Evaluation of Antiurolithiatic Potential of Methanolic Stem Extract of Spermacocce articularis L.f.: An In vitro and In vivo Approach

Context: Polygenic urolithiasis has a complicated etiology and even more varied therapeutic outcomes. Spermacoce articularis L.f. has been used historically for stone treatments in several traditional medical systems. Aim: The current study aimed to investigate the in vitro and in vivo anti-urolithiatic potential of Spermacoce articularis Stem Extract (SASE). Methods: In vitro antiurolithiatic potential on the CaOx crystallization was evaluated using nucleation and aggregation assays. In vivo, activity was assessed on renal calculi-induced Wistar rats by polyethylene glycol (0.75%) in drinking water for 14 days. SASE and cystone with two experimental doses (250 and 500 mg/kg, p.o.) were dispensed for ten days. Various biochemical parameters were assessed in the kidneys' serum, urine, and histological sections. In addition, SASE inhibited CaOx crystallization by reducing the density of crystals, triggering the breakdown of CaOx crystals, and hindering their growth. Cystone demonstrated comparable outcomes. Results: Upon treatment with SASE, urinary, serum, kidney homogenates, and antioxidants were significantly improved (p<0.05) to normal levels. The histopathology of the kidney section showed no damaged cells of SASE treated and Cystone treated compared with that of control animals. Conclusion: This research validates the traditional idea and suggests that SASE is advantageous in preventing the growth of urinary stones.