Hypoglycemic and hypolipidemic activities of incensole from Olibanum on streptozotocin diabetic rats

Incensole is a macrocyclic diterpene with a wide spectrum of bioactivities. It was isolated from the oleogum resin of Boswellia carterii Birdwood. This study discusses for the first time the potential hypoglycemic and hypolipidemic effects of incensole on diabetic rats. Biochemical and histochemical studies completed and confirmed our findings. Diabetes was induced in rats by streptozotocin (STZ, 40 mg/kg), which is a selective β-cells destructor. Incensole was administered daily to diabetic rats at 5 and 10 mg/kg for thirty days. Several parameters were measured including body weight, blood glucose level, lipid profile and plasma enzymes (SGPT, SGOT and ALP). All studies were performed in comparison with the standard drug "Glibenclamide". Results showed that incensole is effective in lowering the blood-glucose level in the experimental rat model (201.7 ± 9.236) compared to the disease control group (588.8 ± 11.43). Biochemical and histopathological studies proved that incensole has a protective or stimulating effect on β-cells of the rat pancreas. It also increased the insulin secretion; evidenced by a significant increase both in body weight and in liver glycogen.

Fig. 1: Incensole