Antihyperglycemic Properties Research Articles

Regulatory Activity of the Aqueous Extract of Picralima nitida Seeds (Apocynaceae) on the Glycemia of Normoglycemic and Hyperglycemic Wistar Rats

Picralima nitida is a plant commonly used in traditional African medicine for its antimalarial, antidiuretic, antidiarrheal, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. The aim of this work was to evaluate the effect of the aqueous extract of Picralima seeds nitida on the glycemia of rats. To achieve this objective, we performed phytochemical screening using the tube revelation method. The effect of the aqueous extract of Picralima nitida seeds on glycemia was evaluated in normoglycemic and hyperglycemic rats. The screening results indicated the presence of polyphenols, catechic tannins, flavonoids and saponins. The results of the effect of the extract on blood sugar showed that the extract did not cause hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia in normoglycemic rats. As for the effect of the extract on blood sugar in hyperglycemic rats, the extract caused a significant reduction in hyperglycemia induced in rats with glucose. The antihyperglycemic and antihypoglycemic properties that the seeds of Picralima nitida highlighted in this work, reveal that the seeds of this plant would be a powerful remedy in the treatment of diabetes thanks to its active ingredients.

Exploration of Antidiarrheal, Analgesic and Anti-hyperglycemic Potentials of Glycosmis Pentaphylla (Retz.) DC

Glycosmis pentaphylla (Retz.) DC., commonly known as "orangeberry" or "Ashsheora," is a medicinal plant from the Rutaceae family (Khare et al., 2007). It is widely used in traditional medicine for treating fever, respiratory disorders, skin diseases and inflammation. Phytochemical studies reveal that it contains alkaloids, flavonoids and coumarins with significant antimicrobial, antioxidant and hepatoprotective activities (Samy et al., 2008). The antidiarrheal, analgesic and anti-hyperglycemic properties of Glycosmis pentaphylla (Retz) DC were assessed in this investigation. Methanolic bark extracts of the plant were subjected to various in vivo assays to determine their pharmacological properties by using Swiss albino mice weighing 20–25 grams. G. pentaphylla (Retz.) DC demonstrates remarkable pharmacological activities, including analgesic, antidiarrheal and antihyperglycemic properties, supported by standard experimental data. Analgesic activity was assessed using formalin-induced writhing and hot plate tests in Swiss albino mice. The methanol extract significantly reduced pain responses by 48% compared to the standard diclofenac sodium's 68% (10 mg/kg). For antidiarrheal activity, the castor oil-induced diarrhea model revealed that the petroleum ether fraction reduced diarrhea frequency by 58% at 200 mg/kg, closely matching the standard loperamide's (5 mg/kg) 68% efficacy. Additionally, the antihyperglycemic activity was evaluated using the oral glucose tolerance test in diabetic mice, where the methanol extracts reduced blood glucose levels by 25%, nearly equivalent to the standard glibenclamide's (10 mg/kg) 30%. These findings validate the traditional uses of G. pentaphylla and highlight its potential for therapeutic applications. Bangladesh Pharmaceutical Journal 28(1): 44-48, 2025 (January)

Fibroblast growth factor 21: a novel link in the development and treatment of metabolic disorders

In recent years, fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21) has garnered increasing attention as a metabolic regulator. It plays a role in the development of tissue insulin sensitivity, exerts beneficial effects on carbohydrate and lipid metabolism, and exhibits antihyperglycemic and antilipidemic properties. Elevated FGF21 levels have been observed in patients with type 2 diabetes, obesity, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, and a range of other conditions. This may indicate either resistance to FGF21 or a compensatory response to metabolic stress. Evidence suggests that FGF21 can be considered both a marker of several metabolic disorders and a potential therapeutic agent for the treatment of significant societal health issues. Objective. The objective of this review is to summarize the data published to date in the literature, including meta-analyses, reviews, and original studies, focusing on the diagnostic and potential therapeutic role of FGF21 in metabolic disorders.

Phytochemical Profiling by UHPLC-ESI-MS/MS, In Vitro Antioxidant, In Vivo Antidiabetic, and Pro-Sexual Effects of Salvia balansae Noë Ex Coss. Flower Extract in Diabetic Male Rats.

