Antidiabetic activity of Ficus amplissima Smith. bark extract in streptozotocin induced diabetic rats

Ethnopharmacological relevance

Ficus amplissima commonly known as kal-itchchi have a long history of use in Ayurveda, Siddha and Unani herbal preparations in Indian traditional system of medicine. It has been used in folklore medicine for the treatment of diabetes.

Aim

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of methanolic extract of the bark of Ficus amplissima (FAB) in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats.

Materials and methods

Oral administration of FAB bark at the doses of 50 mg/kg, 100 mg/kg and 150 mg/kg was studied in normal, glucose-loaded and STZ—induced diabetic rats.

Results

The three doses caused significant reduction in blood glucose levels in all the models. The effect was more pronounced in 50 mg/kg and 100 mg/kg than 150 mg/kg. FAB also showed significant increase in serum insulin and body weight. The glycogen content in liver, skeletal muscle, total protein contents were markedly increased and marker enzymes of hepatic function of STZ-induced diabetic rats while there was significant reduction in the levels of serum triglyceride and total cholesterol. FAB also showed significant anti-lipid peroxidative effect in the pancreas of STZ-induced diabetic rats. The anti-diabetic effect of FAB was compared with glibenclamide, a well known hypoglycemic drug. Histological analysis showed the regenerative effect of FAB on the β-cells of diabetic rats.

Conclusion

Results of this experimental study indicated that FAB possessed anti-diabetic and antioxidant activities. Hence it could be used as a natural source of antidiabetic (Type-I) and antioxidant drug.     

Anticonvulsant activity of aqueous root extract of Ficus religiosa

Ethnopharmacological relevance

Ficus religiosa Linn is frequently used for the treatment of nervous disorders among Pawara tribe of the Satpuda range, India.

Aim of the study

This study aimed to investigate the anticonvulsant activity of the aqueous aerial root extract of Ficus religiosa in chemoconvulsant-induced seizures in mice.

Materials and methods

The anticonvulsant activity of the extract (25, 50 and 100 mg/kg, p.o.) was investigated in strychnine-, pentylenetetrazole-, picrotoxin- and isoniazid-induced seizures in mice. Rat ileum and fundus strip preparations were used to study the effect of the extract on acetylcholine (Ach)- and serotonin (5-HT)-induced contractions, respectively.

Results

The extract showed no toxicity and protected the animals in the strychnine and pentylenetetrazole tests in a dose-dependent manner. Its effect in the picrotoxin and isoniazid tests, however, was less potent. The extract also exhibited dose-dependent potentiation of Ach in rat ileum but failed to potentiate the effect of 5-HT in rat fundus strip preparation.

Conclusions

The results suggest that an orally administered aqueous root extract of Ficus religiosa has dose-dependent and potent anticonvulsant activities against strychnine- and pentylenetetrazole-induced seizures. The observed activities may be ascribed to the appreciable content of zinc and magnesium in the extract.     

Anticonvulsant effect of Ficus religiosa: Role of serotonergic pathways

Ethnopharmacological relevance

Ficus religiosa (Moraceae) is reported to have numerous therapeutic utility in folk medicine. Among different biological activities on central nervous system, it has been reported to be used in ethnomedical treatment of epilepsy, which led us to further explore its anticonvulsant activity in various animal models of epilepsy.

Aim of the study

To investigate anticonvulsant activity of methanolic extract of figs of Ficus religiosa in animal models and to determine its possible anticonvulsant mechanism.

Materials and methods

Anticonvulsant activity of figs extract (25, 50 and 100 mg/kg, i.p.) was studied in seizures induced by maximum electroshock (MES), picrotoxin and pentylenetetrazol (PTZ). Cyproheptadine, a nonselective (5HT_1/2) serotonin antagonist (4 mg/kg, i.p.) was used to study the reversal of protective effect of extract in the above mentioned models. Acute toxicity, neurotoxicity and potentiation of pentobarbitone induced sleep by extract was also studied.

Results

Extract showed no toxicity, potentiated pentobarbitone induced sleep and inhibited seizures induced by MES and picrotoxin in a dose dependent manner. Anticonvulsant effect of extract was comparable to clinically used antiepileptic drugs (phenytoin and diazepam). However, PTZ induced seizures were not inhibited. Animals pretreated with cyproheptadine showed inhibition of the anticonvulsant effect of extract.

