Anti-Hyperglycaemic Effect of Cleome Rutidosperma in Alloxan-Induced Diabetic Albino Rats.

The hypoglycaemic and antihyperglycaemic effects of methanol extract of leaves of Cleome rutidosperma (Cr) DC (Family: Capparidaceae) was investigated in Wistar rats. Fifty normoglycaemic male rats (120 g-200 g) were divided into groups A (hypoglycaemic study; n=20) and B (antihyperglycaemic study; n=30). Each experiment had one control group and three groups administered with Cr (100, 200 or 400 mg/kg) respectively. Group B had two additional groups of diabetic-untreated rats and glibenclamide-treated diabetic rats. Diabetes was induced in Group B rats (except control) fasted overnight for 12 h by intraperitoneal injection of Alloxan (100 mg/kg). Fasting blood glucose levels (FBGL) were determined and alloxan-treated rats with BGL >200 mg/dl 48 h post-induction were considered diabetic. Data obtained were analyzed using One-way ANOVA and Duncan Multiple Range Test (p<0.05). Cr-treated rats showed significant decline in BGL with noteworthy decline by day 3 post-treatment at the dose of 200 mg/kg (236.40±14.72 mg/dl) from 336.40±21.06 mg/dl. Cr at the dose of 200 mg/kg (72.20±6.18 mg/dl, 69.20±7.81 mg/dl, 137.80±7.15 mg/dl and 70.60±10.66 mg/dl) showed better glycemic control compared to glibenclamide (194.50±7.75 mg/dl, 253.75±7.20 mg/dl, 284.25±10.56 mg/dl and 156.00±10.80 mg/dl). Cr-treated rats also showed progressive weight gain through the course of the study. This study demonstrated Cr has antihyperglycemic effect with more rapid onset of action and better glycemic control compared to glibenclamide.