Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Blepharis species, particularly Blepharis edulis and Blepharis maderaspatensis, have been used in traditional medicine systems such as Ayurveda and Unani for the management of kidney stones (urolithiasis). Traditional healers have employed the seeds, leaves, and sometimes whole plant preparations for their reputed diuretic and lithotriptic (stone-dissolving) properties. Texts and ethnobotanical surveys document the use of Blepharis preparations to promote urine flow and help expel small stones from the urinary tract.

However, scientific evidence supporting these uses is limited. A few in vitro and animal studies have indicated possible diuretic effects and some reduction in the formation or deposition of calcium oxalate crystals, which are the main constituents of kidney stones. For example, extracts of Blepharis edulis have demonstrated increased urine output and reduced stone-forming constituents in animal models. Nonetheless, these studies are preliminary, often use crude extracts, and have not been systematically translated into human clinical trials.

Therefore, while the traditional use of Blepharis for kidney stones is well-documented, rigorous scientific validation is lacking. The evidence base primarily consists of traditional knowledge and a few early-stage pharmacological studies, meriting a modest evidence score.

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