Antilithiac activity of Chrysopogon zizanioides Brushite crystallization in vitro

Abstract

Urolithiasis or the formation of calculi at any level of urinary tract is a common disorder found throughout world. Brushite minerals, probably the initiator of stone formation under favorable physiological environment, are one of the most commonly occurring stones along with calcium oxalate mono and di-hydrates. An attempt was made to know the effectiveness of methanolic extract of Chrysopogon zizanioides L. (Vetiver) roots on the growth of brushite crystals. Brushite crystals grown by single gel diffusion technique were treated with different additives, and with increasing concentration of the herbal extract, the crystals showed reduced size, weight, transparency and complexity in morphology. Preliminary phytochemical analysis confirmed the presence of active components like flavonoids, saponins, phenols and anthocyanins. The Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) spectrum of harvested brushite crystals from various treatments revealed band shifts, disappearance of existing and appearance of new peaks which indicated the action of extract. The work established the inhibitory activity of vetiver root extract on the formation of brushite and supports the conventional knowledge of using vetiver root for control and treatment of kidney stones.