Diuretic activity of Ageratum conyzoides extract in rats

Abstract

The diuretic effect of the aqueous extract of the leaves of Ageratum conyzoides was evaluated in albino Wistar rats. Thirty rats in six groups were used for the study. Aqueous extract at three dose levels (200,400 and 600mg/kg), Frusemide and Acetazolamide were used as standard drugs while distilled water was used for control. Parameters studied included total urine volume after 24 hours, pH and urine concentration of sodium, potassium and chloride ions. We found LD50 to be greater than 5000mg/kg. The leaf extract exhibited significant (P<0.01) diuretic activity. At the end of 24 hours, 200, 400 and 600mg/kg of extract produced 7.60±0.68, 7.00±0.45 and 6.80±0.49ml of urine respectively. The pH of urine produced by the extract and standard drugs were all alkaline. At a dose of 600mg/kg body weight, there was significant (P<0.01) increase in concentrations of sodium, potassium and chloride ions. This could be important in the treatment of cardiovascular diseases such as hypertension. The results suggested that the leaf extract of A. conyzoides has diuretic properties similar to Acetazolamide.