Comparative Study of Cuscuta reflexa and Cassytha filiformis for Diuretic Activity

Aqueous and alcoholic extract of Cuscuta reflexa and Cassytha filiformis were investigated for diuretic activity in Wister rats. The extracts were administered once orally at a dose of 300mg/kg. Frusemide (20mg/kg) was used as standard reference drug and normal saline (25 ml/kg) was used as control. Total urine volume and concentration of Na⁺, K⁺ and Cl⁻ excreted in urine were estimated. Aqueous and alcoholic extract of Cuscuta reflexa and Cassytha filiformis exhibited significant diuretic activity and caused marked increase in Na+ and K⁺ excretion, when compared to saline treated controls. However the diuretic activity of Cassytha filiformis extract was higher than that of Cuscuta reflexa.