In Vivo Diuretic Efficacy, Antioxidant Capacity, and Mineral Profiling of Tree Gum Exudates from Sour Cherry (Prunus cerasus), Mahaleb (Prunus mahaleb), and Cherry (Prunus avium).

Background and Objectives: In this investigation, the mineral profile, antioxidant properties, and phenolic composition of tree gum exudates harvested from sour cherry (Prunus cerasus), mahaleb (Prunus mahaleb), and cherry (Prunus avium) were assessed, together with their in vivo diuretic efficacy in a Wistar albino rat model. Materials and Methods: Spectrophotometric quantification of total flavonoids and phenolics relied on aluminum nitrate and Folin-Ciocalteu reagents, respectively. Antioxidant potential was evaluated through radical scavenging tests, copper reduction capacity, and ferric reducing power, whereas ICP-MS was employed for elemental profiling. Rats were assigned to five groups: Control (distilled water), Furosemide (standard drug), PCRWE (group treated with P. cerasus tree gum exudate), PMRWE (group treated with P. mahaleb tree gum exudate), and PARWE (group treated with P. avium tree gum exudate). Urine samples collected at 5 and 24 h post administration were assessed for volume and Na+, K+, and Cl- electrolyte concentrations to evaluate natriuretic and carbonic anhydrase activities. Results: Tree gum exudates contained rich mineral profiles, high phenolic and flavonoid levels, and strong antioxidant capacities. Cherry and mahaleb tree gum exudates showed low short-term and moderate long-term diuretic activity. In contrast, sour cherry tree gum exudate exhibited moderate short-term and high long-term diuretic activity. Furthermore, tree gum exudates significantly enhanced sodium, and potassium ion excretion compared to furosemide, demonstrating notable natriuretic and carbonic anhydrase activities. Conclusions: Tree gum exudates represent promising bioactive ingredients, antioxidants, or natural preservatives for food products. Specifically, sour cherry tree gum exudate displays significant diuretic and natriuretic potential, positioning it as a promising natural therapeutic agent for fluid balance management. Further research is required to isolate the active compounds and elucidate their specific mechanism on renal function.