ABSTRACT
The aim of this study was to evaluate the possibility of a diuretic effect of natural honey in rats and the possible mechanism of action. Oral administration of honey to rats at a dose of 1, 2, 4 or 8 gm/kg resulted in a diuretic effect as compared with the control group. In comparison with hydrochlorothiazide, there was no significant difference between honey and hydrochlorothiazide as regards urine volume, but the diuretic effect of honey was accompanied with a more significant increase in sodium and chloride excretion when compared with the effect of hydrochlorothiazide. The results showed that diuretic effect of honey was not attributed to the osmotic effect of its sugar content, since a mixture of glucose-fructose-sucrose and maltose [GFSM] in the same proportions as they were found in natural honey given to rats orally at a dose of 4 gm/kg and 8 gm/kg did not produce any diuretic effect