Evaluation of Anti-diabetic Potential of Aqueous Extract of Moringa oleifera Leaf in Alloxan-Induced Diabetic Rats

Abstract

The anti-diabetic potential of aqueous extract of Moringa oleifera leaf was evaluated in alloxan-induced diabetic rats. The rats were grouped into five (5) groups of 10 animals each namely: the Control group, Tween 80-treated, Glibenclamide-treated and Moringa oleifera-treated orally at 700 and 900 mg/kg body weight respectively. The results revealed that the extract significantly (P<0.05) reduced the fasting blood sugar level as well as the postprandial rise in blood glucose after a heavy glucose meal in normoglycaemic rats. Also administration of the extract reduced fasting blood sugar level.  The extract also significantly (P<0.05) reduced the serum total cholesterol and triglyceride level but caused an increase in HDL level. It significantly (P<0.05) increased the body weight of extract-treated diabetic rats. Sub-chronic study of the effect of the extract showed a significant increase (P<0.05) in packed cell volume (PCV), white blood counts in rat induced diabetes which however, attain basal level. The histological studies showed that the diabetic rats with the architecture of the pancreas distorted, was restored to normalcy by the extract. Its LD₅₀ was found to be greater than 1000 mg/kg indicating its safety in rats. The result therefore suggests that aqueous extract of Moringa oleifera leaf is safe for use via the oral route and also has anti-diabetic potential.