Abstract
The hypoglycaemic and antihyperglycaemic effects of methanol extract of leaves of
Cleome rutidosperma (Cr) DC (Family: Capparidaceae) was investigated in Wistar rats.
Fifty normoglycaemic male rats (120 g–200 g) were divided into groups A (hypoglycaemic
study; n=20) and B (antihyperglycaemic study; n=30). Each experiment had one control
group and three groups administered with Cr (100, 200 or 400 mg/kg) respectively.
Group B had two additional groups of diabetic-untreated rats and glibenclamide-treated
diabetic rats. Diabetes was induced in Group B rats (except control) fasted overnight
for 12 h by intraperitoneal injection of Alloxan (100 mg/kg). Fasting blood glucose
levels (FBGL) were determined and alloxan-treated rats with BGL >200 mg/dl 48 h post-induction
were considered diabetic. Data obtained were analyzed using One-way ANOVA and Duncan
Multiple Range Test (p<0.05). Cr-treated rats showed significant decline in BGL with
noteworthy decline by day 3 post-treatment at the dose of 200 mg/kg (236.40±14.72 mg/dl)
from 336.40±21.06 mg/dl. Cr at the dose of 200 mg/kg (72.20±6.18 mg/dl, 69.20±7.81 mg/dl,
137.80±7.15 mg/dl and 70.60±10.66 mg/dl) showed better glycemic control compared to
glibenclamide (194.50±7.75 mg/dl, 253.75±7.20 mg/dl, 284.25±10.56 mg/dl and 156.00±10.80 mg/dl).
Cr-treated rats also showed progressive weight gain through the course of the study.
This study demonstrated Cr has antihyperglycemic effect with more rapid onset of action
and better glycemic control compared to glibenclamide.
Key words
Cleome rutidosperma - diabetes mellitus - antihyperglycaemic effect
