Antidiabetic Activities of Hydromethanolic Leaf Extract of Calpurnia aurea (Ait.) Benth. Subspecies aurea (Fabaceae) in Mice

Response surface methodology based development of an optimized polyherbal formulation and evaluation of its anti-diabetic and anti-obesity potential in high-fat diet-induced obese mice

Background and aim

The seeds of Nelumbo nucifera, Chenopodium quinoa and Salvia hispanica are known as super foods due to their various therapeutic properties. The present study aimed to develop an optimized polyherbal formulation from edible seeds aqueous extract and to evaluate its anti-diabetic and lipase inhibitory effect on diet-induced obese diabetic mice.

Experimental procedure

Response surface methodology based various formulations were evaluated for their potent anti-diabetic, lipase-inhibitory and antioxidant activities. Acute toxicity of the best optimized formulation was conducted. The mice were fed a high fat diet for 10 weeks resulting in hyperglycemia and obesity. Oral tolerance tests (sucrose, starch and lipid) of the formulation were performed. The mice were supplemented with different doses (125, 250 and 500 mg/kg) of the formulation for 6 weeks. The body weight and blood glucose level were monitored on a weekly basis. Finally, histological alterations and lipid profiles were analysed.

Results and conclusion

The formulation containing equal concentration (1.5 mg/ml) of each seed extract showed maximum bioactivities. The formulation was found to be safe during toxicity assay. The tolerance tests supported the anti-diabetic and anti-obesity effect. Higher dose (500 mg/kg) of the formulation significantly (p < 0.01) lowered elevated fasting blood glucose, lipid indices and ameliorated the histological alterations in liver, kidney and pancreas caused by high fat diet. We demonstrated for the first time that the developed aqueous extract optimized formulation possess anti-diabetic and anti-obesity potential and thus could be used as adjuvant therapy for holistic management of type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Antidermatophytic quinolizidine alkaloids from Calpurnia aurea subsp. aurea (Aiton) Benth

From the leaves and stem bark of the Kenyan medicinal plant Calpurnia aurea subsp. aurea, four previously undescribed quinolizidine alkaloids namely, 2β-methoxy-13α-O-(2'-pyrrolylcarbonyl) virgiline, 2α-methoxy-13β-O-(2'-pyrrolylcarbonyl) virgiline, 3α-O-angelate-2β-hydroxy-13α-O-(2'-pyrrolylcarbonyl) virgiline, 2,3-dehydro-virgiline were isolated together with four known ones. Structural elucidation of the compounds was based on 1D and 2D NMR spectroscopy and mass spectrometry. Their relative configurations were determined by NOESY correlations and literature. The quinolizidine alkaloids were tested against Trichophyton rubrum, Trichophyton interdigitale, Trichophyton benhamiae, Microsporum canis and Nannizzia gypsea, common causative agents of most of the tinea infections in human. All the isolated quinolizidine alkaloids exhibited antidermatophytic activity with MIC ranging from 37.5 μg/ml to 300 μg/ml.

Upregulation of PCSK9, rho kinase and cardiac troponin by Eucalyptus globulus leaf extract improves fructose-streptozotocin-induced diabetic cardiac dysfunction in rats

CONTEXT

The effect of Eucalyptus globulus in diabetic cardiac dysfunction and the possible mechanisms involved have not been explored.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the effect of ethanol leaf extract of E. globulus (NEE) on the cardiac function of fructose/streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Type-2 diabetes was induced in rats with 10% fructose feeding for 14 days and an intraperitoneal administration of 40 mg/kg streptozotocin. Diabetic animals were treated with NEE (100-400 mg/kg) or 5 mg/kg glibenclamide orally for 21 days. Biochemical assays, histopathological examination and analyses of PCSK9, Rho kinase and Cardiac troponin expression were performed.

RESULTS

The untreated diabetic group showed decreased expression of the genes, oxidative stress, dyslipidemia, increased activities of creatine kinase MB and lactate dehydrogenase, reduced nitric oxide level, and depletion of cardiomyocytes, which were reversed in NEE treated groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Eucalyptus globulus ameliorated diabetic cardiac dysfunction through increased PCSK9, Rho kinase and Cardiac troponin expression.

Antibacterial activity and phytochemical components of leaf extract of Calpurnia aurea

Local Ethiopians use Calpurnia aurea to treat skin infections. However, there is no adequate scientific confirmation. The aim of this study was to evaluate the antibacterial activities of the crude and the fractionated extracts of C. aurea leaves against different bacterial strains. The crude extract was made by maceration. The Soxhlet extraction method was used to obtain fractional extracts. The antibacterial activity against gram positive and gram negative American Type Culture Collection (ATCC) strains was performed using the agar diffusion technique. The minimum inhibitory concentration was determined through the microtiter broth dilution method. Preliminary phytochemical screening was done using standard techniques. The largest yield was obtained from ethanol fractional extract. Except for chloroform, which provided a relatively low yield when compared to petroleum ether, increasing the polarity of the extracting solvent improved the yield. The crude extract, solvent fractions, and the positive control showed inhibitory zone diameter, while the negative control did not. When used at a concentration of 75 mg/ml, the crude extract had similar antibacterial effects as gentamicin (0.1 mg/ml) and the ethanol fraction. The 2.5 mg/ml crude ethanol extract of C. aurea suppressed the growth of Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Streptococcus pneumoniae, and Staphylococcus aureus, according to the MIC values. The extract of C. aurea was more effective in inhibiting P. aeruginosa than the other gram-negative bacteria. Fractionation enhanced the antibacterial effect of the extract. All fractionated extracts showed the highest inhibition zone diameter against S. aureus. Petroleum ether extract had the greatest inhibition zone diameter against all bacterial strains. The non-polar components were more active compared to the more polar fractions. The phytochemical components discovered in the leaves of C. aurea included alkaloids, flavonoids, saponins, and tannins. Among these, the tannin content was remarkably high. The current results could provide a rational support for the traditional use of C. aurea to treat skin infections.

