Ilex paraguariensis extracts reduce blood glucose, peripheral neuropathy and oxidative damage in male mice exposed to streptozotocin

Ilex paraguariensis (IP) is used for the preparation of stimulant drinks commonly consumed in South America. Extracts of this plant are known to contain a wide variety of polyphenols, exerting beneficial effects as antioxidant. The aim of this study was to evaluate for the first time the effect of yerba mate extracts in a model of type 1 diabetes induced by streptozotocin (STZ) in mice. We evaluated extract compounds, glucose levels, serum transaminases, and fructosamine in blood, and oxidative stress parameters in liver, kidney and brain. Finally, we analyzed the thermal sensitivity as an indicator of diabetic neuropathy. Ilex paraguariensis extracts reduced hyperglycemia, normalized oxidative stress parameters and prevented peripheral neuropathy. Altogether, these effects can be attributed to the potent antioxidant capacity of IP combined with its potential hypoglycemic effect. We suggest that IP compounds may help to design therapeutic alternatives for the treatment of diabetes mellitus.