Preventive effect of Cynodon dactylon against ethylene glycol-induced nephrolithiasis in male rats

This study was carried out to investigate the preventive effects of hydroalcoholic extract of Cynodon dactylon (C.dactylon) roots on calcium oxalate calculi in rat. 24 Wistar rats were randomly divided into 4 groups: group A received tap drinking water while, Groups B, C, and D received 1% ethylene glycol daily for 28 days. Rats in groups C and D received ethanolic extract of C.dactylon at doses equivalent to 3.2 mg/kg and 12.6 mg/kg of root powder, respectively in drinking water from day 0 to day 28. Urine and blood were collected on days 0 and 28 and analyzed for biochemical elements. After 28 days, the kidneys were removed and prepared for histological evaluation of calcium oxalate deposits (CaOx). The number of CaOx deposits in 10 microscopic fields of kidney slices in group B was 24.5 ± 4.40 which was significantly higher than group A (p<0.001). In group C, the number of deposits was significantly lower than group B. The weight of the kidneys was increased in group B vs group A (p<0.05). However, C.dactylon was able to decrease the weight of kidneys in group C (p<0.05). Urine oxalate level decreased in nephrolithiatic rats treated with the extract. This study showed that C. dactylon extract was able to reduce the growth of urinary stones in the rat. Therefore, the beneficial action of C.dactylon extract on human kidney stones may be suggested. However, further studies must clarify the mechanism.