Stonebreaker (หญ้าใต้ใบ - Yah Tai Bai) - Phyllanthus niruri in Traditional Thai Medicine

Stonebreaker (Yah Tai Bai), or Phyllanthus urinaria, is a traditional herb used for kidney stones and liver health. Known for its detoxifying properties, it’s often brewed as tea or taken in supplements. Discover its benefits and usage in Huahin.

Stonebreaker (หญ้าใต้ใบ - Yah Tai Bai) - Phyllanthus niruri in Traditional Thai Medicine

 

Scientific Name: Phyllanthus niruri (syn. Phyllanthus amarus)

Thai Name: หญ้าใต้ใบ (Yah Tai Bai – "grass under the leaves")
Family: Phyllanthaceae

Traditional Uses in Thai Medicine

In Thailand, Yah Tai Bai has been used for centuries in traditional remedies due to its wide range of medicinal properties. Some key applications include:

  1. Liver Health & Detoxification

    • Used to support liver function and treat jaundice, hepatitis, and liver congestion.
    • Believed to help detoxify the liver and improve bile flow.
  2. Kidney & Urinary Health

    • Traditionally used to prevent and dissolve kidney stones (hence the name "Stonebreaker").
    • Acts as a diuretic, helping flush out urinary tract infections (UTIs).
  3. Anti-inflammatory & Pain Relief

    • Applied for joint pain, arthritis, and muscle inflammation.
    • Used in poultices or consumed as a decoction.
  4. Antiviral & Fever Reduction

    • Employed in remedies for dengue fever (studies suggest it may help increase platelet count).
    • Used for colds, flu, and viral infections.
  5. Digestive Aid

    • Helps relieve stomachaches, diarrhea, and dysentery.
    • Mild laxative effect in some preparations.
  6. Blood Sugar & Blood Pressure Support

    • Some traditional practitioners use it to help regulate blood sugar (potential antidiabetic properties).
    • May assist in mild hypertension management.

Preparation & Usage

  • Decoction (น้ำต้ม): Boiling the whole plant to make a bitter herbal tea.
  • Powder: Dried and ground for capsules or mixed with honey.
  • Topical Use: Crushed leaves applied to wounds or inflamed areas.

Modern Research

Studies have explored Phyllanthus niruri for:

  • Antioxidant & hepatoprotective effects (liver protection).
  • Antiurolithic activity (preventing kidney stones).
  • Antiviral properties (e.g., against hepatitis B, dengue).

Caution

  • May interact with diabetes or blood pressure medications.
  • Not recommended for pregnant women.
  • Excessive use may cause stomach upset.

Yah Tai Bai remains a valued herb in Thai traditional medicine, often combined with other herbs for enhanced therapeutic effects. Always consult a practitioner before use.

In Thai traditional medicine, the healing power of plants is central. Herbs such as turmeric, ginger, holy basil, and butterfly pea are prized for their ability to aid digestion, soothe inflammation, and enhance immunity. These versatile botanicals are brewed into teas, added to recipes, or used in natural skincare, offering gentle remedies for everyday health. 🌼✨ Unlock the secrets of Thai herbal wellness—discover more! 


Comments

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