Study on hypoglycemic effect of Berberis aristata on type 2 diabetic model rats

Abstract

Introduction: Berberis aristata is one of the herbs mentioned in all ancient scriptures of Ayurveda. It is a well-known medicinal plant in hilly areas of Nepal and its occurrence is reported from middle altitude areas. It is used traditionally for treating various disorders including diabetes mellitus.

Methods: The experiment was carried out for duration of 28 days on a total of 27 rats. The rats were divided into 4 groups – type 2 water control, type 2 glibenclamide treated, type 2 extract treated and normal treated group. Blood glucose, lipid profile and serum insulin level of all groups were compared at 0 day and 28 day. The renal function, liver function liver glycogen, MDA and GSH concentration value of all groups were compared on 28 day.

Results: The study revealed that type 2 rats treated with extract showed decrease in blood glucose level at 120 mins. The significant decrease was found in normal rat treated with extract in comparison to water control, glibenclamide and type 2 rats extract treated group when fed simultaneously with glucose on the 15 day. There was significant decrease in fasting glucose level in both type 2 and normal rat treated with extract on 28 day in comparison to 0 day.

Conclusion: Berberis aristata dry stem powder 80% ethanolic extract possesses significant hypoglycemic activity in Type 2 diabetic model rats and normal rats.