Understanding the Nutritional Value of Stone Breaker (Phyllanthus Niruri)

January 1, 2026 •

3 min read

According to scientific analysis, the leaves of stone breaker, or Phyllanthus niruri, contain significant amounts of calcium, magnesium, and iron. This small tropical plant, also known as chanca piedra, has a long history in traditional medicine, but its specific nutrient profile reveals that its primary value lies not in daily nutrient intake but in its rich array of therapeutic phytochemicals.

Quick Summary

Stone breaker, known as chanca piedra, contains a moderate amount of macronutrients like carbohydrates and protein, along with key minerals including potassium and magnesium. The plant's true value, however, comes from its bioactive compounds, such as lignans and flavonoids, rather than from meeting significant daily dietary requirements.

Key Points

Moderate Macronutrient Content: Stone breaker is not a primary source of daily carbohydrates, protein, or fats, containing these nutrients in moderate amounts relative to staple foods.
Source of Essential Minerals: The herb contains vital minerals like calcium, magnesium, and potassium, though not in quantities large enough to fulfill significant daily requirements through casual consumption.
Rich in Therapeutic Phytochemicals: Its main value comes from bioactive compounds such as lignans (phyllanthin) and flavonoids (quercetin), which are responsible for its medicinal properties.
Contains Anti-Nutritive Factors: Like many plants, it includes anti-nutrients like oxalates and phytates, which can interfere with mineral absorption but are generally at acceptable levels for supplementary use.
Best Consumed as a Supplement: Due to its profile, stone breaker is best utilized as a tea, capsule, or extract to deliver concentrated bioactive compounds, rather than as a significant part of the diet.
Supports Liver and Kidney Health: The potent phytochemicals contribute to its traditional use in supporting liver and kidney function, as indicated by both traditional practice and some studies.

A Closer Look at the Proximate Composition of Stone Breaker

Research into the nutritional profile of Phyllanthus niruri reveals a breakdown of its core components, highlighting that it is not a major source of macro-nutrients for a daily diet but rather a potent source of complex plant compounds. Studies indicate that per 100g dry weight, stone breaker contains roughly 64.31% carbohydrates, 17.10% crude fibre, 9.52% crude protein, and 3.15% crude lipid (fat), with a calorific value of around 279.18 kcal. This composition suggests it's primarily a carbohydrate and fiber source with modest protein, positioning it as a herbal supplement rather than a dietary staple.

Essential Minerals and Vitamins in Stone Breaker

While not a significant source for fulfilling daily recommended dietary allowances, stone breaker contains a profile of essential minerals and vitamins that contribute to its overall therapeutic potential.

Mineral Content Breakdown

Analyses have identified several minerals in stone breaker leaves, including calcium, magnesium, potassium, phosphorus, iron, manganese, and zinc. For example, one study found around 25.58 mg of calcium and 25.85 mg of magnesium per 100g. While manganese content might contribute notably to daily needs, other minerals are present in smaller quantities relative to overall dietary requirements.

Vitamin Composition

Research also highlights the presence of various vitamins in the leaves. These include Vitamin A, Vitamin B6, Vitamin D, Vitamin E, and Vitamin K. Vitamin E, known for its antioxidant properties, is present at about 57.18 mg/100g, potentially contributing to the herb's health effects. However, supplements or extracts are more common ways to benefit from these compounds than consuming the fresh plant.

The Power of Bioactive Phytochemicals

The most significant components of stone breaker are its bioactive phytochemicals, which are responsible for many of its medicinal properties. Key phytochemicals include lignans like phyllanthin and hypophyllanthin, known for liver-protective effects. Flavonoids such as quercetin and rutin provide anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits. Tannins can have anti-inflammatory effects but may also be anti-nutritive in large amounts. Alkaloids may contribute to antiviral activities, and phenolic acids offer antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

Comparison Table: Nutritional Value in Focus

To illustrate stone breaker's nutritional standing, here's a comparison of its mineral content (per 100g dry weight) with raw spinach:


Nutrient (per 100g)	Stone Breaker (Dried)	Spinach (Raw)	Relevance
Carbohydrates	64.31 g	3.6 g	Stone breaker has a higher concentration of carbohydrates in its dried form.
Protein	9.52 g	2.9 g	The dried herb offers a higher percentage of crude protein than raw spinach.
Calcium	~25.58 mg	~99 mg	Spinach is a more significant dietary source of calcium.
Magnesium	~25.85 mg	~79 mg	Spinach provides notably more magnesium per 100g.
Iron	~3.1 mg	~2.7 mg	Iron content is comparable to, or slightly higher than, raw spinach.

This comparison shows that stone breaker's contribution to a standard diet is limited compared to conventional foods like spinach, emphasizing that its value lies in bioactive compounds rather than bulk nutrients.

Anti-Nutritive Components and Their Implications

Stone breaker contains anti-nutritive factors like oxalates and phytates, which can hinder mineral absorption. Tannins can also interfere with protein utilization. However, one study noted that relatively low phytate content might mean it doesn't significantly impact the bioavailability of minerals like calcium and zinc.

How to Harness Stone Breaker's Benefits

Given its potent phytochemical content and modest nutritional value, utilizing stone breaker through standardized supplements, teas, or extracts is recommended over using it as a food. This method ensures consistent dosing of active compounds and minimizes anti-nutritive factor intake. Consulting a healthcare professional before use is advisable, especially since supplements are not FDA-regulated.

Conclusion: A Therapeutic Herb, Not a Nutritious Food

While stone breaker (Phyllanthus niruri) has a measurable nutritional profile of macronutrients, vitamins, and minerals, its primary value is not as a dietary food source. Its nutritional contribution is modest compared to everyday foods. The plant's true potency lies in its rich concentration of bioactive phytochemicals, such as lignans, flavonoids, and alkaloids, which provide its therapeutic effects, including potential liver and kidney support. The presence of anti-nutritive factors further supports its use as a supplement under guidance. For detailed information on chemical constituents, the Journal of Advances in Biology & Biotechnology is a resource.

Frequently Asked Questions

While stone breaker contains several vitamins, such as Vitamin A, B6, D, E, and K, it is not considered a high-level source compared to other food options. It is used more for its potent phytochemicals than for its vitamin content.

No, stone breaker should not be eaten like a vegetable. Its medicinal value comes from concentrated bioactive compounds, and it contains anti-nutritive factors. It is more commonly consumed as a tea, tincture, or capsule.

The bioavailability of minerals in stone breaker can be affected by the presence of anti-nutritive compounds like oxalates and phytates. However, one study suggested that the phytate content is relatively low and may not significantly hinder absorption.

People do not take stone breaker primarily for its nutritional value, but rather for its therapeutic properties derived from its rich phytochemical composition. It's often used to support kidney, liver, and urinary tract health.

At roughly 9.52% crude protein in its dried form, stone breaker has a higher protein content than some leafy vegetables but is still not a substantial source of daily protein compared to other protein-rich plants.

When taken in moderate, supplementary doses, stone breaker is not expected to cause mineral deficiencies. However, due to its anti-nutritive compounds, it is best not to rely on it as a significant source of minerals.

Yes, there can be a difference. Tea involves an infusion of the whole plant, while capsules often contain concentrated extracts. Capsules may provide a more standardized and potent dose of the bioactive compounds, whereas tea provides a traditional, slower-dosing method.