Ethyl acetate fraction of Fagara zanthoxyloides root-bark possess antidiabetic property against alloxan-induced diabetes and its complications in Wistar rat model

Ethnopharmacological relevance: Fagara zanthoxyloides Lam., an African traditional medicinal plant, is used for treatment of malaria and diabetes.

Aim: To investigate the antidiabetic property of ethyl acetate fraction of F. zanthoxyloides root-bark (EAFFZRB) on alloxan-induced diabetic rats.

Materials and methods: Extraction, isolation, preliminary phytochemical analysis, and acute toxicity study of ethanol extract and fractions of F. zanthoxyloides root-bark were achieved using standard methods. Phyto-constituents in EAFFZRB were identified using HPLC technique. Forty-eight male Wistar rats (140-185 g) were randomized into 6 groups (n = 8). Groups 1 and 2 served as normal and negative controls, respectively. Diabetes was induced in test groups (2-6) using 150 mg/kg body weight (b.w) Alloxan monohydrate. Rats in groups 4-6 received of 200, 400 and 600 mg/kg b.w. EAFFZRB orally, respectively, for 21 days. Group 3 rats received 5 mg/kg b.w Glibenclamide. The effect of EAFFZRB on alterations in hematological, biochemical, and histological indices of study rats were assessed.

Results: Extraction of 3500 g ethanol extract yielded 15.71 g EAFFZRB. HPLC fingerprint of EAFFZRB indicated presence of luteolin, rutin, quercetin, apigenin, cinnamic acid and catechin. Diabetes triggered significant (p < 0.05) alterations in b.w., hematological, biochemical and histological indices of test rats relative to normal control. Treatment with EAFFZRB (LD₅₀ = 3807.9 mg/kg b.w.) resulted in remarkable improvements in altered b.w. changes, hematological, biochemical and histological parameters of diabetic rats.

Conclusion: The study demonstrated the antidiabetic potential of EAFFZRB, providing scientific basis for traditional use of the plant in treatment of diabetes and its complications.