Chemical Profiling and Molecular Docking Study of Agathophora alopecuroides

Natural products continue to provide inspiring chemical moieties that represent a key stone in the drug discovery process. As per our previous research, the halophyte Agathophora alopecuroides was noted as a potential antidiabetic plant. However, the chemical profiling and highlighting the metabolite(s) responsible for the observed antidiabetic activity still need to be investigated. Accordingly, the present study presents the chemical profiling of this species using the LC-HRMS/MS technique followed by a study of the ligand-protein interaction using the molecular docking method. LC-HRMS/MS results detected twenty-seven compounds in A. alopecuroides extract (AAE) belonging to variable chemical classes. Among the detected compounds, alkaloids, flavonoids, lignans, and iridoids were the most prevailing. In order to highlight the bioactive compounds in AAE, the molecular docking technique was adopted. Results suggested that the two alkaloids (Eburnamonine and Isochondrodendrine) as well as the four flavonoids (Narirutin, Pelargonidin 3-O-rutinoside, Sophora isoflavanone A, and Dracorubin) were responsible for the observed antidiabetic activity. It is worth mentioning that this is the first report for the metabolomic profiling of A. alopecuroides as well as the antidiabetic potential of Isochondrodendrine, Sophora isoflavanone A, and Dracorubin that could be a promising target for an antidiabetic drug.

Amelioration of hyperglycemia and hyperlipidemia in a high-fat diet-fed mice by supplementation of a developed optimized polyherbal formulation

This study evaluated in vivo anti-diabetic and anti-obesity activity of a polyherbal formulation's methanolic extract containing an optimized ratio of edible seeds (Salvia hispanica, Chenopodium quinoa, Nelumbo nucifera). Diet-induced obese mice model (C57BL/6) was developed by feeding the mice a high-fat diet for 10 weeks resulting in hyperglycemia and obesity. Different doses (125, 250 and 500 mg/kg of body weight) of formulation were administered orally daily for 6 weeks. Fasting blood glucose and body weight were monitored throughout the study. At the end of the study, serum parameters were analyzed and histological examinations were performed. There was a significant reduction in fasting blood glucose levels and body weight in animal groups receiving polyherbal formulation. Lipid profile was improved as revealed by a reduction in serum triglycerides and total cholesterol. Histological study showed an improvement in liver, kidney and pancreatic sections of treated mice. High-performance thin layer chromatography was performed to identify the phytochemicals responsible for the above-mentioned bioactivities. The results revealed the presence of flavonoid (rutin) in seeds of N.nucifera and in the polyherbal formulation. For the first time, this study demonstrated the anti-diabetic and anti-obesity potential of the optimized formulation. The formulation can be used as a potential therapy for management of diabesity.

Antidiarrheal and Antibacterial Activities of Calpurnia aurea: Benth Seed Different Extracts

Background

Calpurnia aurea is believed to have antidiarrheal potential but with limited scientific evidence. This study aimed investigating antidiarrheal and antibacterial activity of aqueous and 80% methanol seed extracts of the plant in mice and selected diarrhea-causing bacterial strains, respectively.

Methods

Castor oil-induced diarrhea, prostaglandin-induced enteropooling, and castor oil-induced charcoal meal test models in mice of either sex using three dose levels (60, 120, and 240 mg/kg) were applied to evaluate antidiarrheal activity. Parameters, including onset, number, wet stool weight, weight and volume of secretion, and intestinal motility, were taken into consideration. The antibacterial activity was assessed on Shigella soni, Salmonella typhimurium, Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa using disk diffusion and microdilution techniques.

Results

Compared to controls, pretreatment of mice at the graded dose (60, 120, and 240 mg/kg) resulted in a significant (p < 0.05) drop in frequency of wet stools and watery content of diarrhea as well as in delaying onset of diarrhea. Both extracts exhibited inhibition of diarrhea in a dose-dependent manner in all models used. The extracts also showed significant (p < 0.05) reduction in intestinal motility in castor oil-induced models. Both extracts showed a marginal activity against the selected bacterial strains; a better effect was seen with 80% methanol seed extract.

Conclusion

Both extracts of the plant have beneficial effect in controlling diarrhea. This finding supports the use of the plant as a traditional antidiarrheal remedy.

