Evaluation of Antidiabetic Activity of Hydroalcoholic Extract of Cestrum nocturnum Leaves in Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Rats

Objective. To investigate antidiabetic activity of hydroalcoholic extract of Cestrum nocturnum leaves in Wistar rats. Method. Cestrum nocturnum leaves extract in hydroalcoholic solution were prepared by Soxhletation method and stored in refrigerator at 4°C for two days before use. Wistar rats were made diabetic by a single dose of streptozotocin (150？mg/kg i.p.). Hydroalcoholic leaves extract of Cestrum nocturnum was screened for antidiabetic activity and given to the STZ-induced diabetic rats at a concentration of 200？mg/kg and 400？mg/kg of body weight in different groups of 6 diabetic rats each orally once a day for 15 days. Metformin is also given to another group to support the result at a dose of 10？mg/kg of body weight orally once a day for 15 days. Blood glucose levels and body weights of rats were measured on 0, 5, 7, and 15th days. Results. Oral administration of the extracts for 15 days caused a significant ( ) reduction in blood glucose levels in diabetic rats. The body weight of diabetic animals was also improved after daily administration of extracts. The extract also improved other altered biochemical parameters associated with diabetes. Also the changes in food intake, water intake, and weight of internal organs were also restored to normal by the prolonged effect of extract treatment. 1. Introduction Medicinal plants continue to provide valuable therapeutic agents, both in modern and in traditional medicine. As powders, extracts, decoctions, or infusions, plants are being used in the traditional systems of medicine in many parts of the world, especially in rural communities, for the control, management, and/or treatment of a variety of human and animal ailments. The current worldwide trends towards utilization of plant-derived natural remedies have, therefore, created a dire need for accurate and up-to-date information on the properties, uses, efficacy, safety, and quality of medicinal plant products [1]. The plant kingdom has become a target for the search by multinational drug and biologically active lead compounds [2]. Diabetes mellitus is a chronic metabolic disorder, mainly characterized by disruption in carbohydrates, protein, and fat metabolism caused by the complete or relative insufficiency of insulin action [3]. When the amount of blood glucose in the blood increases, for example, after a meal, it triggers the release of the hormone insulin from the pancreas. Insulin stimulates muscle and fat cells to remove glucose from the blood and stimulates the liver to metabolize glucose, causing the blood sugar level to decreases to the