RESUMO
Medicinal plants are known for their effects in attenuation of hyperglycemia and restoration of lipids to normal levels. In this study, the effects of oral administration of Crataegus spp [CS] branchlet on serum glucose, lipids, and beta cell density in diabetic rats were investigated. Male NMRI rats [n = 32] were divided into 4 groups, i.e. control, CS-treated control, diabetic, and the CS-treated diabetic groups. The treatment groups received oral administration of plant-mixed pelleted food [6.25%] for 6 weeks. Serum glucose, triglycerides, total cholesterol, LDL- and HDL- cholesterol concentrations were determined before the study, and 3 and 6 weeks after the study. Density of beta cells in 4 groups was determined using the monochrome Gomori staining method. Serum glucose concentration was significantly lower in the CS-treated diabetic group, compared to diabetics, 3 and 6 weeks after the study [p<0.05]. In addition, there were no significant changes regarding serum total cholesterol, triglycerides, and HDL-cholesterol concentrations in the treated diabetic group as compared to the diabetic group. On the other hand, the treated diabetic group showed significantly lower levels of LDL-cholesterol as compared to the diabetic group [p<0.05]. Regarding histology, beta cell density significantly decreased in diabetic rats, while CS treatment caused no changes. Oral administration of CS has a significant hypoglycemic effect and lowers serum LDL-cholesterol