Our study assessed the phytochemical composition and the effects of Salvia balansae flower aqueous extract (FAE) on sexual dysfunction in diabetic rats. Total phenolic and flavonoid content, quantification of phytochemicals by ultrahigh performance liquid chromatography (UHPLC)-electrospray ionization (ESI)-tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS) method, and in vitro antioxidant capacity of FAE extract were elucidated. For the in vivo study, diabetes was induced by one intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin (STZ) (40mg/kg), and treated diabetic rats were given FAE at 200mg/kg. Rats were subjected to a sexual incentive motivation test (SIM) and a mating behavior test, and then serum testosterone levels and sperm quality were analyzed. Our study indicates that FAE contained a large amount of phenolic compounds and flavonoids, and 13 constituents were quantified; cynaroside (3.8mg analyte/g extract) was the main compound, followed by rosmarinic acid (3.145mg analyte/g extract), thus confirming its high antioxidant capacity. FAE treatment significantly reduced blood glucose levels, improved sexual motivation and copulatory behavior, increased testosterone levels, and enhanced sperm quality in diabetic-treated rats compared to diabetic untreated rats. The present work demonstrates the therapeutic potential of S. balansae flowers in enhancing reproductive function in diabetic rats, potentially through its antioxidant, antihyperglycemic, and aphrodisiac properties.

Novel lactic acid bacteria with anti-hyperglycaemic properties: In vitro screening and probiotic assessment

Novel lactic acid bacteria with anti-hyperglycaemic properties: In vitro screening and probiotic assessment

Potentilla fulgens Wall ex Sims. exerts anti-diabetic effects by inhibiting α-amylase and α-glucosidase: deeper insights through molecular docking

Potentilla fulgens Wall ex Sims., a local medicinal plant used by the Khasi tribe of Meghalaya, India, has been reported to be rich in tannins, polyphenols, triterpenoids, and flavonoids. Although several studies have been conducted on its antidiabetic and anti-oxidant properties, most reports were done with crude polar extracts. In this study, we report the inhibitory effect of the non-polar chloroform extract of P. fulgens (NPFE) on α- amylase and α- glucosidase. The extract exhibited a potent antioxidant effect comparable to the reference standard as reflected by the IC50 values in the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assay. Further, the antihyperglycemic action of NPFE was observed in alloxan-induced diabetic mice from the Intraperitoneal Glucose Tolerance Test (IPGTT). Spectral and chromatographic analysis using FTIR and GC-MS/MS showed the presence of important functional groups and bioactive compounds. In silico molecular docking of the identified bioactive compounds carried out against α-amylase and α-glucosidase provided more insights into its antihyperglycemic properties.

Analysis of the metabolite profile of mistletoe leaves (Dendrophthoe pentandra (L.) Miq.) as an Epiphyte on Lime Using the GC-MS Method

Dendrophthoe pentandra (L.) Miq., a mistletoe species from the Loranthaceae family, can thrive as an epiphyte on various host plants, including lime trees. This mistletoe has potential as a herbal plant due to its bioactive properties, stemming from a diverse range of metabolites. Therefore, this analysis aims to identify different compounds and explore groups of compounds that may exhibit potential bioactivity in ethanolic extracts of D. pentandra leaves on lime, utilizing the GC-MS method. The analysis revealed a total of 68 detected metabolite compounds, comprising 51 main compounds that represent 90.49% of the total abundance. Notably, 16 dominant compounds were identified, including Melezitose (6.64%), 3-Methylmannoside (6.38%), ß-D-Mannofuranoside, methylated (4.76%), 3-O-Methyl-D-glucose (3.70%), Myo-Inositol, 4-C-methyl (31.29%), and Tetradecanoic acid, ethyl ester (3.81%). In terms of abundance based on compound class, carbohydrates account for 65%, fatty acids for 15%, and phenols for 10%, with the remaining compounds comprising other classes. The unique compounds found in mistletoe leaves on lime exhibit various bioactivities, such as antioxidant, anticancer, antibiotic, antiseptic, antihyperglycemic, antihistamine, antiandrogenic, antiarrhythmic, antiasthmatic, and diuretic properties. Further research is necessary to explore the bioactive compounds in mistletoe D. pentandra across various potential host plants and to conduct additional metabolomic analyses.

