HERBAL DRUG TREATMENT FOR LIVER DISORDERS: THERAPEUTIC POTENTIAL OF PHYLLANTHUS AMARUS

Abstract

Liver disorders constitute a major global health challenge due to their increasing prevalence and limited therapeutic options in conventional medicine. Chronic exposure to hepatotoxins, viral infections, alcohol consumption, and metabolic imbalances often leads to progressive liver damage, including hepatitis, fatty liver disease, fibrosis, and cirrhosis. In recent years, herbal drugs have gained considerable attention as alternative or complementary therapies because of their multi-targeted actions, better safety profiles, and long history of traditional use. Medicinal plants rich in bioactive phytoconstituents such as flavonoids, lignans, tannins, and polyphenols exhibit significant hepatoprotective, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antiviral activities. Among these, Phyllanthus amarus has emerged as a well-recognized hepatoprotective herb widely used in traditional systems of medicine, particularly Ayurveda, for the treatment of jaundice and other liver disorders. The therapeutic efficacy of P. amarus is attributed to its rich phytochemical composition, especially lignans such as phyllanthin and hypophyllanthin, which play a crucial role in protecting hepatocytes from oxidative stress and toxin-induced damage. Experimental studies have demonstrated its ability to normalize liver enzymes, inhibit lipid peroxidation, and enhance endogenous antioxidant defense mechanisms. Furthermore, clinical investigations suggest its potential in managing chronic hepatitis B by suppressing viral replication and improving liver function parameters.