Camel (Camelus spp.) Urine Bioactivity and Metabolome: A Systematic Review of Knowledge Gaps, Advances, and Directions for Future Research

Abstract

Up to the present day, studies on the therapeutic properties of camel (Camelus spp.) urine and the detailed characterization of its metabolomic profile are scarce and often unrelated. Information on inter individual variability is noticeably limited, and there is a wide divergence across studies regarding the methods for sample storage, pre-processing, and extract derivatization for metabolomic analysis. Additionally, medium osmolarity is not experimentally adjusted prior to bioactivity assays. In this scenario, the methodological standardization and interdisciplinary approach of such processes will strengthen the interpretation, repeatability, and replicability of the empirical results on the compounds with bioactive properties present in camel urine. Furthermore, sample enlargement would also permit the evaluation of camel urine’s intra- and interindividual variability in terms of chemical composition, bioactive effects, and efficacy, while it may also permit researchers to discriminate potential animal-intrinsic and extrinsic conditioning factors. Altogether, the results would help to evaluate the role of camel urine as a natural source for the identification and extraction of specific novel bioactive substances that may deserve isolated chemical and pharmacognostic investigations through preclinical tests to determine their biological activity and the suitability of their safety profile for their potential inclusion in therapeutic formulas for improving human and animal health.

Camelids for Sustainability: A Socio-Economic Perspective

“…The 5000-year-old document 'Damar Tantra' is the oldest known medical treatise to first mention the therapeutic use of human urine [96]. In particular, drinking camel urine alone or mixed with milk is a widely renowned practice within the scope of folk medicine [97].…”

“…Camels are exotic elements that can be found within adventure travel companies promoting ecotourism activities. Such recreations contribute to sustainable livelihoods for local communities and educational empowerment towards nature and its conservation [96]. Ecotourism with camels would also significantly contribute to reducing greenhouse gases that lead to air pollution, along with declining the carbon footprint [107].…”