Phytochemical Screening and Diuretic Activity of the Aqueous and Ethanolic Extract of Clitoria ternatea Flowers

Abstract

Clitoria ternatea, commonly known as butterfly pea, is a perennial herbaceous plant from the Fabaceae family. It has recently attracted a lot of interest as it has potential applications both in modern medicine and agriculture, and as a source of natural food colorants and antioxidants.Additionally, Clitoria ternateahas been widely used in traditional medicine, particularly as a supplement to enhance cognitive functions and alleviate symptoms of numerous ailments including fever, inflammation, pain, and diabetes.The present study was undertaken to investigate diuretic effect of aqueous and ethanolextracts of the dried flowers of Clitoria ternatea in normal rats.Qualitative analysis of various phytochemical constituents was determined by the well-known test protocol available in the literature.Aqueous and ethanol extracts of Clitoria ternateaflowers were administered to experimental ratsorally at doses of 500 mg/kg p.o. Furosemide (5 mg/kg) was used as positive control instudy. The diuretic effect of the extracts was evaluated by measuring urine volume and sodium content.Phytochemical screening of the extract showed the presence some common compounds like alkaloids, resins, steroids, tannins, saponins, and glycoside.Urine volume was significantly increased by aqueous and ethanol extracts incomparison to control group. While the excretion of sodium was also increased by both extracts.We can conclude that aqueous and ethanol extracts of Clitoria ternateaproduced notablediuretic effect which appeared to be comparable to that produced by the reference diuretic Furosemide. Thepresent study provides a quantitative basis for explaining the folkloric use of Clitoria ternateaas a diuretic agent.
 Keywords: Clitoria ternatea, Fabaceae, Phytochemical constituents, Diuretic effect, Furosemide