Conclusions

These findings suggested that the methanolic extract of figs of Ficus religiosa had anticonvulsant activity against MES and picrotoxin induced convulsions, with no neurotoxic effect, in a dose dependent manner. Inhibition of the anticonvulsant effect of extract by cyproheptadine substantiates the involvement of serotonergic pathways for the anticonvulsant activity of extract.     

Antidiabetic and antioxidant effects of Annona muricata (Annonaceae), aqueous extract on streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats

Ethnopharmacological relevance

The leaves of Annona muricata are used in Cameroon to manage diabetes and its complications. The aim of this study was to evaluate the antidiabetic, antioxidant activities and the potential toxicity of aqueous extract of Annona muricata in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats.

Material and methods

Oral administration of Annona muricata aqueous extract (100 mg/kg or 200 mg/kg) was studied in normal and streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. In long term treatment, 2 weeks after streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats, animals received plant extract during 28 consecutive days. For a protective effect, extract was administered 3 days prior to streptozotocin exposure and animals were observed 2 weeks without treatment.

Results

The plant extract was not effective in normal rats. In diabetic rats, single administration of the extract significantly reduced blood glucose levels by 75% and 58.22% respectively at the dose of 100 mg/kg and 200 mg/kg as compared to the initial value. Treatment of normal rats 3 days prior to diabetes induction showed that, Annona muricata extract has no effect within 72 h following STZ injection. However, after 14 days post-treatment, the extract at the dose of 100 mg/kg significantly reduced blood glucose levels as compared with initial value and diabetic control rats. Immunohistochemical staining of pancreatic β-cells of diabetic rats treated with the dose of 100 mg/kg expressed strong staining for β-cell compared to diabetic control. In a long-term study daily administration of Annona muricata aqueous extract for 28 days to diabetic rats, reduced blood glucose levels, serum creatinine, MDA, AST, ALT activity, and nitrite levels LDL-cholesterol. Total cholesterol, triglycerides, SOD, and CAT activity contents were restored.

Conclusion

These different results show that the antidiabetic activity of Annona muricata aqueous extract can be explained by its hypolipidaemic effect, its antioxidant and protective action on pancreatic β-cells, which in turn improve glucose metabolism.     

Antidiabetic activity of Paspalum scrobiculatum Linn. in alloxan induced diabetic rats

Ethnopharmacological relevance

Paspalum scrobiculatum Linn. (Poaceae) is traditionally used to treat diabetes mellitus. The grains of Paspalum scrobiculatum are having potential in the development of drug for diabetes due to their antidiabetic activity.

Aim of the study

To evaluate the antidiabetic activity of aqueous and ethanolic extracts of grains of Paspalum scrobiculatum Linn. (Poaceae) in alloxan induced diabetic rats.

Materials and methods

Aqueous and ethanolic extracts (250 and 500 mg/kg body weight), were administered orally to male Wistar albino rats. Alloxan monohydrate was used to induce diabetes mellitus. Total phenolic content was estimated in the extracts. The parameters studied included oral glucose tolerance test, fasting blood glucose, serum insulin and glycated haemoglobin levels, liver glycogen content, serum lipid profile, and changes in body weights.

Results

In oral glucose tolerance test, reduction of fasting blood glucose levels took place from 60 min of extract administration. The extracts produced a dose-dependent fall in fasting blood glucose (FBG). After 15 days of treatment with extracts the maximum reduction in FBG (35.14%) was observed in diabetic rats treated with ethanolic extract 500 mg/kg dose. A significant increase in serum insulin level was observed in the treated rats. Serum lipid levels were reversed towards near normal and a control in the loss of body weight was observed in treated rats as compared to diabetic control. The extract treatment also showed a significant increase in the liver glycogen and a significant decrease in glycated haemoglobin levels. The results demonstrate that Paspalum scrobiculatum possesses significant antidiabetic activity in diabetic rats.

Conclusion

The results suggest that Paspalum scrobiculatum has antidiabetic activity, thereby justifying its traditional claim and augmenting it into the present day systems of medicine.     

Antidiabetic and antioxidant effect of various fractions of Phyllanthus simplex in alloxan diabetic rats

Aim of the study

To evaluate the antidiabetic and antioxidant effects of various fractions of Phyllanthus simplex on alloxan induced diabetes in rats.

