Evaluation of hypoglycaemic and histopathological effects of „Diabetes 5“ in rats

Diabetes is a major health problem affecting 3% of population worldwide [1]. Few of the plants used for the treatment of diabetes have received scientific or medical scrutiny and even the WHO expert committee on diabetes recommends that this area warrant further attention [2]. „Diabetes 5“ (a 50–50% mixture of Vernonia amygdalina leaves and Anisopus manii leaves) is an unofficial herbal formula marketed in Nigeria for the treatment of diabetes mellitus. Methanol and chloroform extracts were evaluated for hypoglycaemic activities in rats (five rats per group) at 100 and 200mg/kg compared to standard drug (STD) (Glibenclamide at 3mg/kg) and normal saline, using standard method [3]. Route of administration is oral. Histopathological studies were also conducted to evaluate effects of the formulation and STD on vital organs (Lungs, Brain, Kidney, Liver, Heart and spleen) of the rats. There was no significant difference (P<0.05) among the extracts (at 200mg/kg) and standard drug after 24 hrs (methanol 265±50.5, chloroform 246.5±20.5 and STD 296.3±62.5mg/dl). However, there were significant difference among the extracts and STD at 3hr and 6hr. Both extracts and STD did not show any visible lesion on the brain and the lungs. There were however visible congestion in the spleen and kidney. „Diabetes 5“ has hypoglycaemic activity. The extracts, like STD, has adverse effects on some organs in rats.

References: 1. Attele, et al (2002) Diabetes 51, 1851–1858.

2. WHO (1980) World Health Organization, Geneva.

3. Ortiz-Andrade, et al (2005)J. Ethnopharmacol 101: 37–42.