ABSTRACT
The diuretic activity of Benincasa hispida fruit rind extract (outer thick pericarp) was investigated and its activity was compared to control (normal saline) and standard diuretic hydrochlorothiazide in albino rats. Total of 54 adult male Sprague-Dawley rats were taken whose weights ranged from 175-225 gm. The rats were divided into three groups of 18 rats each (control, standard and test). Control group received 0.9% normal saline 25ml/kg orally. Standard group received hydrochlorothiazide 2.5mg/kg body weight orally along with normal saline keeping the volume of the fluid administered constant. Test group received aqueous extract of rind of Benincasa hispida at the dose of 100mg/kg orally along with normal saline 25ml/kg. Urine was collected for a period of 5 hours by placing the animals in metabolic cages. The urinary volume, pH, and urinary excretion of sodium, potassium and chloride were measured and compared. The extract produced significant increase (p<0.001) in urine volume, sodium and chloride levels, and significant decrease (p<0.001) in potassium excretion. Benincasa hispida rind extract possesses significant diuretic activity.