Anti-hyperglycemic and Anti-nephropathic effects of Woodfordia fruticosa linn. in alloxan-induced diabetic rats

ABSTRACT

Diabetes is a serious medical problem and affects millions of people worldwide. In Indian folk medicine, many plant species are suggested to be antidiabetic but lack concrete scientific proof. The present study investigated the antidiabetic potential of one plant species namely Woodfordia fruticosa [Linn]. Crude extract was administered acutely [3 g/kg b.w] and chronically [142 mg/kg b.w/day for 21 days] to alloxan monohydrate -induced diabetic rats. Controls were treated with DM SO and glibenclamide. Glucose levels were estimated at 0, 1, 3 and 5 hrs [for acute] and at day 1, 7. 14 and 21 [for chronic]. At end of treatments rats were sacrificed. Serum samples were evaluated for creatinine, urea, liver enzymes, ALT, AST ALP, cholesterol and tnglycerides. Histology of pancreas was done to assess histomorphology. Results showed that Woodfordia fruticosa extract caused a greater reduction [P< 0.001] in plasma glucose concentration in both acute and chronic treatments. ALT AST and ALP and serum urea were significantly reduced in the extract treated diabetic rats [P < 0.001]. Cellular deformities in diabetic rat pancreas demonstrated restoration of pancreatic architecture. The present study demonstrates that Woodfordia fruticosa extract contains glucose lowering activity and can prove useful in diabetic and diabetes related pathologies