Evaluation of anti - diabetic activity of palmyrah (palm jaggery and palm honey) (Borassus flabellifer L.) against streptozotocin – nicotinamide induced diabetic wistar rats

Value-added products derived from Palmyrah (Borassus flabellifer L.), such as palm jaggery and palm honey, serve as alternative source of table sugar with a low glycemic index. During 2022–23, an experiment was to evaluate their anti-diabetic activity. The efficacy of palm jaggery and palm honey was assessed in diabetic rats at a dose of 200 mg/kg, and their effects were compared to those of oral glimepiride in a 28-days randomized control study. Biochemical estimations and histopathological analyses revealed that palm jaggery and palm honey possess anti-diabetic, antioxidant, anti-hyperglycemic, and insulinogenic properties. These Palmyrah products significantly enhanced insulin secretion by pancreatic ?-cells, leading to a marked reduction in blood glucose levels, serum uric acid, creatinine, and lipid peroxidise activity. Furthermore, the restoration of normal metabolic pathways reduced oxidative stress-induced mechanisms in diabetic rats treated with Palmyrah jaggery and honey. Hence, palm products could be used as an adjuvant in the treatment of diabetes mellitus.

Chemical and Biological Evaluation of Albizia lebbeck, Psoralea corylifolia, and Trifolium indicum

Herbal medicine, rooted in traditional practices, is increasingly recognized for its diverse therapeutic applications. Albizia lebbeck, Psoralea corylifolia, and Trifolium indicum are valued in traditional medicine for their potential health benefits, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and metabolic regulatory properties. This work delves into the rich spectral fingerprint ofmethanolic extracts from Albizia lebbeck, Psoralea corylifolia, and Trifolium indicum, aiming to elucidate their unique biochemical composition. Employing advanced spectroscopic techniques, including Flame and Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (AAS) and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), the minerals and bioactive compounds present in these herbal extracts were meticulously characterized. The study extends beyond conventional spectroscopic analysis by correlating the spectroscopic signatures with the biological potential ofthe extracts. This study unveiled biological evaluations including time and concentration-dependent antioxidants, anti-inflammatory, antihyperglycemic, analgesic, and anti-anxiety properties of these botanicals through rigorous in vitro and in vivo assessments. Each herbal extract was found to have characteristic chemical composition and biological potential. The present work not only contributes to the fundamental understanding of the spectral features of these herbs but also positions them as promising candidates in the realm of disease management.

Cinnamon for Metabolic Diseases and Their Cardiovascular and Hepatic Complications: A Mechanistic Review.

Cinnamon is one of the world's oldest and most popular spices, and is derived from the inner bark of several tree species from the genus Cinnamomum. During the last two decades, cinnamon has demonstrated beneficial metabolic effects not only in animal experiments but also in clinical trials. Even recent meta-analyses have shown the protective effects of cinnamon on different components of metabolic syndrome and their complications. In the last 5 years, several experimental studies have unraveled the intricate molecular mechanisms underlying the antihypertensive, antihyperglycemic, lipid-lowering, weight-lowering, and cardioprotective properties of cinnamon. This review paper will discuss how cinnamon and its active components, particularly cinnamaldehyde, suppress inflammation and oxidative stress, modulate mitochondrial dysfunction, and regulate glucose uptake, insulin resistance, lipogenesis, beta-oxidation, Ca2+ signaling, and other cellar events at the molecular level. Specifically, we will delve into the molecular mechanisms involved in the metabolic effects of cinnamon to provide a deeper insight into how cinnamon can bring such beneficial effects. This review hopes to encourage the use of cinnamon in clinical settings, guide the combination of cinnamon with other drugs used to treat different components of metabolic syndrome based on their mechanism of action, and support the concept of complementary medicine for metabolic diseases.

Comparative Analysis of Sustainable Extraction Methods and Green Solvents for Olive Leaf Extracts with Antioxidant and Antihyperglycemic Activities.

Olive leaves are agro-industrial waste that pose an environmental management problem. However, they contain polyphenolic compounds with important bioactive properties beneficial to human. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of two extraction technologies (pressurized liquid extraction and ultrasound-assisted extraction) combined with green solvents (pure water, 15% ethanol, and 15% glycerol) at 50 °C and 70 °C. The goal was to obtain extracts with both antioxidant capacity and antihyperglycemic properties from olive leaves. Pressurized liquid extraction with 15% glycerol at 70 °C was the most effective method for obtaining extracts rich in total polyphenols (19.46 mg GAE/g dw), with an antioxidant capacity of 4.11 mg/mL (inhibition capacity: IC50) and 500.26 µmol TE/g dw. For both extraction methods at 70 °C, glycerol was more effective at recovering phenolic acids, stilbenes and secoiridoid; while ethanol was more effective for recovering flavonols and phenylethanoids. Oleuropein was the most important polyphenol extracted from both pressurized liquid and ultrasound-assisted extractions, with concentrations of 171.48 µg/g dw and 246.70 µg/g dw, respectively. The extract obtained from pressurized liquid extraction with 15% ethanol at 70 °C exhibited significant inhibition (70%) of α-glucosidase enzymes, similar to the reference drug acarbose. In contrast, these extracts showed low inhibitory activity against the α-amylase enzyme. These findings can be applied to the development of functional foods and nutraceutical supplements aimed at managing postprandial glycemic response, offering a natural alternative for supporting type 2 diabetes management.

