Effect of Malva Neglecta Wallr on Ethylene Glycol Induced Kidney Stones.

PURPOSE The aim of this study was to investigate the anti-urolithiasis effects of aqueous extracts of Malva neglecta Wallr on ethylene glycol and ammonium chloride induced kidney stones in a rat model. MATERIALS AND METHODS A total number of 64 male Wistar rats were randomly divided into eight groups equally: group I (normal control), group II (disease control), groups III and IV (sham), groups V and VI (preventive groups), and groups VII and VIII (curative groups). Group I received tap drinking water, groups III and IV were given intra-peritoneal injections of 200 and 800 mg/kg aqueous extracts for 28 days. Groups II, V, VI, VII, and VIII received 1% ethylene glycol plus 0.25% ammonium chloride in drinking water for 28 days. Groups V and VI were given intra- peritoneal injections of 200 and 800 mg/kg aqueous extracts for 28 days and groups VII and VIII received intra-peritoneal injections of 200 and 800 mg/kg aqueous extracts from the 14th day of the experiment. After 28 days the kidneys were removed and observed for calcium oxalate (CaOx) deposits and tubulointerstitial changes. RESULTS The extract significantly decreased CaOx deposits and tubulointerstitial damage in the preventive groups (P < .001). In curative groups, a low dosage of extract, reduced kidney oxalate deposits and tubulointerstitial damage (P < .05). In addition a significant decrease was observed in crystal deposition and tubulointerstitial damage in high dosed group (P < .001). However, high dosed preventive and curative groups seemed to be more effective (P ≤ .001). CONCLUSION Malva neglecta Wallr has beneficial effects on preventing and treating CaOx deposition and decreasing tubulointerstitial damage on a dosage dependent manner. These effects may be due to the components presented in this plant such as saponins, flavonoids, mucilage, and phenolic compounds.