Effectiveness of betel leaves (piper betle l.) and breadfruit leaves (Artocarpus atilis) in reducing uric acid levels in hyperuricemic male white rats (Rattus norvegicus)

Abstract

Hyperuricemia is a condition where plasma uric acid is elevated. Prolonged elevated uric acid levels increase the risk of gout. Herbal medication is an alternative therapy for gout with minimum side effects. Betel (Piper betle) leaves and breadfruit (Artocarpus atilis) leaves contain natural substances that may reduce uric acid levels. The study aims to compare the effectiveness of betel leaves and breadfruit leaves extract in reducing plasma uric acid levels in hyperuricemic male white rats using a pre-and-post control group experimental research with 24 hyperuricemic male white rats divided into 4 groups. Negative control group were given normal feed and aquadest. Positive control group were given high-purine feed and aquadest. Group 1 and 2 were given high-purine feed and betel leaf extract of 332mg/200gBW and breadfruit leaf extract of 500mg/200gBW respectively. Data were analyzed using paired t-test. Postive control group showed uric acid level of 8.01mg/dl and 8.25mg/dl (pre and post-test respectively). Betel leaf extract group showed with post-test uric acid level of 2.02mg/dl from 8.09mg/dl, while breadfruit leaf extract group from 8.12mg/dl to 2.28mg/dl. Betel leaf and breadfruit leaf extract were effective in reducing uric acid levels in hyperuricemic male white rats.