Antiurolithic and antihypertensive activities of Origanum vulgaris on urolithic rats

Origanum vulgaris (Oregano) has been used in the fluky medicinal for treating various diseases including urolithiasis and hypertension. This study was designed to investigate the possible antioxidant and antiurolithic activities of different standardized extracts of Oregano ethanol extract n-hexane, ethyl acetate, and aqueous fraction on rats. The dried hydroalcoholic extract of 70% ethyl alcohol Oregano was suspended in water and successively extracted with n-hexane and ethyl acetate. Each active extract was screened of phytochemical and standardized spectrophotometricaly by estimation of total phenol and total flavonoid content. Antiurolithic and antioxidant activities were studied on live rat model by oral doses of ethylene glycol and NH4Cl. The active extracts of Oregano (20 mg/kg) were given to different groups and one group without extracts was used as control. At the end of the experimental period, blood samples were obtained from studying biochemical parameters and a kidney specimen for histopathology using scanning electron microscope. Ethanol extract, n-hexane and aqueous fractions prevented as well as opposed toxic changes, including loss of body weight gain and appetite, raised serum urea, uric acid and creatinine levels, and crystal deposition in the kidneys. These potential urolithitic effects of ethylene glycol should be taken into considerations with close monitoring of kidney function tests at frequent intervals. The oregano antioxidant effect might be more effective in the amelioration of ethylene glycol induced kidney injury and urolithiasis.   Key words: Anihypertensive, Origanum vulgaris, urolithiasis, renoprotective, rats.