Materials and methods

Hypoglycemic effect of Phyllanthus simplex fractions was evaluated in normal and diabetic rats. Diabetes was induced by intraperitoneal injection of alloxan monohydrate (120 mg/kg). Normal and diabetic rats were divided into different groups (six rats each group) and orally administered with petroleum ether (P.E.) (200 and 400 mg/kg), ethyl acetate (EtOAc) (100 and 200 mg/kg), methanol (125 and 250 mg/kg), water fraction (150 and 300 mg/kg) and glibenclamide (10 mg/kg) for 21 days. Blood samples were collected from overnight fasted normal rats on day 21, from overnight fasted diabetic rats at 7, 14 and 21 days of treatment and analyzed for blood glucose level. On day 22 blood samples were collected from diabetic rats to estimate biochemical parameters, rats were sacrificed by single stunning and tissues were excised to measure their antioxidant and glycogen status.

Results

In the normoglycemic rats, MeOH (125 and 250 mg/kg) and aqueous fractions (150 and 300 mg/kg) showed a significant (P < 0.05) hypoglycemic effect on day 21. In diabetic control rats, MeOH (125 and 250 mg/kg) and aqueous fractions (150 and 300 mg/kg) showed significant antihyperglycemic effect (P < 0.001). The active fractions (MeOH and aqueous) of Phyllanthus simplex also increased the body weight of diabetic rats significantly compared to the control group. The active fractions were able to normalize the marked alterations in antioxidant enzymes and antioxidant parameters levels in liver and kidney. Treatment with the active fractions also normalized the diabetic induced hyperlipidemia and liver glycogen.

Conclusions

These results demonstrate the antidiabetic and antioxidant potential of fractions of Phyllanthus simplex and suggests that the plant may have therapeutic value in diabetes and related complications.     

Antidiabetic activity of aqueous fruit extract of Cucumis trigonus Roxb. in streptozotocin-induced-diabetic rats

Ethnopharmacological relevance

Cucumis trigonus Roxb. (Cucurbitaceae) fruit is used in the Indian traditional medicine for the treatment of diabetes. Based on a number of reports on the blood glucose level reduction and the other complications of diabetes associated with some Cucurbitaceae plants, the antidiabetic effect of Cucumis trigonus fruit was investigated.

Aim of the study

To investigate the antidiabetic action of the aqueous extract of Cucumis trigonus fruits in the different models of rats.

Materials and methods

The antidiabetic activity of aqueous extract of Cucumis trigonus fruit was evaluated by using normal and streptozotocin-induced-diabetic rats. The acute effect of aqueous extract was evaluated by administering 500 mg/kg p.o. to normoglycemic rats. In the chronic model, the aqueous extract was administered to normal and STZ-induced-diabetic rats at dose of 500 mg/kg p.o. per day for 21 days. Blood glucose levels and body weights were monitored at specific intervals and different biochemical parameters were also carried out.

Results

The statistical data indicated the significant increase in the body weight, liver glycogen and serum insulin level and decrease in the blood glucose, glycosylated hemoglobin levels, total cholesterol and serum triglycerides. HDL cholesterol level was significantly increased when treated with the extract.

Conclusion

The aqueous fruit extract of Cucumis trigonus has had beneficial effects in reducing the elevated blood glucose level and lipid profile of STZ-induced-diabetic rats.     

Behavioral and anticonvulsant effects of the standardized extract of Ficus platyphylla stem bark

Ethnopharmacological relevance

Decoctions of Ficus platyphylla Del.-Holl (Family: Moraceae) are used in Nigeria?s folk medicine for the management of epilepsy and their efficacies are widely acclaimed among the rural communities of northern Nigeria. The aim of the study is to examine the behavioral and anticonvulsant properties of the standardized methanol extract of Ficus platyphylla (FP) stem bark, in order to scientifically describe its potential values in the management of convulsive disorders.

Materials and methods

High performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and preliminary phytochemical analysis of the methanol extract were utilized and the intraperitoneal median lethal dose (LD₅₀) determined in mice. The effects of FP were investigated on some murine models of behavior and its anticonvulsant effects studied on pentylenetetrazole (PTZ)-, strychnine (STN)-, picrotoxin (PCT)-, isoniazid (INH)-, aminophylline (AMI)- and maximal electroshock (MES)-induced seizures in mice.