In Vitro and In Vivo Antidiabetic Activity, Phenolic Content and Microscopical Characterization of Terfezia claveryi

Terfezia claveryi (T. claveryi) is used by traditional healers in the Middle East region to treat several diseases, including diabetes. The present study evaluated the total phenolic and investigated the blood-glucose-lowering potential of different aqueous extracts of this selected truffle using in vitro and in vivo models. The phytochemical profile was examined using UPLC-MS. The macerate and the microwave-assisted extract were the richest in phenolic compounds. All T. claveryi extracts exhibited a remarkable α-glucosidase inhibitory effect in vitro, with an IC50 of 2.43, 3.26, 5.18 and 3.31 mg/mL for the aqueous microwave-assisted extract macerate, infusion and decoction, respectively. On the other hand, in the high-fat diet alloxan-induced diabetic mice model, all tested crude aqueous extracts exhibited a significant antihyperglycemic activity (p < 0.05). Four hours after the administration of the 250 mg/kg dose, the macerate was able to induce a 29.4% blood-glucose-lowering effect compared to a 24.8% reduction induced by the infusion, which was sustained for a further two hours. The hypoglycemic effect (29.3% and 32.4%) was also recorded six hours after the administration of the single dose 500 mg/kg of the macerate and the infusion, respectively. Truffle extracts exhibited antidiabetic activity both in vitro and in vivo, providing a rationale for the traditional use as a natural hypoglycemic.

Evaluation of Antidiabetic and Antihyperlipidemic Activity of 80% Methanolic Extract of the Root of Solanum incanum Linnaeus (Solanaceae) in Mice

Background

Conventional antidiabetic drugs are linked with a number of contraindications and untoward effects. The root decoction of Solanum incanum L. has traditionally been used to treat diabetes. However, its safety and efficacy have not been scientifically authenticated yet. Hence, the study was conducted in mice to corroborate its antidiabetic potential and safety profile.

Methods

Using normoglycemic, oral glucose-loaded, and streptozotocin-induced diabetic mice models, the hypoglycemic and antihyperglycemic activities of 80% methanolic root extract were investigated. On streptozotocin-induced diabetic mice, the effect of the test extract on diabetic lipid profile and body weight was also investigated. Further, the in vitro α-amylase inhibition activity was assessed.

Results

The test extract was safe at a limit test dose of 2 g/kg. Dose-dependent α-amylase inhibition activity was seen with peak percentage inhibition of 75.95% at 700 μg/mL. In normoglycemic mice, the plant extract showed statistically significant hypoglycemic activity at 200 and 400 mg/kg (P < 0.001) at 6  h and 4 and 6 h of treatment, respectively; in oral glucose-loaded mice, at both the test doses, the glucose level was also significantly dropped at 120 (P < 0.01) and 60 and 120 min (P < 0.001), respectively; whereas, in the third model, the test extract showed significant antihyperglycemic activity at 100 mg/kg (P < 0.05) on the 14^th day and at 200 (P < 0.01) and 400 mg/kg (P < 0.001) on the 7^th and 14^th day of treatment. Similarly, following repeated administration of the test extract at 200 and 400 mg/kg, the body weight was significantly improved on the 14^th day (P < 0.05) and on the 7^th and 14^th day (P < 0.01), respectively, while diabetic dyslipidemia after 14 days (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

The study revealed that the test extract showed promising antihyperglycemic and antihyperlipidemic activity. Thus, the findings back up its use in Ethiopian remedies for diabetes.

Hypoglycemic, Antihyperglycemic, and Toxic Effects of Physalis peruviana L. Aqueous and Methanolic Leaf Extracts in Wistar Rats

Background

Physalis peruviana L. (Solanaceae) is a plant widely used in traditional medicine systems to manage various diseases, including diabetes mellitus, which remains a global health problem in developing and developed countries. This study aimed to scientifically evaluate its antidiabetic bioactivity and short-term toxicity in rats.

Methods

We prepared various doses (100, 200, 400 mg/kg) of aqueous and methanolic leaf extracts for the antidiabetic study, and a dose of 2000 mg/Kg was prepared for the acute toxicity test. The first group that evaluated the hypoglycemic effect consisted of forty normoglycemic Wistar rats aged 7–8 months old with a weighted average of 265.8 ± 24.6 g. The second group consisted of intraperitoneal glucose-loaded male animals to evaluate the antihyperglycemic effect. The third group contained two groups of normoglycemic female rats (n = 3), aged 3 and 4 months old (weight average: 187.45 ± 14.82 g), treated for 14 days with aqueous and methanolic extracts (2 g/kg b.w) to assess mortality and toxic effects. Blood samples were taken at 30, 60, 90, and 120 min post-treatment in hypoglycemic and antihyperglycemic evaluations. Glibenclamide (5 mg/kg) was used as a reference drug. The control animals in each group did not receive the extracts.

Results

In hypoglycemic rats, 100 mg/kg of aqueous and methanolic extracts significantly lowered the fasting blood glucose level by 13.92% (p < 0.0001) and 21.95% (p < 0.01), respectively, compared to the control group. In glucose tolerance test group, methanolic extracts significantly reduced hyperglycemia by 54.55% (p < 0.0001), 46.50% (p < 0.0001), 39.78% (p < 0.0001) at 400, 200 and 100 mg/kg b.w, respectively, compared to control; aqueous extract 400 mg/kg reduced hyperglycemia by 39.44% (p < 0.05). At the 2000 mg/kg dose, leaf aqueous and methanolic extracts did not show any signs of intoxication and mortality.

Conclusion

Crude aqueous and methanolic leaf extracts of P. peruviana ambrosioides appeared safe at 2000 mg/kg and have bioactivity in controlling the blood glucose levels, supporting their use in treating diabetes.

