Bhumyamalaki (Phyllanthus Amarus Schum. & Thonn.) in Liver Disorders: An Integrative Review of Ayurvedic and Contemporary Evidence

Abstract

Bhumyamalaki (Phyllanthus amarus Schum. & Thonn.) is an important medicinal plant described in Ayurveda for the management of Kamala, Yakrit Vikara, and other hepatobiliary disorders. Contemporary research has increasingly explored its hepatoprotective potential. Objective: To review the Ayurvedic properties, phytochemistry, and hepatoprotective evidence of Bhumyamalaki and related Phyllanthus species in liver disorders. Materials and Methods: A narrative review was conducted using classical Ayurvedic texts and electronic databases including PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar, and ScienceDirect. Studies evaluating phytochemistry, pharmacological activities, hepatoprotective effects, antiviral activity, and clinical outcomes of Phyllanthus species were reviewed. Results: Bhumyamalaki is characterized by Tikta-Kashaya Rasa, Sheeta Virya, and Kapha-Pittashamaka properties. Major phytoconstituents include phyllanthin, hypophyllanthin, geraniin, corilagin, flavonoids, tannins, and polyphenols. Experimental studies demonstrate hepatoprotective activity across diverse models of liver injury, while limited clinical studies suggest beneficial effects in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Conclusion: The available evidence supports the classical Ayurvedic use of Bhumyamalaki in liver disorders and highlights its potential as a natural hepatoprotective agent. Further phytochemical standardization and well-designed clinical trials are required to establish its therapeutic efficacy in evidence-based hepatology.