In vitro evaluation of the antidiabetic potential of aqueous and ethanolic extracts of Stemona tuberosa tubers and leaves

Diabetes mellitus is a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by persistent hyperglycaemia and progressive complications. Inhibition of carbohydrate-digesting enzymes and prevention of protein glycation are important therapeutic strategies for controlling postprandial hyperglycaemia and delaying diabetic complications. The present study evaluated the in vitro antidiabetic potential of aqueous and ethanolic extracts of tubers and leaves of Stemona tuberosa by assessing α-amylase inhibitory activity and inhibition of non-enzymatic haemoglobin glycation. All extracts exhibited concentration-dependent α-amylase inhibition, with the ethanolic tuber extract showing the highest inhibitory activity, comparable to the standard drug acarbose. Similarly, the extracts significantly inhibited haemoglobin glycation, indicating their potential to prevent advanced glycation end product formation. Ethanolic extracts demonstrated superior activity compared to aqueous extracts, and tubers were more potent than leaves. These findings suggest that Stemona tuberosa, particularly its ethanolic tuber extract, possesses promising antidiabetic potential and may serve as a natural source of bioactive compounds for diabetes management.