Bergenia Pacumbis

BotanicalBest taken away from food

What is it

Bergenia pacumbis (also called Bergenia ligulata or Saxifraga ligulata, pashanbhed) is a Himalayan herb whose rhizome is used in Ayurveda. The name pashanbhed means 'stone-breaker', reflecting traditional use for kidney and gallstones.

Evidence for 2 uses

AI-assisted evidence assessment — talk to your doctor before relying on any single supplement.

Kidney stones (traditional use)

Mixed Evidence

Small trials of combination Ayurvedic formulas containing pashanbhed report some benefit for stone management; monotherapy evidence is weak.

Anti-inflammatory effects

Mixed Evidence

Preclinical data only.

How it works

The rhizome contains tannins, phenolic glycosides (notably bergenin), gallic acid, and arbutin. Preclinical studies report mild diuretic, antilithiatic (anti-stone), antioxidant, and modest anti-inflammatory effects. The proposed mechanism for stone-related use is inhibition of calcium oxalate crystallization. Well-controlled human clinical trial evidence is limited and largely consists of small studies of combination Ayurvedic formulas.

Dosage

No established RDA. Traditional dose is 1-3 g of rhizome powder per day or equivalent extract. Standardized extracts vary.

When and how to take it

Traditionally taken with warm water 1-2 times daily, often between meals. Adequate fluid intake supports urinary applications.

1 commercial form

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Rhizome powder or extract

Traditional and modern preparations.

Bergenin absorption is moderate.

Safety

Generally well tolerated. Side effects can include mild GI upset. Tannin content may cause constipation in some users.

Who should be cautious

Avoid in pregnancy and breastfeeding due to limited data. People with chronic kidney disease or large existing stones should consult a clinician.

Interactions

Tannins may reduce absorption of medications and iron. Possible additive effect with diuretics.

Frequently asked questions

Will pashanbhed dissolve kidney stones?⌄

Evidence is limited; traditional use suggests it may help small stones pass but large or obstructive stones require medical evaluation.

Is it the same as the saxifrage species in European herbalism?⌄

Bergenia is in the saxifrage family but is a distinct genus. Names sometimes get confused in older literature.

References

Bergenia Pacumbis on Wikidata — Wikidata link

Bergenia Pacumbis on NIH DSLD (US supplement label database) — NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database link

Research on Bergenia Pacumbis (PubMed search) — PubMed link

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Evidence-based·How we grade evidence

Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This page is educational, not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Evidence grades are AI-assisted assessments — talk to your doctor before starting any new supplement, especially if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, on medications, or managing a chronic condition.