Herbal Diuresis: Investigating the Efficacy of Wedelia chinensis Leaf Extracts in Rats

Abstract

Background: Herbal drugs are currently being explored for pharmacological efficacy. They are relatively safe and have fewer side effects. Objective: The objective of this research was to explore the diuretic effects of the extracts of the leaves of Wedelia chinensis (Osbeck) Merill, a member of the Asteraceae family, using an acute rat model. Methods: Dehydrated rats were administered single doses of the extracts, prepared in both aqueous and ethanol forms, at doses of 200 and 400 mg/kg orally. Additionally, rats were orally administered 25 mg/kg of frusemide and hydrochlorothiazide as standard diuretic drugs, for comparative analysis. A control group received oral administration of normal saline at a dose of 25 ml/kg. The metabolic cages were used to house the rats in pairs and urine output was measured at intervals of 5 and 24 hours. Results: Results indicated a significant increase in urine volume output with higher doses of both extracts. This diuretic effect was observed gradually within 5 hours and sustained throughout the 24-hour study period. Furthermore, the 400 mg/kg dose of aqueous extract exhibited a diuretic effect comparable to that of frusemide. Analysis of the urine samples revealed a significantly elevated Na⁺ and K⁺ with the aqueous extract of W. chinensis leaves. However, neither dose of the extracts significantly altered the pH nor specific gravity of urine during routine urinalysis. Conclusion: The findings suggest that extracts from W. chinensis leaves possess diuretic properties, supporting their traditional use in managing urinary problems. Further exploration is necessary to pinpoint the active phytoconstituents accountable for these observed effects.