Effect of aqueous extract of Mondia whitei fruits on high sucrose-induced oxidative stress in Drosophila melanogaster

Background/Aim: High sugar intake plays an important role in oxidative stress, which has been linked to development of diseases like diabetes. In this study, the effect of aqueous extract of Mondia whitei (AEMW) fruits on high sucrose-induced oxidative stress in Drosophila melanogaster was investigated. Materials and Methods: Adult flies (1 – 3 days old) were exposed to graded doses of AEMW for 12 days to determine the safe dose. Based on this, new flies were grouped into 5 (n = 5; 40 flies per vial). Group 1 served as control and were fed with basal diet, and group 2 with basal diet containing 30% sucrose. Groups 3 and 4, in addition to diet containing 30 % sucrose, were exposed to 0.25 and 0.5 mg AEMW/g diet, respectively, and group 5 flies were exposed to diet containing 0.5 mg AEMW/g diet only. Treatment lasted for 7 days. Biochemical assays such as glucose level, markers of antioxidant and oxidative stress were carried out to assess the effect of high sucrose and/or AEMW on flies. Results: Doses of AEMW up to 0.5 mg/g diet was safe for the flies. High sucrose diet significantly (p < 0.05) increased the level of glucose and oxidative stress markers, and reduced the levels of antioxidant parameters when compared to the control. These changes were prevented by the doses of AEMW. Conclusion: It can be concluded that AEMW possesses anti-hyperglycemic and antioxidant properties, and could be suggested to act against oxidative stress induced by high sucrose in fruit flies.

Chloroquine-induced proinsulin misfolding in the endoplasmic reticulum underlies the attenuation of mature insulin synthesis.

Chloroquine (CQ), initially introduced for the clinical treatment of malaria, has subsequently been found to exhibit beneficial effects in combating diabetes mellitus. The anti-hyperglycemic properties of chloroquine may be attributed to its anti-inflammatory response and its ability to activate the insulin signaling pathway. However, both animal and clinical studies have yielded mixed results. Moreover, the impact of chloroquine on pancreatic β-cells, the key player of glycemic control, was not known. To fill this knowledge gap, we investigated the effects of chloroquine on pancreatic β-cell functions. Our findings revealed that while chloroquine did not alter proinsulin expression, it interfered with the conversion of proinsulin to insulin, resulting in reduced insulin levels. Using multiple independent approaches, we further showed that chloroquine disrupted proinsulin oxidative folding in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and impaired proinsulin trafficking from ER to Golgi, leading to ER stress and decreased insulin production. Notably, the elevated ER stress observed in chloroquine-treated β-cells was reversed upon knockout of insulin genes, indicating that chloroquine-induced β-cell ER stress primarily through the accumulation of misfolded proinsulin, rather than directly affecting ER homeostasis. Further investigation into the mechanisms underlying chloroquine-induced proinsulin misfolding revealed that the accumulation of misfolded proinsulin was not caused by autophagy inhibition or the alkaline pH of chloroquine. Instead, it was primarily due to the disruption of the interaction between proinsulin and protein disulfide isomerase (PDI). Our findings unveiled new mechanisms of chloroquine treatment and raised important safety considerations regarding the use of chloroquine in diabetes treatment.

