Physalis minima is a common Physalis species found in India, especially leaves are used as medicine. According to Ayurveda, Physalis minima used as antibacterial, analgesic, anti-inflammatory, diuretic. The present study was undertaken to investigate diuretic effect of petroleum ether extract of the Physalis minima in albino rats. MEPM (Methanolic Extract of Physalis minima) were administered at the doses of 100 and 200 mg/kg, p.o. Furosemide (500 mg/kg, p.o) was used as positive control in study. The diuretic effect of the extract was evaluated by measuring urine volume, sodium and potassium content. Urine volume is significantly increased at two doses of MEPM 100 and 200 mg/kg body wt in treated rats. The excretion of sodium, Potassium levels was also increased by the MEPM. The diuretic effect of the extract was similar to furosemide. The MEPM had the additional advantage of chloride conserving effect. This study concludes that MEPM produced notable diuretic effect which appeared to be comparable to that produced by the standard diuretic furosemide. The present study provides a quantitative basis for investigating the use of Physalis minima as a diuretic agent.
