The effect of beetroot (Beta vulgaris L.) ethanolic extract in the nephrolithiasis rat model

Nephrolithiasis is a prevalent urinary condition that often leads to the development of secondary stones. The biological activity of red beetroot (Beta vulgaris rubra) and its potential as a disease-prevention and health-promoting agent have garnered considerable attention in recent years. Our objective was to investigate the impact of B. vulgaris Ethanolic Extract (EEBV) in the nephrolithiasis rat model.

Thirty Wistar Kyoto rats were used and randomly divided into five groups. Except for the normal control group, 1 % ethylene glycol (EG) and 1 % ammonium chloride (AC) were added to drinking water for 14 days to induce nephrolithiasis. The intervention was administered to all animal groups except the normal controls. All animals were: a normal control group(Na CMC), a nephrolithiasis group (EG 1 %), the EEBV 125 group (nephrolithiasis rats given EEBV 125 mg/Kg BW per oral), the EEBV 250 group (nephrolithiasis rats given EEBV 250 mg/Kg BW), and the EEBV 500 group (nephrolithiasis rats given EEBV 500 mg/Kg BW). Biochemical assessments were performed on blood and urine samples. Crystal deposition and renal tissue damage were assessed using haematoxylin and eosin staining.

EEBV administration significantly improved serum and urine parameters. Histopathological analysis revealed that EEBV administration decreased renal alteration and crystal deposition. EEBV 125 and EEBV 250 have the greatest effect on reducing crystal deposition and improving renal function.

The study demonstrates that EEBV has beneficial effects in reducing the incidence of kidney stones and improving kidney function.