ANTIHYPERGLYCEMIC AND HYPOLIPIDEMIC ACTIVITY OF METHANOLIC EXTRACT OF AMARANTHUS CAUDATUS L. LEAVES IN EXPERIMENTAL DIABETES
Amaranthus caudatus leaves are described in folk medicine as possessing anti-diarrheal, astringent, nutritive, tonic, hypoglycemic and hypolipidemic effects. To investigate the antihyperglycaemic and hypolipidemic effect of methanolic extract of leaves of Amaranthus caudatus in different models of rats. The anti hyperglycemic and hypolipidemic activity of methanolic extract of leaves of Amaranthus caudatus (MEAC) was evaluated by using normal and STZ (Streptozotocin) induced diabetic rats. The methanolic extract was administered to normal and STZ-induced diabetic rats at dose of 200 mg/kg and 400 mg/kg p.o. per day for 21 days. Blood glucose levels, Body weights were monitored at specific intervals and different biochemical parameters were also carried out. Histology of pancreas was performed. The statistical data indicated the significant increase in the body weight, decrease in the blood glucose, total cholesterol and serum triglycerides. HDL cholesterol level was significantly increased when treated with extract. Histologically, focal necrosis was observed in the diabetic rat pancreas but was less obvious in treated groups. The MEAC has beneficial effects in reducing the elevated blood glucose level and body weight changes and lipid profile of STZ induced rats.