Abstract:
The effect of combined aqueous leaves extracts of Ocimum gratissimum and Gongronema latifolium on alloxan-induced diabetic Rattus norvegicus was investigated for 28 days. Lethal dose (LD50) and phytochemical compositions were determined by standard methods. Phytochemical analyses to determine the levels of alkaloid, flavonoid, tannin and saponin content of O.gratissimum and G. latifolium were done using standard methods. A total of 90 rats were divided into six groups (1-6) of fifteen rats per group, with each group comprising of three replicates of five rats each. Diabetes was induced in the rats by injection of 150mg/kg of crystalline powdered alloxan monohydrate. Treatment groups 2, 3 and 4 had diabetic rats administered 100, 250 and 350mg/kg of combined extracts respectively. Group1 (normal control, non-diabetic rats), 5 (standard control, diabetic rats) and 6 (negative control, diabetic rats) were administered distilled water, standard drug (glibenclamide) and distilled water respectively. All the administration was done by oral intubation. Changes in bodyweight blood glucose levels, triglycerides, high density lipoprotein cholesterol and low density lipoprotein cholesterol were determined using standard methods on days 0, 7, 14, 21 and 28. The lethal dose(LD50) of the mixed extract was estimated to be ≥5000mg/kg of bodyweight of rat. The aqueous extract of O.gratissimum had high presence of reducing sugars, tannin, steroids, alkaloids, flavonoids, and phenol. Soluble carbohydrates, hydrogencyanide, terpenoid and saponins were slightly present. The aqueous extract of G.latifolium contains tannin and alkaloids in proportionate abundance, followed by reducing sugars, soluble carbohydrates, flavonoids and phenol. Anon-significant decrease (p>0.05) was recorded in the bodyweight of rats. Significant decreases (p<0.05) were recorded in the blood glucose levels of rats. There were no significant differences (p>0.05) in the lipid profiles. The result therefore, suggests that G.latifolium and O.gratissimum have hypoglycaemic, effects on all oxan–induced diabetic rats. Generally, they are non-toxic even at highdose of 350mg/kg bodyweight.
