Main Article Content
Abstract
The study investigates the in vitro antiurolithiatic and antioxidant potential of ethanolic extracts of Moringa oleifera Lam. leaves. Urolithiasis, a prevalent and recurring urinary tract disorder, affects millions worldwide and has been linked to metabolic and lifestyle factors. Due to limitations and adverse effects associated with conventional treatments, alternative herbal therapies are gaining interest. In this study, Moringa oleifera leaves were collected, authenticated, and extracted using the Soxhlet method with ethanol. Phytochemical screening revealed the presence of bioactive compounds such as flavonoids, alkaloids, glycosides, saponins, and phenolics. The antioxidant activity was evaluated using DPPH and hydrogen peroxide scavenging assays, with the extract demonstrating IC₅₀ values of 71.31 μg/ml and 94.98 μg/ml, respectively, comparable to ascorbic acid. The antiurolithiatic activity was assessed through calcium oxalate aggregation assay, showing a maximum inhibition of 39.96% at 500 μg/ml. The presence of phenolic and flavonoid compounds is believed to contribute significantly to the observed pharmacological effects. The results suggest that Moringa oleifera possesses substantial antioxidant and antiurolithiatic properties and could serve as a promising herbal remedy. Further in vivo and mechanistic studies are recommended to validate and understand its therapeutic role in urolithiasis management.