Effect of Trigonella foenum (methi) on fasting blood glucose levels in alloxan induced diabetes in rabbits

Abstract

Background: Water-retaining fibers, especially the mucilaginous compounds, such as the gel fiber present in Fenugreek seeds, reduce the rate of glucose absorption and may also delay gastric emptying thereby preventing the rise in blood sugar levels following a meal. In addition to its hypoglycemic effects, the hyperlipidemic effect of Fenugreek fibers has also been documented. The objective of the study was to study the effect of Trigonella foenum (methi) on Fasting Blood Glucose levels in Alloxan induced diabetes in Rabbits. Methods: Fenugreek seed extract was prepared. Study was carried out on alloxan induced diabetic rabbits. They were prepared for the study. Then they were grouped into 5 groups depending upon the drugs used for them. The drug solutions were prepared and administered to diabetic rabbits. The blood sugar levels were recorded before and after treatment for first 15 days and once in week for next three weeks. Daily fasting blood sugar readings were taken. The blood glucose was determined with standard procedures and methods. Results: Alcohol extract of fenugreek seeds using soxhlet apparatus produced significant (P <0.001) reduction in the blood glucose levels in the alloxan induced diabetic rabbits in the 3 doses i.e. 0.5 gm/kg, 1 gm/kg and 1.5 gm/kg body weight after oral administration compared to the vehicle treated group (5 ml of 2% gum acacia) over the period of 5 weeks. The standard oral anti-diabetic drug (Metformin) in the dose of 62.5 mg/kg body weight also reduced the blood glucose level in the Alloxan induced diabetic rabbits over 5 weeks period of treatment compared to vehicle group. (5 ml of 2% gum acacia). Conclusions: All the three doses of Trigonella foenum significantly (P<0.001) reduced blood glucose levels in Alloxan induced diabetic rabbits over a period of 5 weeks in comparison to vehicle (5 ml of 2% of gum acacia) orally.