Evaluation of Neuroprotective Effect of <i>Ficus benghalensis</i> against Alloxan Induced Diabetic Neuropathy in Rats

Abstract

Neuropathic pain in diabetics is characterized by both hyperalgesia and allodynia. This is attributed to both uncontrolled glycemia and the further complications which it leads to. The objective of the study was to evaluate the neuroprotective effect of methanolic leaf extract of Ficus benghalensis against alloxan induced diabetic neuropathy in rats.Material and methods:Experimental diabetes was induced in wistar albino rats by single intraperitoneal injection of Alloxan monohydrate (150 mg/kg). The methanolic extract of leaves of Ficus benghalensis at a dose of 200 and 400 mg/kg body weight was administered at single dose per day to diabetes induced rats for a period of 28 days. Neuropathic pain was assessed in diabetic rats with various painful procedures. hot and cold water tail immersion test, pinprick test, cold allodynia, hot plate test, actophotometer and rota-rod tests were performed to assess the degree of thermal, mechanical, cold hyperalgesia and locomotor activity as well as motor co-ordination.Results:Animals treated with methanolic extract of Ficus benghalensis (200, and 400 mg/kg p.o.) showed good results in different parameters such as thermal allodynia (hot and cold), thermal hyperalgesia and motor co-ordination in comparison with diabetic control group. Thus, from this study we conclude that Ficus benghalensis exhibits significant neuroprotective activities against Alloxan-induced diabetic neuropathy in rats.