Phyllanthus urinaria L., Sp. Pl. 982 (1753)
Name meaning 'urine', referring to its medicinal properties.Synonyms
Diasperus urinaria (L.) Kuntze
Phyllanthus alatus Blume
Phyllanthus cantoniensis Hornemann
Phyllanthus cantoniensis Schweigg.
Phyllanthus chamaepeuce Ridley
Phyllanthus lepidocarpus Siebold & Zuccarini
Phyllanthus leprocarpus Wight
Phyllanthus nozeranii Rossignol & Haicour
Description
Reaching around 60 cm tall, has small alternate leaves resembling those of the mimosa tree, disposed in two ranges. The leaves are large at the
tip and smaller towards the petiole. When touched, the leaves fold in automatically. Flowers are greenish white, minute and appear at axiles of
the leaves, as well as the seed capsules. Numerous small green-red fruits, round and smooth, are found along the underside of the stems, which
are erect and red.
Ecology
Dry fields, roadsides, wastelands, forest margins; below 100-600 m.
Uses
Used in China to promote healthy elimination of gallstones and kidney stones, as an immune system stimulator and for those with liver disease.
Distribution
Whole (sub)tropical Asia. Currently widespread across the tropics.
Local names
China: Zhen Zhu Cao.
English: Chamberbitter, Gripeweed, Shatterstone, Stonebreaker or Leafflower.