Results

The intraperitoneal oral LD₅₀ of FP was estimated to be 5000 mg/kg. FP significantly reduced the locomotor activities including the total distance covered, speed, active time and rearing counts. It shortened the onset and prolonged the duration of diazepam-induced sleep, but had no effect on motor coordination on the rota-rod treadmill or beam-walking assay in mice at the doses tested. The extract protected the mice against PTZ- and STN-induced seizures and significantly delayed the latencies of myoclonic jerks and tonic seizures induced by all the standard convulsant agents (PTZ, PCT, INH, STN and AMI) used in this study, but failed to protect the mice against MES seizures at the doses tested. The HPLC fingerprint of the extract shows a spectrum profile characteristic of Ficus platyphylla, while the preliminary phytochemical screening revealed the presence of saponins, flavonoids and tannins.

Conclusion

Our study provides scientific evidence that FP may contain psychoactive principles with potential anticonvulsant properties, thus supporting further development of the psychoactive components of this plant as anticonvulsant agents.     

Anti-hyperglycemic effect,inhibition of inflammatory cytokines expression,and histopathology profile in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats treated with Arracacia tolucensis aerial-parts extracts

Ethopharmacological relevance

Arracacia tolucensis is a medicinal plant used in northeast of Mexico as a remedy to treat people with Diabetes mellitus (DM); however, there are no scientific studies that support this information. Thus, we evaluated the anti-hyperglycemic effect of the hexane, ethyl acetate and ethanol extracts from aerial parts in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats.

Materials and methods

DM was induced in Wistar male rats by single intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin (STZ 50 mg/kg). After STZ-induction, hyperglycemic rats were treated with all three extracts orally at a single dose (250 mg/kg) each 48 h for 21 days. Glibenclamide (1 mg/kg) was used as a reference drug. The fasting blood glucose levels, the hematic biometry and biochemical profiles, and the inhibition of inflammatory cytokines expression were estimated. Histopathology analysis of pancreas, liver, spleen, and kidney tissue was carried out.

Results

Ours results showed that ethyl acetate extract decreased blood glucose levels significantly (75%, p< 0.05) when compared to diabetic rats and controlled the body weight loss; the lipids level did not change, but the enzyme levels of aspartate aminotransferase and alanine aminotransferase decreased significantly (60.83% and 66.16%, respectively, p< 0.05) and inhibited the expression of inflammatory cytokines,with respect to diabetic rats. Histopathology injury was not observed; by contrast repair of islet of Langerhans was exhibited.

Conclusion

These results validate the use of Arracacia tolucensis as a treatment against DM and suggests it is suitable to continue studies for its safe therapeutic use.     

Antidiabetic effect of alcoholic extract of Caralluma sinaica L. on streptozotocin-induced diabetic rabbits

People of Asir region of Saudi Arabia chew Caralluma sinaica (CS) to lower glucose level. To establish its utility in diabetes mellitus we have under taken this study. The effect of CS on streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic model as well as effect on oral glucose tolerance test were studied. The extract was shown to have positive test for possessing following chemical constituents like phenolic alkaloids, glycosides, flavonoids, coumarins, steroids and tannins. Administration of CS in different doses (50, 100, 150 and 200mg/kg, p.o.) to normal animals caused significant (P<0.01) decrease in glucose level. Prior administration of either CS (100mg/kg, p.o.) or glibenclamide (GB) (5mg/kg, p.o.) blocked the rise of glucose caused by the streptozotocin. Antidiabetic activity of CS was compared with clinically available drug GB. Administration of CS (100mg/kg, p.o.) to diabetic rabbits for 30 days has been shown to decrease plasma glucose level to almost normal level (P<0.001). Liver and kidney weight expressed as percentage of body weight significantly (P<0.05; P<0.01) increased in diabetic rabbits versus normal control (CNT). CS significantly (P<0.05) reversed the increasing weight of liver caused by STZ but not GB. STZ induced lowering of glycogen content of liver and muscle was reversed by both CS and GB. STZ induced a significant (P<0.001) increase in renal glycogen content this was almost normalized by CS (P<0.001) whereas GB significantly decreased (P<0.002) glycogen content. In oral glucose tolerance test administration of glucose increased plasma glucose level significantly in the diabetic control over the 2-h period. Compared to diabetic control plasma glucose levels in rabbits given CS or GB were significantly lower at all the time points that blood was sampled after oral glucose load. Comparing with the GB treatment blood glucose lowering effect was more pronounced for diabetic rabbits given CS. All these effects could explain the basis for use of this plant extract to manage diabetes mellitus.     

