Abstract

A REVIEW ON MEDICINAL PLANTS USED AS DIURETICS FROM KARNATAKA STATE

Sruthi S., Subham Majumder, Surbhi Kumari, Thota Sai Kavya and Padmaa M. Paarakh*

ABSTRACT

Medicinal herbs are the significant source for treatment of number of diseases, one such is Diuretics. Mono and poly-herbal preparations have been used as diuretics. According to estimate, more than 650 mono and poly-herbal preparations in the form of decoction, tincture, tablets and capsules are from more than 75 plants that are in clinical use. There exist a large number of studies which supports the diuretic effects of traditional herbal medicines. Herbal medicine have been the most commonly prescribed medications for diuretics. They inhibit electrolyte reabsorption from the lumen of the nephron, increasing osmolarity, enhancing water and electrolyte excretion. It is important to note that there is a delicate balance between dietary sodium intake and sodium loss. If the balance is compromised and there is a greater intake of sodium into the body, but not enough sodium removal, complications of fluid overload occur, such as oedema, pulmonary oedema or high blood pressure. When there is greater removal of sodium, but not enough sodium intake, complications of fluid depletion take place, such as renal failure or reduced output of blood from the heart. The ability to induce a negative fluid balance has made diuretics useful in the treatment of a variety of conditions, particularly in hypertension and oedematous states. This review gives information about few herbal plants which are used traditionally in Karnataka as diuretics. There are a large number of studies which supports the diuretic effects of traditional herbal medicines which is presented along with chemical constituents and other pharmacological action of the plants.

Keywords: Medicinal plants, Diuretics, Karnataka, review.