Evaluation of the anti-hyperglycemic and anti-dyslipidemic potential of the hydroethanolic extract of Graptophyllum pictum (Acanthaceae) aerial parts in streptozotocin-nicotinamide-induced diabetic Wistar rats

ABSTRACT Context Diabetes is a chronic metabolic disorder that affects approximately 537 million people worldwide. Modern diabetic therapies include adverse effects and are expensive. Scientists are often exploring affordable natural treatments with little or no side effects. Graptophyllum pictum was chosen for the study due to its traditional claim of reducing blood glucose levels and established glucosidase inhibitory action. Objective In this experimental work, the hydroethanolic extract of G. pictum (L.) Griff aerial part was evaluated for hypoglycemic, antihyperglycemic, antidyslipidemic, and protective effects on liver enzymes in streptozotocin (STZ)-nicotinamide (NA)-induced diabetic Wistar rats. Methods Diabetes was induced in Wistar rats using an intraperitoneal injection of STZ (60 mg/kg) just fifteen minutes after injecting NA (120 mg/kg). Glibenclamide (10 mg/kg) as a standard and hydroethanolic extract (250 and 500 mg/kg) were used for the treatment of diabetic rats. Throughout the study (21 days), normal and diabetic control animals were given only normal saline (5mL/kg, p.o). Results The findings revealed that hydroethanolic extract did not have any significant hypoglycemic activity but had a significant effect ( P