A comparative study of antilithiatic effect of three traditional plants and their antioxidant activity

Abstract

Achyranthus aspera Linn (AA), Moringa oleifea Lam (MO) and Scopario dulcis Linn (SD) are the traditional plants which have many applications in pharmaceuticals, alternative medicines and natural therapies. AA the whole plant is characterized by its uterine stimulant and many more activities.SD is traditionally used in the treatment of diabeties, jaundice and stomachache etc.MO is an important medicinal herb and is considered as miracle tree. All parts of the plant are useful for human health. In the indigenous system of medicine, AA, MO and SD is reported to be useful in the treatment of urinary disorders. In the present study, an effort has been made to establish the scientific validity for the antiurolithiatic property of aqueous and alcoholic extract of leaves of AA, MO and SD using ethylene glycol induced hyperoxaluria model in rats. The acute oral toxicity study was carried out as per the guidelines set by (OECD). The LD50 and ED50 of the drugs were calculated. Albino rats were selected and given 1% ethylene glycol in drinking water to induce hyperoxaluria. In six groups the oral administration of the aqueous and alcoholic extract of AA, MO and SD, the others are standard and control. After 14^th and 28^th day of treatment urine was collected and estimated for ionic concentrations. After 28 days the histopathological study has been done. In vivo antioxidant activity parameters such as Lipid per oxidation, Superoxide dismutase, Glutathione, Catalase were also monitored. It shows decrease in MDA and increase in GSH, CAT, and SOD. The drug treated group animals were resulted in significant reduction in the bladder stones compared to the control and standard cystone treated group and enzyme activity for antioxidant property and more in methanolic extract. Among these Scoparia dulcis is having better effect than the others. The action of herbal drugs exerts their antilithogenic properties by altering the ionic composition of urine viz.; decreasing the calcium and oxalate ion concentration or increasing magnesium and citrate excretion. The extracts of AA, MO and SD at a dose of 200mg/kg produced significant reduction in MDA and increased GSH and antioxidant enzyme likes SOD and CAT compared to standard group cystone. When comparing these three plants the Scoparia dulcis is having better activity than the others.