The Antidiabetic Potentials of the Methanolic Seed Extract of Buchhlozia coriacea

Abstract

Background: Diabetes mellitus has remained a significant contributor to morbidities and mortalities in our environment despite all efforts to curb the trend. Regrettably, conventional, orthodox hypoglycemic agents have remained unaffordable. Consequently the need for available and affordable alternatives cannot be overemphasized. Objectives: To determine the effect of the methanolic seed extracts of Buchhlozia coriacea, on blood glucose levels in alloxan-induced diabetes mellitus. Methods: Hyperglycemia was induced by the injection of 120 mg/kg intrapetoneally (i.p.) of alloxan monohydrate freshly dissolved in distilled water. Three doses (100, 250, and 500 mg/kg) per os, of the extracts were administered in the study. The activity was compared with reference standard drug, glibenclamide (2 mg/kg, p.o.) and negative control. Results: Treatment of alloxan-induced diabetic mice with the crude extracts of B. coriacea seed brought down the raised blood glucose levels significantly (P = 0.043) in a dose-dependent manner. Conclusion: B. coriacea seed was shown to possess significant antidiabetic potential.

Key Words: Alloxan monohydrate, Buchhlozia coriacea, Diabetes mellitus, Glibenclamide.