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J Herbmed Pharmacol. 2025;14(4): 482-495.
doi: 10.34172/jhp.2025.53049
  Abstract View: 20
  PDF Download: 16

Original Article

Protective effects of ethanolic extract of Cuscuta reflexa Roxb. against ethylene glycol-induced hyperoxaluria and urolithiasis in rats

Madan L. Kaushik 1 ORCID logo, Nishant Goutam 1* ORCID logo, Mahendra Singh Ashawat 2 ORCID logo

1 Department of Pharmacology, Aadarsh Vijendra Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences (AVIPS), Shobhit University, Gangoh, Saharanpur, U.P., India
2 Department of Pharmaceutics, Laureate Institute of Pharmacy, Kathog, Distt. Kangra, H.P., India
*Corresponding Author: Nishant Goutam, Email: nishant.laxmipd@gmail.com

Abstract

Introduction: Renal urolithiasis is a prevalent global health concern due to its high recurrence rate. Cuscuta reflexa (Roxb) has been traditionally used for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. This study investigated the antiurolithiatic potential of the ethanolic extract of Cuscuta reflexa (EECR) in an ethylene glycol (EG)-induced rat model of urolithiasis.

Methods: The alcoholic extract was subjected to phytochemical screening and quantification of bioactive compounds. Urolithiasis was induced using EG and followed by EECR treatment. Biochemical analysis of urine assessed calcium, oxalate, uric acid, and citrate levels. Serum was analyzed for urea, creatinine, and uric acid. Kidney tissues were examined histologically and assessed for oxidative stress markers and antioxidant enzyme activity.

Results: EECR at 400 mg/kg significantly (P<0.001) improved urinary parameters by reducing calcium, oxalate, and uric acid levels, while increasing citrate compared to the diseased group. Serum uric acid and calcium levels were also significantly reduced after administration of EECR (P<0.05). EECR enhanced catalase activity and decreased renal tissue calcium and oxalate (P<0.05). Histopathology confirmed reduced crystal deposition and restoration of normal renal architecture.

Conclusion: EECR demonstrates promising antiurolithiatic effects by reducing crystal formation, oxidative stress, and renal dysfunction, supporting its potential therapeutic application in urolithiasis management.


Implication for health policy/practice/research/medical education:

Cuscuta reflexa Roxb. extract may offer an affordable and accessible herbal alternative for urolithiasis prevention and management in clinical practice. Findings highlight the need for further clinical research and the possible inclusion of herbal therapy in medical curricula for urinary disorders.

Please cite this paper as: Kaushik ML, Goutam N, Ashawat MS. Protective effects of ethanolic extract of Cuscuta reflexa Roxb. against ethylene glycol-induced hyperoxaluria and urolithiasis in rats. J Herbmed Pharmacol. 2025;14(4):482-495. doi: 10.34172/jhp.2025.53049.

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Submitted: 03 Apr 2025
Revision: 01 Jun 2025
Accepted: 06 Jun 2025
ePublished: 01 Oct 2025
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