Pradeep Singh
1 
, Mohammad Sabir Alam
2 , Muhammad Arif
1* , Shazia Usmani
1 , Mohammad Meraj Anjum
3 , Vijay Bhalla
2 , Arun Garg
4 1 Faculty of Pharmacy, Integral University, Kursi Road, Lucknow-226026, India
2 SGT College of Pharmacy, SGT University, Gurgaon-Badli Road Chandu, Budhera, Gurugram, Haryana 122505 India
3 Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar University, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh 226025 India
4 School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, MVN University, NH-2, Delhi-Agra Highway (NCR), Faridabad, Haryana- 121105 India
Abstract
Nephrolithiasis is a condition characterized by the formation of crystal concretions within the kidneys or urinary tract. This urological disorder is on the rise globally, affecting both male and female populations. Unfortunately, conventional medicines used in the treatment of nephrolithiasis often lead to certain complications, eventually resulting in end-stage renal disease. As a result, there has been a growing interest in seeking risk-free therapies from nature to address this issue caused by the undesired effects of synthetic drugs. Evidence-based traditional medicine has emerged as a significant approach to treating nephrolithiasis, gaining recognition within the scientific community. In this review, we summarize recent scientific reports on various herbal drugs with clinical relevance in the treatment of nephrolithiasis, utilizing them as part of traditional medicine practices in the Asian continent. Additionally, several traditional medicine formulations from Ayurveda, Unani, and homeopathic systems, known for their potential lithotriptic effects and clinical applications, are highlighted. The primary focus of this review is to explore the mechanisms involved in the formation of kidney stones and provide a concise compilation of therapeutically effective herbs used in nephrolithiasis treatment.
Implication for health policy/practice/research/medical education:
Nephrolithiasis, also known as stone disease, is a common renal illness characterized by the accumulation of crystals in the renal medulla. Both adults and children are susceptible to this condition, with a majority of stones being composed of calcium oxalate, often combined with calcium phosphate. In recent years, traditional medicine has gained recognition for its use in treating nephrolithiasis within the scientific community.
Please cite this paper as: Singh P, Sabir Alam M, Arif M, Usmani S, Meraj Anjum M, Bhalla V, Garg A. An update on natural bioactive components of traditional preparations for the treatment of nephrolithiasis; a review. J Nephropharmacol. 2024;13(2):10545. DOI: 10.34172/npj.2024.10545.