Man’s Best Friend?
Although widely feared, reptiles have been known to provide humans with some of the most significant benefits. For instance, the venom of particular snake species has been used to develop life-saving drugs, while alligator bones are a rich source of collagen.
However, there’s another feature of reptiles that scientists think could be used to treat kidney stones and gout: their Urine. To understand the potential benefits of reptile urine, it’s essential to first look at the manner in which these cold-blooded creatures expel waste in the first place.
Reptile Excrement
Unlike humans, reptiles do not produce urine in liquid form. Instead, they convert waste into urates, crystal-like forms that contain a high amount of uric acid. These are then expelled through an opening called the cloaca.
Human Crystallization
While this process of crystallization is beneficial to reptiles, it is seen as problematic for humans. High levels of uric acid can cause humans to develop gout and kidney stones.
In addition to being painful, kidney stones can result in painful urination, nausea, and vomiting. Gout, on the other hand, involves intense joint pain that can worsen if left untreated.
Then, how can Reptile Urine Possibly Help Gout and Kidney Stones?
In a recent article in the Journal of the American Chemical Society, researchers found that over 20 reptile species had urine with microscopic spheres. In addition, it was discovered that “these microspheres form even smaller nanocrystals of water and uric acid.”
As of this writing, scientists are trying to understand how reptiles manage such high levels of uric acid. Once this is known, there’s a possibility that there just MIGHT be a new way to treat gout and kidney stones.
