Effects of Steviol on renal function and mean arterial pressure in rats.

The effects of steviol, obtained from Stevia rebaudiana, on renal function were investigated using clearance techniques in Wistar rats. Steviol (0.5, 1.0 and 3.0 mg/kg(-1)/h(-1)iv) elicited no significant changes in mean arterial pressure (MAP), glomerular filtration rate (GFR) and renal effective plasma flow (ERPF). The steviol infusion (1.0 and 3.0 mg/kg(-1)/h(-1)), however, induced a significant increase in the fractional sodium excretion (FeNa(+)), fractional potassium excretion (FeK(+)), and urinary flow as percent of glomerular filtration rate (V/GFR) when compared to controls. The data suggest that the steviol may affect salt and water transport in renal tubules.