Evaluation of the Diuretic Effect of Leek (Allium porrum L.) Extract in Adult Male Wistar Rats

Leek (Allium porrum L.) has a wide range of biological activities, such as antibacterial, hypotensive, and digestive properties. In traditional medicine, diuretic activity of leek (Allium porrum L.) has not been yet scientifically investigated. This study was performed with the aim of determining the diuretic effect of ethanolic extract of aerial parts of leek in adult male rats. In this experimental study, 49 male rats were randomly allocated into 7 equal groups. Initially, the animals were pre-treated with physiological saline (0.9% NaCl) at an oral dose of 5ml/100g body weight. Control negative animals were treated with distilled water. Experimental animals received leek ethanolic extract intragastrically (at doses of 50, 75, 100, 150, and 200mg/kg body weight). Control positive animals were given furosemide (10mg/kg body weight). Immediately after treatment, the rats were placed individually in a metabolic cage. Then, their urine was collected and the urine volume was measured every hour for 5 hours. The data were analyzed using one-way ANOVA statistical test. Treatment with leek ethanolic extract at doses of 75 and 100mg/kg body weight, significantly increased urine volume and urinary electrolytes (Na+ and K+), which was similar to furosemide (p<0.05). The results of the present study indicated that leek extract has significant diuretic activity, providing evidence for its folkloric use.