Ethyl acetate fraction of Fagara zanthoxyloides root-bark possess antidiabetic property against alloxan-induced diabetes and its complications in Wistar rat model

Abstract

Ethnopharmacological relevanceFagara zanthoxyloides Lam., an African traditional medicinal plant, is used for treatment of malaria and diabetes. AimTo investigate the antidiabetic property of ethyl acetate fraction of F. zanthoxyloides root-bark (EAFFZRB) on alloxan-induced diabetic rats. Materials and methodsExtraction, isolation, preliminary phytochemical analysis, and acute toxicity study of ethanol extract and fractions of F. zanthoxyloides root-bark were achieved using standard methods. Phyto-constituents in EAFFZRB were identified using HPLC technique. Forty-eight male Wistar rats (140–185 g) were randomized into 6 groups (n = 8). Groups 1 and 2 served as normal and negative controls, respectively. Diabetes was induced in test groups (2–6) using 150 mg/kg body weight (b.w) Alloxan monohydrate. Rats in groups 4–6 received of 200, 400 and 600 mg/kg b.w. EAFFZRB orally, respectively, for 21 days. Group 3 rats received 5 mg/kg b.w Glibenclamide. The effect of EAFFZRB on alterations in hematological, biochemical, and histological indices of study rats were assessed. ResultsExtraction of 3500 g ethanol extract yielded 15.71 g EAFFZRB. HPLC fingerprint of EAFFZRB indicated presence of luteolin, rutin, quercetin, apigenin, cinnamic acid and catechin. Diabetes triggered significant (p < 0.05) alterations in b.w., hematological, biochemical and histological indices of test rats relative to normal control. Treatment with EAFFZRB (LD50 = 3807.9 mg/kg b.w.) resulted in remarkable improvements in altered b.w. changes, hematological, biochemical and histological parameters of diabetic rats. ConclusionThe study demonstrated the antidiabetic potential of EAFFZRB, providing scientific basis for traditional use of the plant in treatment of diabetes and its complications.