2024, Vol. 12, Issue 4, Part B

Introduction: Diuretics is any substance that promote diuresis, the increased production of urine. Diuresis is an important process for excreting catabolites, maintaining the hydro electrolyte equilibrium and eliminating toxic substances. Diuretics are prescribed in various conditions like congestive heart failure, cirrhosis of liver, nephrotic syndrome, hypertension, hyperkalemia, to treat ingestion of toxic anions etc.

Methods: EEAC was evaluated for phytochemical analysis, toxicity studies and diuretic activity (Lipschitz value). The diuretic effect of the EEAC was evaluated by various parameters such as urine volume, urinary electrolytes (Na+, K+, Cl+), saluretic effect, natriuretic effect, and CAI (carbonic anhydrase inhibitory) in Wister albino rats. Different concentrations of EEAC (500 & 1000 mg/kg) and Furosemide (20 mg/kg) were administered orally to Wister albino rats and their urine output was monitored at several intervals of time (5 h and 24 h).

Results: Results of acute oral toxicity studies showed that, the extract was safe up to a dose level of 5000 mg/kg weight. Phytochemical analysis shows presence of flavonoids, alkaloids, saponins, tannins and phenolic compounds. The highest dose of EEAC significantly (p<0.05) and markedly increased the urine output. Urinary electrolyte excretion was significantly (*p<0.05) increased at 1000 mg/kg when compared to the control. EEAC also showed a significant (**p<0.01) saluretic and good natriuretic effect at 1000 mg/kg, which may be due to flavonoids, saponins and alkaloids present in the extract as a phytoconstituents. This study supports the plant’s traditional use as a diuretic.

Conclusion: The ethanolic extract of pods of Acacia concinna showed significant diuretic activity, good diuretic action, good saluretic effect, and good natriuretic action which may be because of phytoconstituent (Flavonoids, saponins, alkaloids) present in the extract. The plant's historical use as a diuretic is supported by this study. Further study is required to fractionate and isolate the molecules from extract, as well as to determine the exact mechanism of action of the molecule for diuretic activity of the molecule for diuretic activity.