Plant-based therapies for urolithiasis: a systematic review of clinical and preclinical studies

source extracted confidence: high 2026-04-09
#animals #humans #clinical-studies-as-topic #drug-evaluation-preclinical #phytotherapy

Plant-based therapies for urolithiasis: a systematic review of clinical and preclinical studies

Allam et al., 2024 | Int Urol Nephrol | Systematic Review

Citation

Allam Essmat A H, Sabra Mahmoud S. Plant-based therapies for urolithiasis: a systematic review of clinical and preclinical studies. Int Urol Nephrol. 2024-Dec;56(12):3687-3718. doi:10.1007/s11255-024-04148-9

Abstract

PURPOSE: Urolithiasis, the formation of kidney stones, is a common and severe condition. Despite advances in understanding its pathophysiology, affordable treatment options are needed worldwide. Hence, the interest is in herbal medicines as alternative or supplementary therapy for urinary stone disease. This review explores the use of plant extracts and phytochemicals in preventing and treating urolithiasis. METHODS: Following PRISMA standards, we systematically reviewed the literature on PubMed/Medline, focusing on herbal items evaluated in in vivo models, in vitro studies, and clinical trials related to nephrolithiasis/urolithiasis. We searched English language publications from January 2021 to December 2023. Studies assessing plant extracts and phytochemicals' therapeutic potential in urolithiasis were included. Data extracted included study design, stone type, plant type, part of plant used, solvent type, main findings, and study references. RESULTS: A total of 64 studies were included. Most studies used ethylene glycol to induce hyperoxaluria and nephrolithiasis in rat models. Various extraction methods were used to extract bioactive compounds from different plant parts. Several plants and phytochemicals, including Alhagi maurorum, Aerva lanata, Dolichos biflorus, Cucumis melo, and quercetin, demonstrated potential effectiveness in reducing stone formation, size, and number. CONCLUSIONS: Natural substances offer an alternative or supplementary approach to current treatments, potentially reducing pain and improving the quality of life for urolithiasis patients. However, further research is needed to clarify their mechanisms of action and optimize their therapeutic use. The potential of plant-based therapies in treating urolithiasis is promising, and ongoing research is expected to lead to treatment advancements benefiting patients globally.

Key Findings

A total of 64 studies were included. Most studies used ethylene glycol to induce hyperoxaluria and nephrolithiasis in rat models. Various extraction methods were used to extract bioactive compounds from different plant parts. Several plants and phytochemicals, including Alhagi maurorum, Aerva lanata, Dolichos biflorus, Cucumis melo, and quercetin, demonstrated potential effectiveness in reducing stone formation, size, and number.

Outcomes Measured

  • Requires manual extraction

Population

Field Value
Population See abstract
Sample Size 64
Age Range See abstract
Condition See abstract

MeSH Terms

  • Animals
  • Humans
  • Clinical Studies as Topic
  • Drug Evaluation, Preclinical
  • Phytotherapy
  • Plant Extracts
  • Urolithiasis

Evidence Classification

  • Level: Systematic Review
  • Publication Types: Systematic Review, Journal Article
  • Vertical: quercetin

Provenance

Source extracted via PubMed E-utilities API on 2026-04-09