Ampa Konsue¹, Chirapha Butiman², Vijitra Luang-In³, Suthira Maneechai⁴, Teeraporn Katisart^4,5

Abstract

Purpose: To evaluate the anti-hyperglycemic activities of Lepisanthes rubiginosa (Roxb.) Leenh. Leaf and pericarp extracts in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. Methods: Doses of 500 mg/kg of the leaf and pericarp extracts were administered orally once daily to both control and streptozotocin (65 mg/kg)-induced diabetic rats for 28 days. Changes in body weight, blood glucose, triglycerides, liver and kidney function tests as well as histopathological examination of the liver cells post-administration of the extracts were evaluated and compared. Results: Administration of 500 mg/kg of these two extracts to diabetic rats resulted in a significant increase (p < 0.05) in body weight, a significant reduction (p < 0.05) in fasting blood glucose, and a decrease in triglycerides after 4 weeks of treatment compared to diabetic controls, without affecting other hematological values. Liver function tests showed a decrease (p < 0.05) in aspartate aminotransferase levels, while kidney function tests indicated a significant reduction (p < 0.05) in blood urea nitrogen levels. Conclusion: Lepisanthes rubiginosa (Roxb.) Leenh. Leaf and pericarp extract effectively lower blood glucose levels in diabetic rats by restoring pancreatic histopathology, resulting in an increase in the size of islets of Langerhans and promoting the cells thereby leading to increased insulin secretion.