Diuretic activity of ethanolic extract of whole plant of Sphaeranthus indicus linn in albino rats

Abstract

Background: Sphaeranthus indicus Linn (S. indicus Linn) is a medicinal plant widely used in Indian traditional system of medicine for treating various ailments. The aim of the study was to evaluate diuretic activity by Lipschitz method in albino rats.Methods: Thirty albino rats were grouped into five groups and each contained six rats. Group I (control group) received 25ml/kg each of 0.9% sodium chloride orally. Group II (standard) received Hydrochlorothiazide 25 mg/kg orally dissolved in isotonic normal saline. Groups III, IV and V received ethanolic extracts of S. indicus Linn in doses 100mg/kg, 200mg/kg and 300mg/kg respectively dissolved in isotonic saline orally. The mice were put in metabolic cages and urine samples were collected for all the groups up to 24 hours after dosing. Urine was analysed for volume, urinary excretion ratio, diuretic activity, sodium and potassium composition electrolytes. Data was analysed using SPSS version 16 for windows.Results: Single dose administration of S. indicus in doses of 100, 200 and 300 mg/Kg as compared to Hydrochlorothiazide (25 mg/kg)have significantly (p<0.001, ANOVA) increased total urine output along with an increase in concentration of sodium and potassium. S. indicus Linn 300 mg/Kg produced greater diuretic activity, which is comparable to the effect of standard.Conclusions: The extract treated rats showed a dose dependent increase in urine volume. Maximum diuretic and kaliuretic activity were observed at the dose of 300 mg/kg of the extract. The present study supports and confirms the basis for folklore use of S. indicus Linn as a diuretic agent.