Antidiabetic Effect of Hydro-Ethanolic Leaf Extract of Sclerocarya Birrea (A. Rich.) Hochst in Wistar Rats

Abstract

Introduction: in Wistar rats. Methods: The extract was tested at 25-200 mg/kg in an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT), and at 100-400 mg/kg in normoglycemic and high fructose-fed, streptozotocin (STZ)-induced type 2 diabetic rats over 21 and 28 days, respectively. Fasting blood glucose, insulin, glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c), glucose transporter type 4 (GLUT4), haematological and biochemical parameters, and histopathological changes in key organs were evaluated. Results: In the OGTT, the extract significantly reduced postprandial blood glucose at 100 and 200 mg/kg starting from 60 minutes post-glucose load (p < 0.05). In normoglycemic rats, repeated administration over 21 days led to a dose-dependent and statistically significant reduction in fasting blood glucose beginning on day 14 and sustained through day 21 (p < 0.01). In diabetic rats, fasting blood glucose levels were significantly reduced from day 7 onward, with 400 mg/kg producing effects comparable to glibenclamide by day 28 (p < 0.01). Insulin, GLUT4, and HbA1c levels were not significantly altered (p > 0.05). Haematological and biochemical parameters remained within normal ranges, and histopathological examination showed preservation of pancreatic and renal tissues in treated groups. Conclusion: leaf extract significantly lowers blood glucose in both normoglycemic and diabetic rats without adverse effects, supporting its potential as a safe plant-based option for diabetes management. Further research is warranted to clarify its mechanisms and long-term impact.