ANTIHYPERGLYCEMIC ACTIVITY OF Exacum wightianum Arn. AN ENDEMIC MEDICINAL PLANT.

An attempt was made to study the beneficial effects of ethanol extract of Exacum wightianum Arn. (Gentianaceae) on its antihyperglycemic activity in streptozotocin induced diabetic rats. The pilot studies were carried after oral administration at doses of ethanolic extract of E. wightianum 100, 200, 500 and 1000 mg/kgb.wt. in sub-acute study. In diabetic induced rats fed with E. wightianum ethanol extract at 100 and 200 mg/kg body b.wt., the fasting plasma glucose levels were reduced to normal body and liver weight were found to be increased. Where as blood glucose, protein, albumin and creatinine levels were estimated after two weeks. Theextract significantly inhibited the induction of albuminuria, proteinemia and uremia. The present study clearly indicated a significant antidiabetic activity with the ethanol extract of E. wightianum supports the traditional usage of the plant by Ayurvedic physicians for the control of diabetes. Also the extract is useful in preventing the incidence of long term complications of diabetes mellitus.