Original Articles EFFECT OF CITRULLUS LANATUS SEEDS (ETHANOLIC EXTRACT) ON NORMAL RENAL FUNCTIONS AND SERUM ELECTROLYTES OF ALBINO RATS

Abstract

Objectives:

To evaluate the effect of Citrullus lanatus seeds on normal renal functions and serum electrolytes for the improvement of kidney health in order to perform its functions in normal and stressful conditions.

Methods:

 The study was conducted at the Pharmacology Department, KEMU, Lahore and UVAS, Lahore in 2017. It was a randomized controlled trial (RCT). A sample size of 16 healthy albino wistar rats was taken. Rats were divided into two equal groups with 8 number of rats in each group and kept separately in metabolic cages. Group A was normal control group and given normal saline once a day orally. Group B was given the ethanolic extract of Citrullus lanatus seeds I/P 600 mg/kg/day. Renal function tests (blood urea nitrogen, serum, and urine creatinine clearance) and serum electrolytes (Ca++, Na+, K+, Mg++) were evaluated along with effects on urinary volume, pH and specific gravity on day zero and day 14.

Results:

Urinary output markedly increased in group B taking Citrullus lanatus seeds extract in comparison to normal control Group A with significant p-value < 0.001. Urinary pH of group B was improved significantly with p-value <0.001 in comparison to group A. Whereas, there was the insignificant difference in RFTS, serum electrolytes & urinary specific gravity of both groups at the end of the study.

Conclusion:

 The ethanolic extract of Citrullus lanatus seeds is helpful in maintaining kidney health to perform its functions properly.