5. Evaluation of the hypoglycemic effect of aqueous extract of Phyllanthus amarus in alloxan-induced diabetic albino rats

The hypoglycemic potential of aqueous extract of Phyllanthus amarus Schum was investigated in alloxan-induced diabetic albino rats. The extract at a dose of 260 mg/kg produced a significant (P< 0.05) reduction in blood glucose level by 112% at 24 h of oral administration. At 390 mg/kg, significant reduction (P< 0.05) in blood glucose levels of 102% (6 h) and 82% (24 h) were observed. A significant reduction (P<0.01) in blood glucose level of 81% and 61% (day 7) at doses of 130 and 260 mg/kg of extract respectively were observed. The extract also a highly significant (P<0.001) decrease in blood glucose level of 38% and 30% (day 14) at doses of 130 and 260 mg/kg respectively. On the administration of 390 mg/kg dose of extract, significant reduction (P<0.001) in blood glucose level of 41% on day 7 and 16% on day 14 were observed. The above results indicate the presence of hypoglycemic constituents in the plant, Phyllanthus amarus Schum.