Effects of the Oral Administration of Aqueous and Methanolic Leaf Extracts of Chenopodium ambrosioides L. (Amaranthaceae) on Blood Glucose Levels in Wistar Rats

Background

Diabetes mellitus is a metabolic disorder that poses a major global health threat. The current diabetes mellitus uses insulin and oral hypoglycemic agents, which have limitations, including adverse effects and secondary failures. Herbal medicine is being evaluated for its role in the pharmacotherapy of diabetes. This study was aimed to assess the anti-diabetic potential and short-term toxicity level of Chenopodium ambrosioides collected from Bukavu in Democratic Republic of Congo.

Methods

Leaves of C. ambrosioides were extracted by infusion and maceration with distilled water and 95% methanol, respectively. Hypoglycemic and antihyperglycemic potentials of the aqueous and methanolic were investigated in normoglycemic and intraperitoneal glucose-loaded rats at 100, 200, and 400 mg/kg body weight. An oral acute toxicity test was carried out on healthy female Wistar rats.

Results

Acute toxicity test showed the mean lethal dose (LD₅₀) for both aqueous and methanol extracts of C. ambrosioides to be more than 2000 mg/kg. The group treated with glibenclamide (5 mg/kg b.w) and aqueous extract of the plant (200 mg/kg b.w) showed a significant reduction (p< 0.0001 and p< 0.05) of fasting blood glucose by 46.91% and 16.72%, respectively, compared to control and all other treatment groups. In acute conditions, a single oral administration of the aqueous and methanolic extracts lowered fasting blood glucose in rats. Any manifestation and signs of toxicity and mortality have been recorded for 14 days of observation.

Conclusion

Leaf aqueous and methanolic extracts of C. ambrosioides appeared safe at 2000 mg/kg. The plant demonstrated some anti-diabetic potential in rats, explaining its use as an anti-diabetic remedy locally.

Pharmacological evaluation of medicinal plants with antidiabetic activities in Ethiopia: A review

Diabetes mellitus is a serious, chronic disease that occurs either when the pancreas does not produce enough insulin, or when the body can't effectively use insulin. Herbal medicines have been commonly used by diabetic patients for the treatment of diabetes mellitus. To include findings from different studies, publications related to in vivo and invitro antidiabetic activities of medicinal plants in Ethiopia were searched from different databases, such as Web of Science, Google Scholar, Medline, Scopus, and PubMed, using English key terms. Different medicinal plant parts were used experimentally for antidiabetic effects in Ethiopia. Among these, leaves (69%) were the most commonly investigated medicinal plant parts followed by roots (14%) and seeds (7%). Most of the investigations were completed with hydro-methanolic extracts to obtain a higher percentage of yield. Medicinal plants such as Thymus schemperi R, Thymus vulgaris L, Hagenia abyssinica, Aloe megalacantha baker, Aloe moticola Reyonolds, Aloe pulecherrima Gilbert & sebseb, Bersama abyssinica fresen, and Rubus Erlangeri Engl have shown in vitro α-amylase inhibitory activity. However, only Hagenia abyssinica, Thymus schemperi R, and Thymus vulgaris L have exhibited α-glucosidase inhibitory activity. Likewise, only the extract of Aloe pulecherrima Gilbert & sebseb posses’ maltase and sucrose inhibitory activity. In vivo antidiabetic activity were conducted for the extract of medicinal plants such as A. remota, S. rebaudiani, T. schemperi, T. vulgaris, H. abyssinica, C. aurea, D. stramonium, A. megalacantha, A. moticola, A.integrifolia, A. pulecherrima, B. grandiflorum, B. abyssinica, P. schimperiana, M. stenopetala, C. aure, J. schimperiana, T. brownie, C. macrostachys, I. spicata, O. integrifolia, C. abyssinica, R. Erlangeri, L. culinaris, A. camperi, A. polystachyus, A. ilicifalius, C. tomentosa, and C. Edulis. This review gives collective evidence on the potential antidiabetic activities of medicinal plants in Ethiopia. Moreover, further studies are recommended to substantiate the use of these medicinal plants as an antidiabetic agent.

Antidiabetic Activity of Hydromethanolic Extract of Crude Dorstenia barnimiana Root: Validation of In Vitro and In Vivo Antidiabetic and Antidyslipidemic Activity

Background

Despite modern therapeutic armamentaria, DM remains a 21st-century public health menace. Novel phytomedicines are a rapidly expanding focus of research. The juice of Dorstenia barnimiana roots has long been used for the treatment of diabetes mellitus in traditional Ethiopian medicine, but its efficacy has not been supported by in vitro or in vivo scientific study. To investigate this, the present work was performed.

Methods

In this experimental study, simple random sampling was applied. Healthy male mice were used in normoglycemic and oral glucose-tolerance test (OGTT) models. Streptozotocin (IP, 150 mg/kg)–administered diabetic male mice were utilized. Animals were randomly divided into five groups of six each. Group I received 10 mL/kg distilled water, groups II–IV received 100 (DB100), 200 (DB200), and 400 (DB400) mg/kg crude extract, respectively, and group V received glibenclamide 5 mg/kg. A sham group (group VI) was added that received 10 mL/kg distilled water. All treatments were given orally. FBG, serum-lipid profiles, and body-weight changes were then measured. In vitro α-amylase inhibitory activity was also evaluated.

