Plants used to decrease serum creatinine levels and contrast-induced nephropathy: A review article

Contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN) is one of the most common reasons for acute kidney failure. Because of the increasing use of contrasts for computed tomography and angiography and coronary interventions, the incidence of CIN is on rise. CIN is a serious and common side effect ofthe use of contrasts. Despite taking of preventative measures, around 30-70% of patients are at risk of CIN. Researchers thus are seeking out appropriate approaches to prevent CIN. Positive effects of many medicinal plants, with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and high efficiency and safety, in decreasing serum creatinine levels have been demonstrated. This study was conducted to collect evidence on the medicinal plants that are effective in decreasing serum creatinine levels and CINdevelopment

For this purpose, the key words contrast media, herbal, acute kidney injury, and nephropathy were used to retrieve relevant articles indexed in Google Scholar, Magiran, Elsevier, and PubMed. Then, the eligible articles were included in the review.

The results of studies are reported  in Table.

Although some studies have suggested that some herbs have a toxic effect on kidney function, in the present review, most plants could help decrease serum creatinine levels and improve renal function.