifying the composition and the structure of the stone, it not only makes it easy to expel them but also reduces the pain involved. It also relaxes the ureter and creates a calming effect. Another way the herb helps with kidney stones is minimizing the amount calcium, a substance that promotes crystallization of urine. It also gets rid of fragments that are left after a lithotripsy.
How to use Chanca Piedra for Kidney Stones
As a remedy for kidney stones, the herb is taken orally. How it is taken usually depends on the form in which it is available to the user. It can be taken either as a tea or as tincture. It can also be taken as a tablet or extract capsules. The action of the herb against kidney and gallstones can be observed as soon as 2 weeks after the initial week. To completely reverse the condition however, a user may need to use it for approximately 3 months.
