Exploration of diuretic potential of different parts (flower, bark, leaf) of Butea Monosperma
Hypertension (HTN) or high blood pressure poses major global health concerns, and the conventional synthetic antihypertensive drugs are effective, though their long-term use is often limited due to adverse effects. Butea monosperma (B. monosperma), commonly known as the Flame of the Forest, the traditional use as medicinal plant for diuresis and other usage in rural areas in South Asia suggests a role for its antihypertensive potential. The study aimed, first to identify the diuretic constituents present from different parts (flower, bark, and leaf) of B. monosperma and to evaluate their diuretic activity through in vivo experimentation. The chemical profiling of the extracts of different parts were performed using Liquid Chromatography Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS), while diuretic efficacy was assessed in Swiss Albino wistar rats. Urinary volume and electrolyte excretion (Na{square}, K{square}, and Cl{square}) were measured to elucidate the possible mechanism of action. Statistical analyses were conducted using one-way ANOVA followed by multiple comparison test, with significance set at p < 0.05. LC MS/MS analysis confirmed the presence of chlorthalidone, a thiazide-like diuretic compound, in all three plant parts under selective ionization mode. In vivo results demonstrated a significant, dose dependent increase in urine output and electrolyte excretion in treated rats compared to controls (p < 0.05). These findings provide both phytochemical and pharmacological evidence that B. monosperma possesses potent diuretic activity, supporting its traditional use and highlighting its potential as a natural source for the development of novel antihypertensive and diuretic therapeutics.