Results

The doses were atoxic up to 2,000 mg/kg. There was α-amylase inhibition activity of 67.52% at 500 μg/mL with an IC₅₀ of 4.595 μg/mL. The OGTT revealed an antihyperglycemic effect of the crude extract. This was not attributed to a hypoglycemic side effect. In the diabetic mouse model, it shrank FBG levels remarkably. There were also significant reductions in serum TC, TGs, VLDL-C, and LDL-C. Nevertheless, HDL-C and body-weight levels returned.

Conclusion

The present study confirmed the safety and promising in vivo antidiabetic and antidyslipidemic activity of D. barnimiana, thus corroborating the traditional claim.

The Glycemic Control Potential of Some Amaranthaceae Plants, with Particular Reference to In Vivo Antidiabetic Potential of Agathophora alopecuroides

Natural products continue to provide inspiring moieties for the treatment of various diseases. In this regard, investigation of wild plants, which have not been previously explored, is a promising strategy for reaching medicinally useful drugs. The present study aims to investigate the antidiabetic potential of nine Amaranthaceae plants: Agathophora alopecuroides, Anabasis lachnantha, Atriplex leucoclada, Cornulaca aucheri, Halothamnus bottae, Halothamnus iraqensis, Salicornia persia, Salsola arabica, and Salsola villosa, growing in the Qassim area, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The antidiabetic activity of the hydroalcoholic extracts was assessed using in vitro testing of α-glucosidase and α-amylase inhibitory effects. Among the nine tested extracts, A. alopecuroides extract (AAE) displayed potent inhibitory activity against α-glucosidase enzyme with IC₅₀ 117.9 µg/mL noting better activity than Acarbose (IC₅₀ 191.4 µg/mL). Furthermore, AAE displayed the highest α- amylase inhibitory activity among the nine tested extracts, with IC₅₀ 90.9 µg/mL. Based upon in vitro testing results, the antidiabetic activity of the two doses (100 and 200 mg/kg) of AAE was studied in normoglycemic and streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic mice. The effects of the extract on body weight, food and water intakes, random blood glucose level (RBGL), fasting blood glucose level (FBGL), insulin, total cholesterol, and triglycerides levels were investigated. Results indicated that oral administration of the two doses of AAE showed a significant dose-dependent increase (p < 0.05) in the body weight and serum insulin level, as well as a significant decrease in food and water intake, RBGL, FBGL, total cholesterol, and triglyceride levels, in STZ-induced diabetic mice, compared with the diabetic control group. Meanwhile, no significant differences of both extract doses were observed in normoglycemic mice when compared with normal control animals. This study revealed a promising antidiabetic activity of the wild plant A. alopecuroides.

Characterization of Possible α-Glucosidase Inhibitors from Trigonella stellata Extract Using LC-MS and In Silico Molecular Docking

The current study accentuates the significance of performing the multiplex approach of LC-HRESIMS, biological activity, and docking studies in drug discovery, taking into consideration a review of the literature. In this regard, the investigation of antioxidant and cytotoxic activities of Trigonella stellata collected from the Egyptian desert revealed a significant antioxidant capacity using DPPH with IC₅₀ = 656.9 µg/mL and a moderate cytotoxicity against HepG2, MCF7, and CACO2, with IC₅₀ values of 53.3, 48.3, and 55.8 µg/mL, respectively. The evaluation of total phenolic and flavonoid contents resulted in 32.8 mg GAE/g calculated as gallic acid equivalent and 5.6 mg RE/g calculated as rutin equivalent, respectively. Chemical profiling of T. stellata extract, using LC-HRESIMS analysis, revealed the presence of 15 metabolites, among which eleven compounds were detected for the first time in this species. Interestingly, in vitro testing of the antidiabetic activity of the alcoholic extract noted an α-glucosidase enzyme inhibitory activity (IC₅₀ = 559.4 µg/mL) better than that of the standard Acarbose (IC₅₀ = 799.9 µg/mL), in addition to a moderate inhibition of the α-amylase enzyme (IC₅₀ = 0.77 µg/mL) compared to Acarbose (IC₅₀ = 0.21 µg/mL). α-Glucosidase inhibition was also virtualized by binding interactions through the molecular docking study, presenting a high binding activity of six flavonoid glycosides, as well as the diterpenoid compound graecumoside A and the alkaloid fenugreekine. Taken together, the conglomeration of LC-HRESIMS, antidiabetic activity, and molecular docking studies shed light on T. stellata as a promising antidiabetic herb.

Evaluation of Antidiabetic Activity of Sargassum tenerrimum in Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Mice

Diabetes mellitus has become the most predominant disease in most of the developing and developed countries. Diabetes could occur at any stage of life for which a change in sedentary life style is the possible solution. Despite the introduction of several medications, to curtail the side effects associated with diabetes mellitus, there is no medication or treatment for complete cure. Existing medications and treatments are targeted to mitigate the intensity of the disease which abruptly could result in organ failure. Rather than the available types of treatments, natural medication is reported to produce commendable results. Extracts of many medicinal plants and seaweeds have been documented to possess anti-diabetic properties. A brown alga, S. tenerrimum, found on the west coast of India, is chosen in this study to analyse the anti-diabetic property of its methanolic extract. This extract was used to treat streptozotocin-induced diabetic mice. An experimental design was framed based on acute toxicity studies to determine the change in blood glucose level, body weight, lipid profile, liver enzymes (SGPT and SGOT) and the renal function markers (urea and creatinine). After 15 days of treatment, an increase in body weight and HDL cholesterol was observed while the total cholesterol, VLDL, LDL, serum triglyceride, SGOT, SGPT, creatinine and urea decreased with 250 mg/Kg.bw of S. tenerrimum methanolic extract in Streptozotocin-induced diabetic mice group. This difference is significant (p<0.05) when compared with a healthy non-diabetic mice group and a treated diabetic mice group. This proves that the methanolic extract of S. tenerrimum possess anti-diabetic property. Further research could explore the active compounds that can be used in the formulation of herbal medicine for diabetes mellitus.

