Effect Of Aqueous Extracts Of Leaves Of Globimetula Cupulata (Dc) Van Tieghem In Normoglycemic Rats

Abstract

Globimetula cupulata leaves were evaluated for their hypoglycemic activity in rats. The animals were divided into 4 groups (n=6). Water extract of G. cupulata leaves was administered in graded doses of 0, 300, 600 and 900 mg kg body weight (wt) of experimental animals for 14days. Blood samples were collected by cardiac puncture. The levels of blood glucose were significantly reduced (p < 0.05) by 35.79 – 43.48% on consumption of the extracts, with greater effect exhibited by the 900mg/kg body wt extract. Histological studies showed increases in the number and density of the pancreatic islet cells. The result suggested restorative (protective) effect of the extract on pancreatic islet cells. Administration of aqueous extract of Globimetula cupulata leaves may contribute significantly to the reduction of blood glucose levels by a pancreatotrophic action and possible potentiation of insulin secretion, which may be useful in the treatment of diabetes.