Antihyperlipidemic effect of the methanolic extract from Lagenaria siceraria Stand. fruit in hyperlipidemic rats

Ethnopharmacological relevance

Lagenaria siceraria Stand. (Cucurbitaceae) fruits have been used, traditionally, in the treatment of hyperlipidemia and atherosclerotic impasse and considered as cardioprotective and cardiotonic drug.

Aim of the study

The present work was undertaken to investigate the effects of methanolic extract from Lagenaria siceraria in experimentally induced hyperlipidemia in rats.

Materials and methods

Methanolic extract of Lagenaria siceraria fruits (LSFE) (100, 200 and 300 mg/kg; p.o.) was administered to the high fat-diet-induced hyperlipidemic rats for 30 days to evaluate its antihyperlipidemic activity. Atorvastatin (10 mg/kg; p.o.) was used as a standard drug.

Results

At the 30th day, most significant reduction in lipid levels in the LSFE treated rats as compared to the rats fed with high-fat diet at the 0th day were: total cholesterol 290.14 ± 18.42 mg/dl vs. 228.58 ± 16.38 mg/dl, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol 195.14 ± 8.86 mg/dl vs. 120.57 ± 8.11 mg/dl, triglyceride 232.41 ± 15.22 mg/dl vs. 181.79 ± 15.68 mg/dl, very low-density lipoprotein cholesterol 46.48 ± 3.04 mg/dl vs. 36.35 ± 3.13 mg/dl (P < 0.0001). Conversely, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels were significantly (P < 0.0001) increased from 48.52 ± 6.52 to 71.66 ± 5.14 mg/dl. The increase in weight in rats administered with LSFE was less when compared to rats fed with high-fat diet. Moreover, LSFE also exhibited significant increase in excretion of bile acids.

Conclusion

The results demonstrate that the LSFE has a definite antihyperlipidemic potential. There is also a valid scientific basis for consuming it in the treatment of coronary artery diseases in India.     

Hypoglycemic effect of a leaf extract of Pseuderanthemum palatiferum (Nees) Radlk. in normal and streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats

Ethnopharmacological relevance

Pseuderanthemum palatiferum (Nees) Radlk (Acanthaceae) was first found in Northern Vietnam and expanded throughout the country including the Mekong Delta region. The leaves of this plant are recommended in folk medicine of Vietnam and Thailand for promoting and treating various diseases including hypertension, diarrhea, arthritis, hemorrhoids, stomachache, tumors, colitis, bleeding, wounds, constipation, flu, colon cancer, nephritis, and diabetes.

Aim of the study

The hypoglycemic effect of an 80% ethanolic leaf extract from the leaves of Pseuderanthemum palatiferum (PPE) was investigated in normal and streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rats.

Materials and methods

The PPE was administered daily and orally to the rats at the doses of 250, 500, and 1000 mg/kg body weight (b.w.) for 14 days. The levels of fasting plasma glucose (FPG), serum insulin, and biochemical data such as blood urea nitrogen (BUN), triglycerides (TG), total cholesterol (TC), high-density lipoprotein (HDL), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) were evaluated. The hypoglycemic effect of PPE was compared to that of the known anti-diabetic drug glibenclamide (0.25 mg/kg b.w.).

Results

FPG and serum insulin in normal rats were not significantly different from the control and test groups in all dosages. The treated diabetic rats which had received PPE and glibenclamide showed significantly (p < 0.05) decreased FPG and increased serum insulin levels at the end of the experiment. The hypoglycemic effect of PPE at the dose of 250 mg/kg b.w. was significantly (p < 0.05) more effective than that of glibenclamide. The serum insulin in PPE fed diabetic rats at the dose of 250 mg/kg b.w. was not different from those which had received glibenclamide, and this dose was significantly (p < 0.05) more effective than PPE at the doses of 500 and 1000 mg/kg b.w. while PPE increased HDL and decreased TC, TG, LDL, BUN and ALP in the diabetic rats.

Conclusions

PPE has a beneficial effect in hyperglycemic rats and may prevent the complication of diabetes.     