An evaluation of pharmacological healing potentialities of Terminalia Arjuna against several ailments on experimental rat models with an in-silico approach

Herbal remedies have been used in many cultures for decades to treat illnesses. These medicinal plants have been found to contain various phytochemical compounds that can help to cure mild to severe illnesses. The inadequacies of conventional medicines and their unusual side effects sparked a determined search for alternative natural therapeutic agents. Another reason for this hunt could be the availability and fewer side effects of natural products. T. arjuna is widely used in traditional medicine to alleviate various diseases like relieving pain, ameliorating diabetes, mitigating inflammation, and back-pedaling of depression. In this study, the ethanolic extract of T. arjuna possesses a promising effect on the animal model (p < 0.05/p < 0.01) as an antihyperglycemic, analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and antidepressant agent, but in a dose-dependent manner. The lower dose of T. arjuna was found to be capable of reversing the disturbed physiological state at a significant level (p < 0.05). However, a higher dose of T. arjuna exerts better therapeutic effects for those diseases. This animal study aims to evaluate the anti-diabetic, anti-depressant, and anti-inflammatory properties of T. arjuna compared to conventional marketed drugs. We will perform an in-silico study for active constituents of T. arjuna against their proposed targets and look for the molecular cascade on their claimed pharmacological properties. This study shows that different doses of T. arjuna bark extracts give similar therapeutic responses compared with established marketed drugs in managing hyperglycemia, stress-induced depression, and inflammation. Besides, our docking study reveals that flavonoids and triterpenoid active constituents of T. arjuna play an important role in its usefulness. This study, therefore, scientifically confirmed the traditional use of this medicinal plant in the management of several diseased conditions.

In vivo hypoglycemic, antihyperglycemic and antidyslipidemic effects of the solvent fractions of Hagenia abyssinica leaves in mice

Background

Hagenia abyssinica leaves have been used traditionally for the management of different diseases including diabetes mellitus (DM) although the antidiabetic effect of different solvent fractions of hydromethanol H. abyssinica leaf extract has not been scientifically studied. Thus, this study was conducted to investigate the in vivo hypoglycemic, antihyperglycemic and antidyslipidemic effects of the solvent fractions of Hagenia abyssinica leaf extract.

Methods

The antidiabetic effect of the solvent fractions was evaluated in normal, oral glucose loaded and streptozotocin-induced diabetic mice. Hypoglycemic, antihyperglycemic, antidyslipidemic activities and effect on body weight change were evaluated after administration of three different doses of the solvent fractions (100, 200, and 400 mg/kg). One-way ANOVA followed by Tukey's post hoc test was used for data analysis, and p<0.05 was considered as statistically significant.

Results

The crude hydromethanol extract of H. abyssinica leaves did not show any sign of toxicity at the dose of 2000 mg/kg in mice. In normoglycemic mice, both aqueous and ethyl acetate fractions of H. abyssinica leaves showed significant (P<0.05) hypoglycemic activity. In oral glucose loaded mice, the two doses of the aqueous fraction, 200 mg/kg (p<0.05) and 400 mg/kg (p<0.001), showed a significant antihyperglycemic effect at 60 and 120 minute post-oral glucose loading while the ethyl acetate fraction showed significant antihyperglycemic effect at 60 (P<0.05 for 200 mg/kg and P<0.001 for 400 mg/kg) and 120 min (P<0.01 for 400 mg/kg) post-oral glucose loading. In single dose-treated diabetic mice, all doses of the solvent fractions caused a significant (P<0.05) reduction in blood glucose level except 100 mg/kg of the aqueous and chloroform fractions. Additionally, repeated daily treatment with the aqueous fraction significantly reduced hyperglycemia, body weight loss, and improved dyslipidemia of diabetic mice.

Conclusion

This study has revealed that the solvent fractions of H. abyssinica leaves possess in vivo blood-glucose-lowering activities on normal, oral glucose loaded, and streptozotocin-induced diabetic mice. Additionally, the aqueous fraction prevented diabetic body weight loss and dyslipidemia in mice after repeated daily dose administration.

Medicinal Plant Extracts Evaluated In Vitro and In Vivo for Antidiabetic Activities in Ethiopia: Bases for Future Clinical Trials and Related Investigations

Background

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a metabolic disorder characterized by a persistent rise in the blood glucose level resulting from defects in cellular insulin function, secretion, or both, which affects millions of people every year. Several drawbacks have been stated with the use of marketed antidiabetic medicines such as drug resistance, adverse effects, toxicities, and even costs. Due to these several limitations, searching for novel antidiabetic medicines from medicinal plants (MPs) is becoming an active area of research. Therefore, MPs are exemplary sources of medicines with many accessible agents being obtained from them because numerous active constituents are isolated from them for direct use as pharmacological medicines or act as lead compounds. This paper was aimed to synthesize a concluding remark using in vitro and in vivo evaluations of extracts and fractions for antidiabetic potentials in Ethiopia, which can be used to direct future clinical trials and related investigations.

