Antihyperglycaemic activity of aqueous leaf extract of Combretum micranthum (Combretaceae) in normal and alloxan-induced diabetic rats

Aim of the studyTo investigate antidiabetic effect of the leaves of Combretum micranthum G. Don, a medicinal plant used for treating diabetes in Northwestern Nigeria.Materials and methodsThree doses (100 mg/kg, 200 mg/kg and 400 mg/kg) of the aqueous leaf extract of Combretum micranthum were administered to normal glucose loaded, subdiabetic and diabetic rats.ResultsOf the doses tested, 100 mg/kg of the extract was the most effective. It produces a significant hypoglycaemic and antidiabetic activity comparable to the effect of standard drug (0.6 mg/kg glibenclemide).ConclusionThis study demonstrated the potential antidiabetic property of aqueous leaf extract of Combretum micranthum thus justifying its traditional usage.

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