Phytochemical Screening and Diuretic Activity of Allium Sativum Steroidal and Triterpenoid Saponin Fraction

Allium sativum L. (Liliacea) is a perennial bulb with a tall, erect flowering stem. The bulb of the plant has been used in many parts of the world as a stimulant, carminative, antiseptic, expectorant, anthelmintic and diuretic. This study has been planned to assess the diuretic activity of fresh garlic bulb extract targeting the steroidal and triterpenoidal saponin content. The rats were randomly divided into 4 groups of 5 animal each as vehicle control (2 % tragacanth suspension), standard drug frusemide (20 mg/kg, p.o), and nbutanol extract (10 mg/kg and 20 mg/kg, p.o) treated. Urine was collected in a graduated cylinder and its volume was measured for next 5 hr. Na, K and Cl concentrations were measured. Phytochemical analysis of A. sativum nbutanol fraction showed presence of steroids, triterpenoidal saponins and carbohydrates. At 20 mg/kg dose onset of diuresis and total volume of urine formed was significantly (P<0.01-0.05) higher. Fifth hour urine volume at 20 mg/kg dose was 9.3 ml as compared to 5.5 ml of control. Extract at 20 mg/kg dose produced 24.57% increase in Na excretion against 132.65% increase by frusemide when compared to control signifying natriuretic and aquaretic response. The study confirmed the ethnopharmacological and Ayurvedic use of A. sativum as a diuretic agent. INTRODUCTION: The medicinal plants have enormous commercial potential throughout the globe. In worldwide herbal boom, it is estimated that high quality phytomedicinals will provide safe and effective medication. In India, Ayurveda, Siddha, Unani etc. consist of large number of herbal remedies, being used from ancient times and having their potential therapeutic claims with quality control specifications. These medications, however, suffer from lack of standardization parameters and documentation based on scientific screening procedures. The evaluation of these herbal drugs is mostly based on phytochemical, pharmacological and allied approaches including various instrumental techniques. With the emerging interest in the world to adopt and study the traditional system and to exploit their potentials based on different healthcare systems, the evaluation of the rich heritage of the traditional medicine is essential . Correspondence to Author: