Nephroprotective Role of Boerhavia diffusa in Renal Disorders: A Review

Abstract

The herb Boerhavia diffusa (BD) is well-known in the Indian medicinal system. Punarnava is its vernacular name. BD is one of the chief ingredients in ayurvedic formulations used for urinary diseases. In the realm of phytochemistry, the plant has risen to prominence due to its diverse biological activities. Here, we reviewed the scientific literature available on administration of BD for acute kidney injury, chronic kidney disease, polycystic kidney disease, renal calculi, urinary tract infection, and COVID-19 related kidney disease and we also explored its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. The nephroprotective effect of BD has been clearly demonstrated in in vitro, in vivo, and in clinical studies. The in vivo studies have yielded a plethora of data. The most commonly employed extracts were aqueous, hydroalcoholic, ethanolic, and methanolic extracts. Clinical studies have employed polyherbal combinations containing BD extract. Irrespective of the type of BD extract, all studies showed reduction in the key markers of kidney diseases, namely urea, creatinine, BUN, and proteins. It has antifibrotic property reducing the formation of extracelluar collagen deposition in the renal tubules, which is not much explored. The review highlights the importance of further research required in establishing the molecular mechanisms underlying the action of BD. With in-depth molecular research and clinical trials, BD could be developed into a novel therapeutic agent for the successful treatment of renal disorders especially the chronic kidney disease.