Morpho-constitutional analysis of urolithiasis and in vitro litholytic evaluation of select plants against diverse renal calculi variants

Abstract

Abstract Background This study explores the potential litholytic activity of medicinal plant infusions, specifically Arenaria rubra, Hordeum vulgare, and Zea mays, as well as a combination of these infusions, on various types of urinary calculi. Given the traditional use of these plants in managing kidney stones and the need for alternative treatments, this investigation aims to assess their efficacy in dissolving different types of calculi. Materials and methods Samples representing calcium oxalate monohydrate (COM), calcium oxalate dihydrate (COD), cystine (Cy), uric acid (UA), and calcium phosphate (CP) calculi were analyzed using FTIR and optical microscopy. Herbal infusions were prepared at a concentration of 14 g/l, and the dissolution capacity was evaluated by incubating the calculi samples in the infusions for eight weeks. Microscopic examination and statistical analysis were conducted to assess the efficacy of the infusions. Results and discussion Limited dissolution of COM and COD calculi was observed with the infusions, consistent with their known resistance to dissolution. Significant dissolution effects were observed for Cy, UA, and CP calculi, especially with infusions of A. rubra and H. vulgare. These findings suggest the potential of plant infusions as complementary therapeutic agents for certain types of kidney stones. Conclusion This study highlights the promising litholytic activity of medicinal plant infusions, specifically A. rubra and H. vulgare, which indicates a significant dissolution of various urinary calculi. While further research is needed to validate these findings, integrating plant infusions, extracts, or essential oils into clinical practice could offer additional treatment options for managing kidney stones and preventing recurrence.