Antihyperglycemic and antioxidant effect of Berberis aristata root extract and its role in regulating carbohydrate metabolism in diabetic rats

Ethnopharmacological relevance

Berberis aristata DC root is used in traditional medicine for a number of ailments including metabolic disorders.

Aim of the study

The aim of the present study was to explore the antihyperglycemic and antioxidant potential of 50% aqueous ethanolic root extract of Berberis aristata (BA) in alloxan induced diabetic rats.

Materials and methods

BA root extract (250 mg/kg) was administered to diabetic rats and standard drug glybenclamide (0.6 mg/kg) to group serving as positive control. Effect of extract on antioxidant and carbohydrate metabolism regulating enzymes of liver was studied in diabetic rats along with its safety parameters.

Results

The main constituents of root were identified as berberine, berbamine and palmatine through HPTLC. The extract besides being safe, lowered the blood glucose significantly without any hypoglycemic effect on their control counterparts. It increased CAT, SOD, GPx, GR activity significantly and reduced lipid peroxidation (41.6%) and protein carbonylation (30.15%). It also increased the glucokinase and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase activities and decreased glucose-6-phosphatase activity in diabetic rats which play a critical role in glucose homeostasis.

Conclusion

Thus, the extract of Berberis sristata (root) has strong potential to regulate glucose homeostasis through decreased gluconeogenesis and oxidative stress.     

Antidiabetic effects of Swertia macrosperma extracts in diabetic rats

Ethnopharmacological relevance

Swertia macrosperma is a traditional folk medicine used for its anti-hepatitis, antipyretic and antidotal effects as “Dida” or “Zangyinchen” in Tibet, Yunnan and Guizhou province for a long time, and it has been reported for its anti-diabetic effects in a Chinese patent. Swertia macrosperma was reported rich in xanthones, iridoids, seco-iridoids and their glycosides, several of which had been documented as potential antidiabetic agents. The objective of this study was to investigate the antidiabetic effect of Swertia macrosperma in diabetic rats.

Materials and methods

This study was designed firstly to evaluate the effect of Swertia macrosperma on glucose consumption in HepG2 cells. Based on the result in HepG2 cells, the antidiabetic effect of ethanol extract (EE) and n-butanol extract (BE) were investigated in diabetic rats induced by high fat fed and streptozotocin. The effects of EE and BE on fasting blood glucose, oral glucose tolerance test, serum insulin, glycosylated hemoglobin, serum lipid level, serum antioxidant parameters, glucokinase, glucose-6-phosphatase activities and glycogen content in liver tissue were measured, histology examination of pancreatic tissue was also carried out.

Results

After 4 weeks treatment with EE and BE, apparently decreased fasting blood glucose concentrations were observed in these treated groups, compared with the diabetic control groups. Additionally, improvement in serum antioxidant parameters and lipid profile were evidenced clearly. Moreover, EE and BE had effects of protecting the pancreatic β-cells and stimulating insulin secretion from the remaining pancreatic β-cells, evidenced by pancreatic histology examination. Increased glucokinase activity and decreased glucose-6-phosphatase activity were observed in liver.

Conclusion

The results of in vivo and in vitro experiment suggested that EE and BE of Swertia macrosperma had excellent effects on controlling the hyperglycemia and hyperlipidemia in diabetic rats.     

Antidiabetic effects of Artemisia sphaerocephala Krasch. gum,a novel food additive in China,on streptozotocin-induced type 2 diabetic rats

Aim of the study

Since ancient times, practicians of traditional Chinese medicine have discovered that Artemisia sphaerocephala Krasch. (Asteraceae) seed powder was useful for the treatment of diabetes. Artemisia sphaerocephala Krasch. gum (ASK gum), which is extracted from seed powder of the plant, is a novel food additive favored by the food industry in China. The objective of this study was to determine the antidiabetic function of ASK gum on type 2 diabetes.

Materials and methods

Type 2 diabetic rat model was induced with high fat diet and low dose of streptozotocin (STZ). The effects of ASK gum on hyperglycemia, hyperlipemia, insulin resistance, and liver fat accumulation in type 2 diabetic rats were evaluated. The results were compared to those of normal rats and diabetic rats treated with metformin.

Results

The addition of ASK gum to the rats’ food supply significantly lowered fasting blood glucose, glycated serum protein, serum cholesterol, and serum triglyceride in type 2 diabetic rats, and significantly elevated liver glucokinase, liver glycogen, and serum high density protein cholesterol in the diabetic rats. ASK gum significantly reduced insulin resistance and liver fat accumulation of type 2 diabetes.

