Effects of aqueous leaves extract of Ocimum gratissimum on blood glucose levels of streptozocin-induced diabetic wistar rats

Abstract

The hypoglycemic effects of aqueous leaves extract of Ocimum gratisimum was investigated in streptozocin-induced diabetic rats. A single administration of the extract at the doses of 250, 500 and 1000 mg/kg body weight was done. The aqueous extract at the dose of 500 mg/kg significantly lowered blood glucose level (P<0.05) of the diabetic rats by 81.3% after 24 h of extract administration. Preliminary phytochemical screening revealed the presence of reducing sugars, cardiac glycosides, resin, tannins, saponins, glycosides, flavonoids, glycerin and steroids. The median lethal dose (LD₅₀) in rats was calculated to be 1264.9 mg/kg body weight. In conclusion, the leaves extract of O. gratissmm possess antidiabetic in streptozocin-induced in diabetic rats.