Phyllanthus amarus Schumach. & Thonn.

 

Family: Euphorbiaceae

Synonym: Diasperus nanus (Hook.f.) Kuntze, Phyllanthus nanus Hook.f.

Vernacular name: Keezhanelli, Keezharnelli, Kiruthaanelli, Kizhukanelli

Habit: Herb

Habitat: Degraded moist deciduous forests and forest plantations, also in the plains

Distribution: Tropics

Flowering and Fruiting: Throughout the year

Key identification features:

Uses: Good tonic, diuretic and febrifuge, Aqueous extracts show potent anticarcinogenic activity against development of different tumour types.