Nano‐informatics Approach to Unravel the Intrinsic Interaction of Catharanthus roseus Fabricated Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles with Vindoline to Combat Diabetes

AbstractAn important aspect of the treatment of chronic cases of diabetes is the enhancement of insulin secretion with a decrease in intestinal glucose absorption. In this study, the prepared alcoholic Catharanthus roseus flower extract‐fabricated zinc oxide nanoparticles (FZNPs) were characterized by UV–vis spectrometer, dynamic light scattering (DLS), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), and fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) instruments and antihyperglycemic properties were tested at the molecular level by the in silico method. The synthesis of FZNPs is possible, and the characterization report showed that they have maximum optical properties at 361 nm, a small grain size (15.68 nm), and negative zeta potential (hydrophilic nature). The nanoparticles have a hexagonal structure and are surrounded by several functional groups. The in silico result supports that zinc oxide and related structures, as well as Zn (II) diisophthalate and vindoline, have good ADMET properties. The Zn(II) diisophthalate lead interaction tested with alpha‐glucosidase and has a binding affinity of ‐6.3 kcal/mol, whereas vindoline and KATP binding affinity ‐7.4 kcal/mol. The synthesized FZNPs have the ability to inhibit alpha‐glucosidase targets and block the KATP ion channel of beta cells. The FZNPs have the ability to reduce intestinal glucose absorption as well as promote insulin secretion, so they can effectively manage the hyperglycaemic condition of patients.

Investigating the antidiabetic properties of Apium graveolens extract and its inhibition of enzymes associated with hyperglycemia.

Apium graveolens Linn., also known as celery, is a member of the Apiaceae family and has shown promising pharmacological properties, including diabetes. Indeed, the current investigation aimed to investigate the potential inhibitory effects of A. graveolens seed aqueous extract on the digestive enzymes involved in carbohydrate metabolism and its efficiency in reducing blood sugar levels in diabetic mice induced by streptozotocin. I administered oral doses of an aqueous extract from A. graveolens seeds to both normal and diabetic animals to evaluate acute toxicity and its potential antidiabetic effects. I observed the glycemia and body weight of the animals for four weeks. In vitro tests were also done to see how the seed extract affected the activities of α-amylase and α-glucosidase. Following administration of the extract, diabetic mice showed a notable reduction in blood glucose concentration. This reduction was similar to the standard metformin treatment after two and four weeks. Moreover, A. graveolens demonstrated significant inhibitory effects on α-amylase and α-glucosidase activity, with IC50 values of 840.15±0.02 and 114.81±0.05, respectively. At 500mg/kg/day, histological analysis indicated degenerative alterations in pancreatic islet cells. These results indicate that the aqueous extract derived from the seeds of A. graveolens possesses promising antihyperglycemic properties in diabetic mice, along with notable inhibition of α-amylase and α-glucosidase activity. Further investigation is needed to characterize the active compounds present in A. graveolens seeds.

In vitro and in vivo anti-hyperglycemia effects of extract of Faloak (Sterculia quadrifida R.Br.) leaves

Despite the availability of various conventional treatments, diabetes mellitus remains a serious global health concern with an increasing prevalence. This trend underscores the need to explore potential natural alternatives. Faloak, an indigenous plant of Indonesia, has been traditionally used for various health conditions, yet its potential as an anti-hyperglycemic agent has not been comprehensively investigated. This research focused on identifying the ingredients of Faloak leaves that could lower blood sugar levels and confirm these effects in laboratory and animal models. At various concentrations, the in vitro evaluation assessed the inhibitory effect of α-amylase and α-glucosidase enzymes. For in vivo evaluation, male mice were administered glucose, sucrose, and starch after being pretreated with Faloak leaf extract, and their blood glucose levels were monitored for 120 min. Faloak leaf extract demonstrated significant inhibitory activity against α-amylase and α-glucosidase enzymes. The IC50 values for sucrose and maltose inhibition were 30.37 and 65.36 mg/mL, respectively, while α-amylase inhibition showed an IC50 of 27.02 mg/mL. In the in vivo test, mice pretreated with the extract exhibited significantly decreased blood glucose levels at 120 min compared to the control group. These findings indicate that the ethanolic extract of Faloak leaves possesses promising anti-hyperglycemic activities, positioning it as a potential candidate for developing plant-based blood glucose management. Our results demonstrate that Faloak leaf extract exhibits substantial anti-hyperglycemic properties, inhibiting vital digestive enzymes and effectively reducing postprandial glucose levels. Identifying active ingredients paves the way for further research to elucidate specific bioactive compounds and their mechanisms of action

The Effect of Rooibos Tea (Aspalathus linearis) Consumption on Human Health Outcomes: A Systematic Literature Review

