PHYTOCHEMICAL INVESTIGATION AND PHARMACOLOGICAL EVALUATION OF SESBANIA SESBAN (L.) EXTRACT FOR DIURETIC ACTIVITY

Sesbania sesban (L.) Merr., a member of the Fabaceae family, is a widely distributed medicinal plant known for its diverse therapeutic applications in traditional medicine systems. It has been extensively used for the treatment of inflammatory conditions, microbial infections, and renal disorders. Among its pharmacological properties, its potential as a natural diuretic has attracted significant scientific interest due to the limitations and adverse effects associated with synthetic diuretics. This review aims to highlight the phytochemical constituents and pharmacological evaluation of Sesbania sesban, with special emphasis on its diuretic activity. Phytochemical investigations have revealed the presence of bioactive compounds such as flavonoids, alkaloids, saponins, tannins, glycosides, and steroids. These constituents are known to play a crucial role in modulating renal function and promoting diuresisVarious experimental studies using aqueous and methanolic extracts of the plant have demonstrated significant diuretic effects in animal models. The extracts have been shown to increase urine output and enhance the excretion of electrolytes, including sodium, potassium, and chloride ions. In several cases, the observed effects were found to be comparable to standard diuretic drugs such as Furosemide, indicating its potential therapeutic relevance in the management of conditions like hypertension, edema, and fluid retention. The underlying mechanism of action is believed to involve increased renal blood flow, enhanced glomerular filtration, and inhibition of tubular reabsorption of electrolytes. Despite promising preclinical evidence, the lack of clinical studies and standardized formulations limits its application in modern medicine.