Beneficial effects of edible species, Allium roseum on metabolic parameters in diabetic rats, with potential regeneration of liver and kidney damages

Abstract

Diabetes is a globally prevalent and rapidly increasing health concern, prompting research into traditional remedies as complementary interventions. This study investigates the potential benefits of A. roseum (both fresh and dried) in normal and streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. Various parameters were examined, including body weight fluctuations, daily food intake, organs weights, plasma glucose levels and various metabolic parameters, along with the morphology, anatomy, and architecture of the kidney and liver. Diabetes was induced through a single intraperitoneal dose of STZ (65 mg/kg, b.w.). One hundred and fifty albino rats were divided into seven normal groups and seven diabetic groups: control and treated (2.5%, 5%, and 10% A. roseum fresh and dried, respectively) and a group received the standard diabetes drug, Glibenclamide. After 4 weeks, it was observed that lower doses of A. roseum significantly increased daily food intake in normal groups but also led to reduced weight gain. A correlation between weight loss and increased daily food intake indicated the slimming and appetite-enhancing effects of A. roseum. Compared to control diabetic rats, A. roseum-treated rats exhibited lower serum glucose levels, reduced serum cholesterol, and decreased urinary protein levels. Furthermore, triglyceride levels in A. roseum-treated diabetic animals were over 50% lower than in diabetic controls. Notably, treated diabetic rats showed significant regeneration of liver and kidney damage compared to the control group. In conclusion, the results suggest that A. roseum holds promise as an adjunctive therapy of functional food for diabetes.