Conclusion

: Artemisia sphaerocephala Krasch. gum can alleviate hyperglycemia, hyperlipemia and insulin resistance of type 2 diabetes.     

Antidiabetic activity of alcoholic stem extract of Nervilia plicata in streptozotocin-nicotinamide induced type 2 diabetic rats

Ethnopharmacological relevance

Nervilia plicata (Orchidaceae) has long been used in the antidiabetic medicinal preparations of traditional healers of Wayanad (Kerala), but recuperative potential of the plant was remained undefined. We demonstrated the regenerative potential of the plant extract on kidney affected by type 2 diabetes besides lowering blood glucose.

Aim of the study

The aim of the current study was to investigate the recuperative and regenerative potential of alcoholic stem extract of Nervilia plicata on streptozotocin-nicotinamide induced type 2 diabetic models.

Materials and methods

Non insulin dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM) was induced in overnight fasted rats by intramuscular injection (IMI) of 60 mg/kg STZ and 120 mg/kg of nicotinamide after 5 min interval. Blood glucose was assessed by a glucometer, serum urea and creatinine levels were determined by diacetylmonooxime method and Jaffe reaction respectively. Kidney sections were taken and stained with Masson's tri-dye and Periodic Acid Schiff (PAS) and examined for structural changes. Also lipid peroxidation product (LPP) levels were determined as thio barbituric acid reactive substance levels (TBARS) method.

Results

On administration of 5 mg/kg of plant extract, blood glucose levels of the NIDDM rats showed 62.00 and 76.29% decrease in the blood glucose levels on day 0 and day 30 respectively. Damages caused to the kidney tissue were negligible or not seen. Serum urea and creatinine levels showed 61.49 and 70.96% decrease on day 30. LPP levels of kidney and pancreas showed 70.58 and 77.41% decrease respectively.

Conclusion

These results demonstrate significant antidiabetic and regenerative potential of the Nervilia plicata, justifying the use of plant in the indigenous system of medicine. Isolation and characterisation of the compound(s) playing pivotal role in the cure would open new vistas in the therapy of type 2 diabetes.     

Antimicrobial activity of the crude extract,fractions and compounds from stem bark of Ficus ovata (Moraceae)

Aim of the study

This study was designed to investigate the antimicrobial activities of the methanol extracts from the stem bark of Ficus ovata (FOB), fractions (FOB1–6) and compounds isolated following bio-guided fractionation [3-friedelanone (1), taraxeryl acetate (2), betulinic acid (3), oleanoïc acid (4), 2-hydroxyisoprunetin (5), 6,7-(2-isopropenyl furo)-5,2,4-trihydroxyisoflavone (6), Cajanin (7) and protocatechuic acid (8)].

Materials and Methods

The micro-dilution method was used for the determination of the minimal inhibition concentration (MIC) and the minimal microbicidal concentration (MMC) against fungi (two species), Gram-positive (three species) and Gram-negative bacteria (five species).

Results

The results of the MIC determinations indicated that the crude extract (FOB), fractions FOB2 and FOB4 as well as compound 5 were active on the entire studied organisms. Other samples showed selective activity, fractions FOB1, FOB3 and FOB5 being active against 50% of the tested microbial species while FOB6 was active on 40%. Compounds 8, 6, 2 and 7 prevented the growth of 80%, 70%, 50% and 20% of the organisms respectively. The lowest MIC value (156g/ml) observed with the crude extract was recorded on Streptococcus faecalis, Candida albicans and Microsporum audouinii. The corresponding value for fractions (39 μg/ml) was noted with FOB4 against Staphylococcus aureus, while that of the tested compounds (10 μg/ml) was observed with compound 8 on Microsporum audouinii. The results of the MMC determination suggested that the cidal effect of most of the tested samples on the studied microorganisms could be expected.

Conclusions

The overall results provided evidence that the studied plant extract, as well as some of the isolated compounds might be potential sources of new antimicrobial drug.     

Antidiabetic effect of Ficus bengalensis aerial roots in experimental animals

Ethnopharmacological relevance

Herbal preparations of Ficus bengalensis had been considered as effective, economical and safe ethnomedicines for various ailments in Indian traditional system of medicine.

