Chemical constituents, clinical efficacy and molecular mechanisms of the ethanol extract ofAbelmoschus manihotflowers in treatment of kidney diseases

Abelmoschus manihot, also called as Huangkui in Chinese, is an annual flowering herb plant in the family of Malvaceae. As a traditional Chinese medicine, the ethanol extract of the flower inAbelmoschus manihotis made as Huangkui capsule and has been used for medication of the patients with kidney diseases. Its efficacy in clinical symptoms is mainly improving renal function and reducing proteinuria among the patients with chronic kidney disease, diabetic kidney disease or IgA nephropathy. The possible mechanism of Huangkui capsule treatment in kidney diseases may include reducing inflammation and anti-oxidative stress, improving immune response, protecting renal tubular epithelial cells, ameliorating podocyte apoptosis, glomerulosclerosis and mesangial proliferation, as well as inhibiting renal fibrosis. In this review, we first described chemical constituents and pharmacokinetic characteristics in ethanol extract of the flower ofAbelmoschus manihot. We then summarized the clinical and epidemiological relevancies of kidney diseases particularly in the mainland of China and discussed the possible molecular mechanisms of Huangkui capsule in the treatment of kidney diseases. Finally, we prospected further research on cellular and molecular mechanisms and application of this Chinese natural medicine in kidney diseases.

Automated summary

Abelmoschus manihot, known as Huangkui in Chinese, is a traditional Chinese medicine used to improve renal function and reduce proteinuria in patients with kidney diseases. Its mechanisms may involve reducing inflammation, improving immune response, protecting renal cells, and inhibiting renal fibrosis. Further research is needed to explore the full potential and applications of this natural medicine in treating kidney diseases.