Rooibos tea, traditionally consumed by Indigenous populations, is naturally caffeine-free and contains unique polyphenols with strong antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-hyperglycaemic properties. As such, a systematic review was conducted following PRISMA 2020 guidelines (PROSPERO ID: CRD42023467829) to evaluate the potential association between rooibos tea consumption and health outcomes. Relevant articles were searched from journal inception until October 2024 using five electronic databases (CINAHL, MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science Core Collection and Google Scholar) and one register (Cochrane Clinical Register of Controlled Trials). Included studies involved consumption of any rooibos tea beverage or supplement in humans 18 years or older and reported any health outcomes measured pre- and post-intervention. Following article screening and full text review, eight studies (175 participants) fulfilled the inclusion criteria and investigated the effects of rooibos consumption on biological [blood (n = 6); urine (n = 1)] and physiological [heart metrics (n = 2); muscle strength (n = 1)] health markers. Based on the included studies, the findings suggest benefits of rooibos consumption, particularly related to cardiometabolic health, with five studies supporting significant (p < 0.05) results. However, there is insufficient evidence to support the health benefits of rooibos consumption given the limited studies meeting inclusion criteria, the narrow scope of markers assessed and interstudy heterogeneity.

Glycemic properties of noodles produced from acha (Digitaria exilis), fig leaves (Ficus exasperata) and wheat (Triticum aestivum) and effect on biochemical and hemodynamic parameters in diabetic-hypertensive rats

In this study, the anti-diabetic and anti-hypertensive properties of wheat (Triticum aestivum) noodles was improved by inclusion of acha (Digitaria exilis) and fig (Ficus exasperata) leaf, which are plants established to have anti-hyperglycemic and anti-hypertensive properties respectively. The glycemic indices and the effects of the formulated noodles on fasting blood glucose levels, hemodynamic blood pressures and enzymes linked to type-2 diabetes (α-amylase and α-glucosidase) and hypertension [arginase and angiotensin 1 converting enzyme (ACE)] were assessed. The results revealed that inclusion of acha and fig leaf in the noodles caused significant reduction in glycemic indices, fasting blood glucose and systolic and diastolic blood pressure and modulated the activities of enzymes linked to type-2 diabetes and hypertension in the rats. Conclusively, the results revealed that wheat noodles fortified with acha flour and fig leaf could be suitable meal choice for diabetic and hypertensive patients.

Chemical composition and pharmacological aspects of Malaysian stingless bee propolis: An up‑to‑date systematic review.

Propolis is a sticky substance produced by stingless bees for construction and defence of their hive. It has notable anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antibacterial, antifungal, anti-hyperglycemic, and wound healing effects. The present review summarised and examined the phytochemical properties, mode of action and current research prospects of Malaysian propolis. A database search using Google Scholar, Web of Science and ScienceDirect generated 780 references; 30 relevant articles were included in the present review, of which 23 were in vitro studies and 7 were in vivo or animal studies. Propolis demonstrated antioxidant, antibacterial, antifungal, anti-inflammatory and anti-hyperglycemic properties, indicating potential as a wound healing agent. Despite favourable findings, due to the scarcity of studies in the literature, more in-depth research and clinical validation on the synergistic effects, efficacy and optimum dosage of propolis are needed.

Evaluation of stevia leaf (<em>Stevia rebaudiana</em> Bertoni) powder as sugar-substitute in cashew nut fortified cookies

Stevia rebaudiana is an herbal supplement used as a substitute for sugar in food processing. Considering the potentials of stevia as a zero-calorie-natural sweetener, this study aimed to assess the antioxidant and anti-hyperglycemic properties of stevia (Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni) leaf powder (SLP) to find its suitability to formulate low-calorie foods. Extracts of SLP obtained with hexane, ethyl acetate, and methanol were evaluated for DPPH, ABTS+, FRAP and enzyme inhibitory assays. Adopting a standard recipe, five different cookie types were prepared by incorporating varying proportions of SLP and evaluated by a 30 semi-trained panel. The nutritional composition and shelf-life stability were also evaluated. SLP had moisture (8.0 %), ash (13.5 %), crude protein (12.4 %), crude fat (6.9 %), crude fiber (18.3 %), and carbohydrate (40.9 %). Sensory results showed that the cookie formulated with the lowest amount of SLP (T1= 2.0g) had the highest overall acceptability with the highest preference for appearance and smell. The cookie type formulated with the highest amount of SLP (T4= 8.0g) had the highest crude protein (13.50%), crude fiber (21.76%), and lowest carbohydrate contents (40.88%). The keeping quality of the cookies remained acceptable within the storage period. These results suggest that acceptable quality cashew nut fortified cookies could be prepared by replacing sucrose with stevia leaf powder