A Review on Phytochemical Constituents and Anti-Urolithic Activity of Medicinal Plants

Abstract

Urolithiasis remains a significant global health burden, characterized by the recurrent formation of crystalline calculi within the urinary tract. Despite advancements in lithotripsy and surgical interventions, these methods often fail to prevent recurrence and are associated with substantial costs. This review synthesizes current knowledge on medicinal plants as sustainable alternatives for the management of kidney stones. It explores the diverse phytochemical profiles of ethnomedicinal species, emphasizing the roles of alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, and saponins. These bioactive compounds exert anti-urolithiatic effects through multi-targeted mechanisms, including the inhibition of calcium oxalate (CaOx) nucleation, crystal growth, and aggregation, alongside potent diuretic and antioxidant activities. By examining both in vitro dissolution assays and in vivo rodent models, this paper highlights the synergistic potential of herbal formulations in mitigating oxidative stress and renal tissue damage. The findings underscore the necessity for standardized clinical trials to transition traditional botanical knowledge into evidence-based phytotherapies.