In-vivo Screening of Ethanolic Extract of Antigonon leptopus Flower for Anti-diabetic and Antioxidant Potential

Objectives: Medicinal plants have always been a consummate source for drugs and already provided us with lead compounds for numerous currently available drugs with no or less side effects. This supports the usage of herbal drugs for the treatment and management of various diseases. However, an assessment with available techniques has become an essential aspect to establish a valid scientific rationale for their usage in major healthcare problems. Methods: Ethanolic extract of Antigonon leptopus flower was screened for antioxidant activity by DPPH method and its effects on blood glucose levels (OGTT, acute and sub-acute study) in Alloxan induced diabetic rats, effects on serum lipid profiles and histopathological study of pancreas. Results: The extract showed potent in-vitro antioxidant activity. Treatment with ethanolic extract of Antigonon leptopus exhibits remarkable reduction in fasting blood glucose level (OGTT) at 2nd and 4th hr with a percentage of 26% and 11% respectively, whereas in acute study (at 6 hr) it was found to be 16 % and in sub acute study (15 days) it was reported to be 54%. Also, a significant lipid lowering activity was observed. Conclusion: This potent antioxidant, hypoglycemic and hypolipidemic efficacy may be attributed to the secondary metabolites (phenols, flavonoids, terpenoids, alkaloids, phytosterols and proteins) present.