Traditional Remedies Used in the Treatment of Urinary System and Kidney Diseases in Sudan

Background: Ethnopharmacological approaches to treating urinary and renal disorders remain integral to healthcare practices throughout Sudan, yet comprehensive documentation of these traditional interventions is lacking. The growing incidence of kidney disorders in Sudan, attributable to environmental conditions and limited healthcare access, underscores the importance of these traditional approaches. Methods: This review employed a systematic approach following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) guidelines to identify and synthesize information about traditional Sudanese remedies for urinary system and kidney diseases. A literature search was conducted using databases including PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar, and African Journals Online. Initially, 487 articles were identified, with 52 included in the qualitative synthesis. Results: Analysis reveals diverse botanical agents used across Sudanese regions, with significant usage of Acacia senegal (gum Arabic), Ambrosia maritima, Boscia senegalensis, Solenostemma argel, and Cymbopogon proximus. Preliminary investigations have substantiated the potential of select remedies, notably gum Arabic, for renal insufficiency, demonstrating improved metabolic parameters and reduced serum creatinine in controlled trials. Conclusion: While traditional Sudanese remedies show promising potential, most lack rigorous validation. This review highlights the need for phytochemical analysis, toxicological assessment, and clinical trials to establish safety and efficacy for integration into contemporary nephrology practice.