Hypoglycemic and hypolipidemic effects of ethanolic and aqueous extracts from Ziziphus oenoplia (L) Mill on alloxan-induced diabetic rats

The objective of present study was to investigate hypoglycemic and hypolipidemic effect of ethanolic and aqueous extracts of Ziziphus oenoplia (L) stem bark against Alloxan induce hyperglycemia in rats. Hyperglycemia was induced by an injection of alloxan monohydrate 150 mg/kg (i.p.). After 72 hr, the rats having Blood Glucose Level (BGL) above 150 mg/dL were selected for the investigation. At two different doses (200 mg/kg and 400 mg/kg b.w.) of aqueous and ethanolic extracts were observed antidiabetic effect for 12 consecutive days. BGL was monitored after 1, 3, 6 and 12 days and compared with Metformin (250 mg/kg). Alpha amylase and alpha glucosidase activity of both extracts were also determined. Phytochemical study revealed the presence of glycosides, flavonoids, alkaloids and terpenoids in ethanol extract and flavonoids, carbohydrates and proteins found in aqueous extract of Z. oenoplia bark. Oral administration of both extracts showed significant (P <0.05) antihyperglycemic activity in dose dependent manner in alloxan induced diabetic rats. The diabetic rats had significant (P <0.01) reduction in blood glucose; serum liver enzyme level (AST, ALT, and ALP) and lipid profile were compared with normal rats. Significant effects of aqueous and alcoholic extract in alpha amylase and alpha glucosidase activity were observed in rats. The ethanolic and aqueous extract reveals the reduction in the blood glucose level, inhibition of alpha amylase and alpha glucosidase enzymes which support antidiabetic effect (reduce postprandial glucose levels) of Z. oenoplia and this may be due to presence of flavonoids constituents.