The dried roots and aerial parts of Echinops echinatus Roxb. were subjected to Methanolic extraction. The prepared extracts were then subjected to preliminary phytochemical analysis. It was found that roots and aerial parts possess alkaloids, carbohydrates, flavonoids, tannins and phenolic compounds. The diuretic potential of methanolic extracts of the aerial parts and roots was assessed in albino rats using in-vivo Lipschitz test model. The volumes of urine, urinary concentration of sodium and potassium ions were the parameters of the study. Frusemide was used as standard. The results indicate that methanolic extracts at 250 mg/kg and 500 mg/kg body weight shows a significant increase in the urine volume and electrolyte excretion when compared to control. Both the extracts show significant diuretic activity. From the present study it may be concluded that the constituents present in methanolic extracts may be responsible for diuretic activity.