Method

So as to get data on the different investigations, publications related to experimental evaluations on animal diabetic models in Ethiopia were searched from databases, such as Google Scholar, Web of Science, Medline, PubMed, and Scopus using English key terms.

Results

In this paper, about 37 research findings based on data from various areas of Ethiopia published until the end of November 2020 were included. A total of 37 MP species extracts and fractions belonging to 19 families have been revealed in vitro or in vivo for potential antidiabetic activities. Crude extracts were carried out mostly by hydromethanolic whereas fractions were done mostly by chloroform. Leaves were the most commonly experimentally investigated plant part. Among the MP species experimentally studied, the most frequently used to treat DM in Ethiopia were Thymus schimperi Ronniger (Lamiaceae), Moringa stenopetala (Baker f.; Moringaceae), Ajuga remota Benth (Lamiaceae), and Datura stramonium Linn. (Solanaceae).

Conclusion

This paper gives aggregate evidences on the potential antidiabetic activities of MPs in Ethiopia. Antidiabetic MPs used in Ethiopia represent crucial input for the future development of novel antidiabetic drugs. To this end, more pharmacological and toxicological investigations need to be considered to prove the safety of constituents obtained from these MPs. Finally, we recommend upcoming research to ensure future success in the clinical study and development of novel medicines for DM treatment from these frequently evaluated MPs.

Effect of Crude Leaves Extract of Bersama Abyssinica on Blood Glucose Level and Serum Lipid Level of Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Mice: Evidence for In vivo Antidiabetic Activity

BACKGROUND

Diabetes mellitus is one of the major and common metabolic, and chronic disorders in the world. Several medicinal plants have been used globally for the management of diabetes mellitus. The current study aimed to study the anti-hyperglycemic and anti-hyperlipidemic effects of Bersama abyssinica.

METHODS

Antidiabetic effect of 80% methanolic crude extract of Bersama abyssinica was studied in repeated dose-treated STZ-induced diabetic mice model. The activities of Bersama abyssinica on serum lipid level and body weight were investigated on STZ-induced diabetic mice. Data were analyzed using one-way ANOVA and significant when the p-value was less than 0.05.

RESULTS

All doses of the crude 80% methanolic extract of Bersama abyssinica (100 mg/kg, 200 mg/kg, and 400 mg/kg) exhibited a noticeable BGL reduction when compared with baseline blood glucose level and diabetic control on the 7th and 14th days of administration. Moreover, the higher dose of the extract (at 400 mg/kg) significantly (p < 0.001, 54.3%) decreased the BGL in STZ-induced diabetic mice. The maximum decrement in fasting BGL was achieved at the 14th days: 34.92%, 41.10%, 54.30%, and 59.66%, respectively for BAC 100 mg/kg, BAC 200 mg/kg, BAC 400 mg/kg, and GLC 5 mg/kg treated groups. Bersama abyssinica also displayed a significant (p < 0.05) improvement of serum lipid levels and body weight.

CONCLUSION

Bersama abyssinica crude extract exhibited a significant antidiabetic effect and prevented body weight loss in streptozotocin-induced diabetic mice. The finding also confirmed the valuable biochemical activity of Bersama abyssinica by improving serum lipid levels.

Glycemic Control Potential of Chemically Characterized Extract from Withania frutescens L. Roots in Severe Diabetes-Induced Mice

Diabetes mellitus is a metabolic syndrome that causes impairment, mortality, and many other complications. Insulin and several synthetic medications are currently used in the treatment of diabetes. However, these pharmaceutical drugs are costly, and therefore medicines place priority on alternatives to fight this lethal disease. This modest study aims to investigate the chemical composition, antidiabetic and antihyperglycemic potentials along with subacute toxicity (bodyweight change and biochemical parameters) of hydroethanol extract from Withania frutescens L. roots (WFRE). The chemical analysis was carried out using GC–MS after extract silylation. The chemical analysis identified many potentially active compounds that may determine the antidiabetic results of WFRE. The antidiabetic effect of WFRE was evaluated in mice with severe diabetes using oral administration of doses up to 400 mg/kg for 28 days. The results of the antidiabetic and antihyperglycemic tests indicate that WFRE possesses promising glucose-lowering effects and, as a result, it may serve as an antidiabetic alternative for long-term use. The 4-week treatments with different doses of plant extract did not alter the bodyweight appearance of the diabetic mice nor their biochemical parameters (AST and ALT). The findings obtained indicate that the studied plant extract controlled severe diabetes in mice. Therefore, Withania frutescens L. can serve society as it provides natural agents to control diabetes.

Efficacy, safety and phytochemistry of medicinal plants used for the management of diabetes mellitus in Ethiopia: a systematic review

Background

Despite tremendous developments in synthetic medicine, medicinal plants are still commonly used for the management of diabetes mellitus. This study synthesized scientific evidence on commonly used medicinal plants for the management of diabetes mellitus (DM) in Ethiopia.

Methods

Databases (PubMed, Cochrane, CINAHL and Google Scholar) have been thoroughly sought and evidence was synthesized.

