DOI: 10.36347/sjams.2013.v01i03.012

Pages: 209-214

Abstract: In the most ancient Indian traditional system of medicines (Ayurveda) diuretics are called as Muttra – Virechanya dravya. These agents are widely explored in Indian ancient system of medicines. Diuretics basically causes increase in the rate of urine flow thus being used to treat various disorders like diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular disorders, anxiety, hypertension, liver degeneration diseases. The main aim of this review article is to highlight the work on diuretics of plant origin and to identify which extract promotes diuresis, which has been assessed in terms of urine excreted and urinary sodium, potassium, and chloride excretion. In most of the study Na+ and K+ estimation was done by the Flame photometer and Cl_ estimation was done by argenometric titration method. This study is to identify the research needed area. In this article we have identified number of genus and species recently reported as diuretic effects, some of them are Xanthium Strumarium L., Samanea Saman, Morinda Citrifolia, Holarrhena antidysenterica, Euphorbia thymifolia, Bryophylum Calycinum, Achyranthes aspera. However, there the number of studies is limited and we recommend that further studies be conducted to confirm reported effects. Such evidence is needed to provide scientific credence to the folklore use of traditional medicines and even be helpful in the development of future medicines, treatments and treatment guidelines.