Evaluation of In-Vitro Anti-Urolithiatic Activity of A Combination of Horsegram and Tamarind Seeds

Abstract

Urolithiasis is a prevalent urinary disorder characterized by the formation of crystalline stones, primarily composed of calcium oxalate. The present study aims to evaluate the in vitro anti-urolithiatic activity of a combination of Tamarindus indica Linn. and Macrotyloma uniflorum seed extracts. Both seeds have a long history of traditional use in the management of kidney stones.

The powdered seeds were extracted using suitable aqueous/ethanolic solvent systems and evaluated using in vitro calcium oxalate nucleation, crystal growth inhibition, and aggregation assays. The inhibitory activity of the combined extract was compared with a standard anti-urolithiatic drug.

Results revealed a dose-dependent inhibition of calcium oxalate crystal formation. The combination extract showed significant reduction in nucleation, growth, and aggregation of calcium oxalate crystals, indicating a synergistic effect of phytoconstituents present in both seeds. The findings support the traditional use of these plant seeds and suggest their potential role in the prevention and management of urolithiasis.