A polysaccharide from Acanthopanax senticosus improves the antioxidant status in alloxan-induced diabetic mice

► A homogeneous polysaccharide (ASP) was extracted from Acanthopanax senticosus. ► ASP had a potent scavenging ability to superoxide radical and hydroxyl radicals in vitro. ► ASP could reduce the levels of TBARS and LP in diabetic mice. ► ASP could elevate SOD and CAT activities of diabetic rats. ► ASP could decrease the level of FBG and increase the level of FINS.