Aqueous Fraction Of Chlorophytum alismifolium Lowers Blood Glucose Level In Wistar Rats

Abstract

Diabetes mellitus contributes to one in nine deaths among adults aged 20–79 years globally. This research investigated the blood lowering effect of the aqueous fraction of Chlorophytum alismifolium (AFCA) in normoglycaemic and alloxan-induced hyperglycaemic rats. The tubers of C. alismifolium were processed and extracted with various solvents to obtain the aqueous fraction of C. alismifolium. Phytochemical screening was conducted using established protocol. The oral median lethal dose was established using the OECD 425 guideline. AFCA (150, 300 and 600 mg/kg) was administered to normal and alloxan-induced hyperglycaemic rats. Blood glucose levels were monitored at 0, 1^st, 3^rd and 5^th hours. The LD₅₀ was estimated to be greater than 5000 mg/kg. Administration of AFCA at the doses of 300 and 600 mg/kg significantly (p<0.01) reduced the blood glucose level in the 5^th hour when compared to the normal control. In the antihyperglycaemic study, AFCA significantly (p<0.05) lowered the blood glucose level compared to the hyperglycaemic control at all the doses tested. Phytochemical screening revealed the presence of alkaloids, glycosides, triterpenes, flavonoids and saponins. In conclusion, AFCA lowered the blood glucose levels in normal and alloxan-induced hyperglycaemic rats.