A group of students from Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) has uncovered the remarkable benefits of binahong leaves as a potential therapy for acute kidney injury.
This research project, led by Zhafira Mafaz and involving her colleagues Astia Anelia, Zahira Shofa, Fadhil Maulana, and Iffah Zakiya Yasmin, is part of the Student Creativity Program in the Exact Sciences Research field.
The team received funding from the Ministry of Education and Culture, allowing them to conduct in-depth experiments and analyses on the potential benefits of binahong (Anredera cordifolia) leaves.
“Binahong leaves, already known in traditional medicine, contain active compounds that can have therapeutic effects on the kidneys and the healing process,” explained Mafaz.
“Initial research findings indicate that binahong leaf extracts can reduce inflammation and kidney cell death in experimental animal models. The leaves also possess antioxidant properties that protect the kidneys from further damage.”
Acute kidney injury is a serious medical condition resulting from various factors, such as transplantation, severe blood loss, heart disease, cancer, or certain drug side effects. This injury can lead to life-threatening kidney function disturbances.
Acute kidney injury therapy primarily focuses on conventional medical treatments, such as dialysis and supportive care. According to Mafaz, the discovery of binahong leaf potentials provides a strong foundation for further research.
“This research can be the basis for advancing binahong leaves to the next stage. If successful, using binahong leaves as an additional therapy for acute kidney injury could open the door to more effective and sustainable treatment for affected patients,” she added.
These students come from the Faculty of Medicine, Public Health, and Nursing, the Faculty of Biology, and the Faculty of Pharmacy. This research was conducted under the guidance of Dr. Nur Arfian, MD.
“This research offers new hope in the treatment of acute kidney injury. With hard work and interdisciplinary collaboration, this research inspires us all to continue exploring the potential of nature in efforts to improve human health and quality of life,” Mafaz concluded.
Author: The UGM Binahong Research Team
Editor: Gloria