Results

Thirty studies conducted anti-diabetic activities studies on 19 medicinal plants in Ethiopia. Most of the studies were in vivo studies (25). Others include; clinical study (1), in vitro studies (2), and both in vivo and in vitro study (2). Trigonella foenum-graecum L., clinical study, showed an improved lipid profile in type II diabetic patients. Comparable blood sugar level (BSL) lowering effect to glibenclimide was observed with Persea Americana and Moringa stenopetala. Noteworthy in vitro half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC 50) of Aloe megalacantha B and Aloe monticola R were observed. Animal model studies demonstrated the relative safety of the plants extract and phytochemistry studies showed various components.

Conclusion

Medicinal plants used for management of diabetes mellitus in Ethiopia are worthy for further study for pharmacologically active ingredients and clinical evaluation.

Evaluation of Antidiabetic Activity of Ajuga integrifolia (Lamiaceae) Root Extract and Solvent Fractions in Mice

Traditional healers and the community have used the roots of Ajuga integrifolia for the treatment of diabetes mellitus. It is not scientifically validated for its antidiabetic activity previously. Therefore, the objective of the present study was to determine the hypoglycemic and antidiabetic activity of Ajuga integrifolia. Ajuga integrifolia roots' crude extract and solvent fractions were prepared. The doses of 100 mg/kg, 200 mg/kg, and 400 mg/kg of crude root extract and solvent fractions were used on normoglycemic, oral glucose loaded, and streptozotocin-induced diabetic mice models to determine their hypoglycemic and antihyperglycemic activities. The crude extract and solvent fractions' effect on bodyweight was also evaluated on streptozotocin-induced diabetic mice. A standard drug in all cases was glibenclamide (5 mg/kg), and the blood glucose level was measured by using a glucose meter. Data analysis was performed by using Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 21. One-way analysis of variance followed by Tukey's post hoc multiple comparison test was used to analyze the data. p value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Hydromethanolic crude extract and its aqueous fraction of Ajuga integrifolia root showed a considerable blood glucose lowering activity at all doses. Both the repeated daily doses of the crude extract and the repeated daily doses of the aqueous fraction of Ajuga integrifolia root extract revealed the similar effect in lowering the fasting blood glucose level in streptozotocin-induced diabetic mice models. It was also found that groups treated with the Ajuga integrifolia at the doses of 200 mg/kg and 400 mg/kg showed significant (p < 0.05) bodyweight improvement at the 14^th day of treatment compared to the respective baseline bodyweight, and the diabetic control group showed significant (p < 0.01) reduction in bodyweight at the 14^th day compared to the baseline. This study revealed that crude extract and solvent fractions of Ajuga integrifolia root possess significant antidiabetic activity which supports its traditional use for the treatment of diabetes mellitus.

Evaluation of in vitro and in vivo Anti-Diabetic, Anti-Hyperlipidemic and Anti-Oxidant Activity of Flower Crude Extract and Solvent Fractions of Hagenia Abyssinica (Rosaceae)

BACKGROUND

The flower of Hagenia abyssinica (Rosaceae) has been used in traditional health systems to treat diabetes mellitus in Ethiopia and Tanzania. However, the antidiabetic activity of this medicinal plant is not scientifically validated and authenticated. The present study aimed to investigate the in vitro and in vivo anti-diabetic activity of flower crude extract and solvent fractions of Hagenia abyssinica.

METHODS

The in vitro α-amylase inhibition and antioxidant activity of the crude extract and solvent fractions of Hagenia abyssinica were evaluated by using 3,5-dinitrosalicylic acid (DNSA) and diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assay model, respectively. Blood glucose lowering activity of 80% methanolic flower crude extract and solvent fraction was studied in four animal models: normoglycemic mice model, oral glucose loaded mice model, single dose-treated streptozotocin-induced diabetic mice model, and repeated dose-treated streptozotocin-induced diabetic mice model. The effect of the crude extract and solvent fraction of Hagenia abyssinica on diabetic lipid profile and body weight was also studied.

RESULTS

The acute toxicity study of Hagenia abyssinica flower extract did not show mortality in the animals at the limit dose of 2g/kg during the observation period. The result of α-amylase enzyme inhibition activity was found in a dose-dependent manner, the strongest activity was shown by ethyl acetate fraction (54.23% inhibition at 800 μg/mL) compared to the standard acarbose having 91.87% inhibition at 800 μg/mL. Among these extracts, the crude extract had the highest antioxidant activity (58.38% inhibition at 500 μg/mL). The crude extract of H. abyssinica showed significant blood glucose-lowering effect on normoglycemic mice and oral glucose loaded mice. In streptozotocin-induced diabetic mice model, the crude extract and ethyl acetate fraction significantly decreased the fasting blood glucose level after 14 days of treatment. There were significant reductions in serum total cholesterol, serum triglycerides, very low-density lipoprotein, and low-density lipoprotein. However, there were significant increments in body weight and high-density lipoprotein as compared to untreated diabetic mice.

CONCLUSION

The result demonstrated the beneficial biochemical effects of Hagenia abyssinica extract by inhibiting α-amylase, scavenging diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and improving serum lipid profile levels. The flower crude extract and solvent fractions of Hagenia abyssinica are effective in lowering blood glucose levels in diabetic and normoglycemic mice. The claimed traditional use as antidiabetic has scientific ground.