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    Yemama Apothecary

    Bencao Gangmu Reference Library

    Heat-Clearing, Hepatoprotective & Antiviral (清热解毒 / 平肝明目利湿)

    叶下珠 / 珍珠草 — Phyllanthus niruri L. (and Phyllanthus urinaria L.)

    Pinyin: Yèxiàzhū / Zhēnzhūcǎo · Malay: Dukung Anak / Meniran · Family: Phyllanthaceae / Euphorbiaceae (叶下珠科 / 大戟科)

    Botanical Illustration

    Energetics

    Cool (凉)

    Flavor

    Bitter, slightly sweet, astringent (苦、微甘、涩)

    Meridians

    Liver (肝), Gallbladder (胆), Lung (肺)

    Traditional Edict

    Clears toxic heat, soothes the Liver, brightens eyes, and drains dampness to expel stones. Classical Nanyang remedy for jaundice, hepatitis, and childhood malnutrition.

    Cautions & Contraindications

    • High doses may induce mild loose stools. Contraindicated in Spleen-Stomach deficiency cold without damp-heat.

    Clinical Applications

    • Chronic Hepatitis B viral suppression, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), nephrolithiasis, and hyperuricemia.

    Quality Markers

    Phyllanthin & Hypophyllanthin >= 0.60% (HPLC MHM / ChP)

    Mechanism & Phytochemistry

    1. Lignans (phyllanthin, hypophyllanthin, corilagin) inhibit HBV DNA polymerase and downregulate HBsAg and HBeAg secretion. 2. Protects hepatocytes against oxidative apoptosis via Nrf2 upregulation. 3. Inhibits calcium oxalate crystal aggregation.

    Preparation & Dosage

    Dried whole plant decocted 20-30 minutes: 15-30 g daily (up to 60 g in acute viral hepatitis).

    Appended Prescriptions

    • 1. Nanyang Anti-Hepatitis Formula with Abrus cantoniensis (Ji Gu Cao) and Artemisia capillaris (Yin Chen). 2. Stone-Dissolving Tea with Orthosiphon stamineus (Misai Kucing).

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    Yemama Apothecary · Petaling Jaya, Malaysia · For educational and clinical reference only