Aim of study

The present study was aimed to explore scientifically the antidiabetic potential of Ficus bengalensis aerial roots as its bark had already been reported to possess antidiabetic efficacy.

Materials and methods

Effect of variable doses of aqueous extract of Ficus bengalensis aerial roots on blood glucose level (BGL) of normal-, sub- and mild-diabetic models have been studied and the results were compared with the reference drug Glipizide and elemental Mg and Ca intake as glycemic elements.

Results

The dose of 300 mg kg⁻¹ showed the maximum fall of 43.8 and 40.7% in BGL during FBG and glucose tolerance test (GTT) studies of normal rats, respectively. The same dose showed a marked reduction in BGL of 54.3% in sub- and 51.7% in mild-diabetic rats during GTT. The concentration of Mg (1.02%) and Ca (0.85%) identified through laser induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) in the most effective dose could be responsible for this high percentage fall in BGL as they take part in glucose metabolism.

Conclusion

The hypoglycemic effect in normoglycemic and antidiabetic effect in sub- and mild-diabetic models of aqueous extract of aerial roots of Ficus bengalensis are due to the presence of these glycemic elements in high concentration with respect to other elements.     

Anti-inflammatory,wound healing and in-vivo antioxidant properties of the leaves of Ficus amplissima Smith

Ethno pharmacological relevance

Ficus amplissima, commonly known as kal-itchchi, being used in folklore medicine, leaves juice is applied externally on old chronic wounds and the latex is applied on the wound.

Aim

There was no scientific evidence justifying the medicinal use of Ficus amplissima, therefore the present study was aimed at evaluation of anti-inflammatory, wound healing and in-vivo antioxidant activity of the plant.

Materials and methods

In the present study the acetone extract of Ficus amplissima leaves were studied for enzymatic antioxidant activity through different assays, anti-inflammatory by using carrageenan and histamine induced rat paw edema models (50 mg, 100 mg acetone extract) and wound healing activity by incorporating the two doses (1% (w/w) and 2% (w/w)) of acetone extract and simple ointment base B.P. in concentration of 0.5% (w/w) using excision and incision wound models in rats. In case of the excision wound model wound contraction and period of epithelization was studied while incision wound model was evaluated by determining tensile strength.

Results

Ficus amplissima leaves expressed the potent anti-inflammatory and in-vivo antioxidant activity where 100 mg acetone extract showed high activity. Treatment of wound with ointment containing 2% (w/w) acetone extract exhibited significant (P<0.001) wound healing activity.

Conclusion

The acetone extract of Ficus amplissima leaves exhibited better anti-inflammatory, wound healing and in-vivo antioxidant activity probably due to phenols constituents.     

In vitro determination of the uterine stimulatory effect of the aqueous leaf extract of Ficus exasperata

Ethnopharmacological relevance

The leaves of Ficus exasperata Vahl (Moraceae) are used by traditional healers in Southern Nigeria to arrest pre-term contractions and are also used as an abortifacient in some parts of Africa.

Aim of study

An earlier study on the aqueous leaf extract of Ficus exasperata (AET) showed that the extract at lower concentrations inhibited oxytocin-induced uterine contractions and at higher concentrations, stimulated uterine contraction. This study thus aims to determine, the possible mechanisms by which AET stimulates uterine contraction in vitro.

Materials and methods

The contractile effect of AET (5.0 × 10⁻² to 100 × 10⁻² mg/ml) and oxytocin (which was used as a reference drug) were examined in the presence of the following antagonists: atropine (1.18 and 11.91 nM); indomethacin (1.42 and 14.25 nM); verapamil (2.03 and 20.35 nM); phentolamine (4.09 and 40.91 nM), or diphenhydramine (4.45 and 44.47 nM). The EC₅₀ and E_max were determined and statistically analyzed using one-way ANOVA and Dunnett post hoc test.

Results

There was no significant difference in the EC₅₀ and E_max of AET and oxytocin in the presence of atropine. Diphenhydramine and phentolamine significantly inhibited (p < 0.01) the extract but both drugs had no effect on oxytocin. However, significant differences (p < 0.01) were observed in the EC₅₀ and E_max of AET and oxytocin in the presence of verapamil and indomethacin.

Conclusions

These results suggest that the stimulation of uterine contractility by AET may arise from the activation of histamine H₁- and/or α-adrenergic receptors, interference with calcium channels and/or stimulation of prostaglandin synthesis in utero.