In-vivo evaluation of anti-urolithiatic activity of methanolic extract of Physalis minima L. leaves against ethylene glycol induced urolithiasis in Wistar Albino rats

Abstract

Background: Urolithiasis, the formation of kidney stones due to crystallized urinary minerals, poses significant therapeutic challenges with conventional treatments often limited by adverse effects. Natural alternatives are increasingly sought, and Physalis minima L., known for its diuretic and anti-inflammatory properties, has shown promising phytochemical profiles that may counteract stone formation.

Methods: Male Wistar albino rats (n=30) were divided into five groups: a normal control, a lithiatic control (administered 0.75% v/v ethylene glycol with 1% w/v ammonium chloride for initial lithiasis acceleration), a standard group treated with Cystone (750 mg/kg), and two test groups receiving the methanolic extract of Physalis minima L. leaves (MEPM) at doses of 100 mg/kg and 200 mg/kg from days 15 to 28. Urine samples were analyzed for calcium, phosphate, and uric acid, while serum levels of blood urea nitrogen (BUN), creatinine, and uric acid were measured. Kidney tissues were subjected to histopathological examination to assess structural changes.

Results: Ethylene glycol administration significantly elevated urinary and serum stone-promoting markers. Treatment with MEPM, especially at 200 mg/kg, significantly reduced these biochemical parameters and improved kidney histology, displaying effects comparable to the standard Cystone treatment.

Conclusions: The methanolic extract of Physalis minima L. leaves exhibits potent, dose-dependent antiurolithiatic activity by lowering key stone promoters and restoring renal function. These findings highlight its potential as a natural therapeutic alternative for urolithiasis management, warranting further pharmacodynamic studies.