ABSTRACT
Aim: The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of leaf essential oil of Citrus sinensis (Rutaceae) on haematological parameters of alloxan – induced diabetic rats. Methodology: Diabetes was induced in albino rats by intraperitoneal administration of single dose of alloxan monohydrate (150 mg/kg body weight). The leaf essential oil of Citrus sinensis at a dose of 110 mg/kg b.wt was administered every other day to the diabetic rats during 15 days. The effects of leaf essential oil on the erythrocyte and leucocyte indices were then evaluated. Results: Red Blood Cell, Packed Cell Volume, White blood cell, Neutrophils and Leucocytes were reduced significantly in diabetic animals. However, treatment with leaf oil of C. sinensis increased these parameters subsequently. Conclusion: It is concluded that leaf essential oil of Citrus sinensis improved the erythrocyte and leucocyte indices of diabetic rats.
ABSTRACT
Aim: The aim of this study was to investigate the antihyperglycemic activity of leaf essential oil of Citrus sinensis (Rutaceae) in alloxan –induced diabetic rats. Methodology: Diabetes was induced in albino rats by intraperitoneal administration of single dose of alloxan monohydrate (150 mg/kg body weight). The leaf essential oil of Citrus sinensis at a dose of 110 mg/kg b.wt was administered every other day to the diabetic rats for a period of 15 days. The effects of leaf essential oil on blood glucose, hepatic glucose and glycogen were evaluated. 14.2 mg/kg body weight of metformin was used as a reference drug. Results: Intraperitoneal administration of the oil to diabetic rats led to a significant reduction (P = .05) of fasting blood glucose and hepatic glucose levels while hepatic glycogen significantly increased (P = .05) when compared to diabetic control animals. Conclusion: It is concluded that leaf essential oil of Citrus sinensis possesses significant antihyperglycemic effect on alloxan – induced diabetic rats at the dose tested.