Effect of Aqueous Methanolic Stem Bark of Maerua angolensis (Capparidaceae) Extract on Blood Glucose Levels of Streptozocin-induced Diabetic Wistar Rats

The hypoglycemic effect of aqueous methanolic extract of Maerua angolensis stem bark was investigated in streptozocin-induced diabetic rats. A single administration of the extract at the doses of 250, 500 and 1000 mg kg 1. There was a significant decreased in the blood glucose levels after 4 of extract administration at the doses of 250 and 500 mg kg 1. Also after 8 and 24 h of extract administration there was a significant decreased (p<0.05) in the 3 dose administered. The effective dose resides at the dose of 500 mg kg 1. The Preliminary phytochemical screening revealed the presence glycosides, tannins, saponins, terpenes, flavonoids, carbohydrate, protein and alkaloids. The median Lethal Dose (LD50) in rats was calculated to be 3807.8 mg kg 1 body weight. In conclusion the aqueous methanolic extract of Maerua angolensis stem bark possess anti-diabetic effect in streptozocin induced in diabetic rats.