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Research Journal of Medical Sciences

ISSN: Online 1993-6095
ISSN: Print 1815-9346
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Antidiabetic and Pancreatoprotective Effects of Ethanolic Leaf Extract of Cnidoscolus Aconitifolius in Alloxan‐Induced Diabetic Female Wistar Rats

Okoroigbo Franklin Chiedozie, Ohanme Eugene Ohams, Anyichie Nonye Eucharia, Lotanna Somtoo Akudu, Ezinwanne Emmanuel Enyinnaya, Akunna Ujunwa Lynda, Malize Chinwe Grace, Akwuba Chinenye Francisca and N. Nwakelu Benjamin
Page: 9-17 | Received 20 Oct 2025, Published online: 22 Dec 2025

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https://doi.org/makrjms.2025.6.9.17

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Abstract

Diabetes mellitus is a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by hyperglycemia due to insulin deficiency or resistance. The increasing global prevalence of diabetes, particularly in developing nations, underscores the need for affordable, plant‐based therapies. Cnidoscolus aconitifolius (Chaya), a nutrient‐rich leafy plant, has been traditionally used in diabetes management. This study evaluated the antidiabetic and pancreatoprotective effects of the ethanolic leaf extract of C. aconitifolius in alloxan‐induced diabetic female Wistar rats. Forty‐one female Wistar rats (150–250 g) were divided into four groups: normal control, diabetic control, 100 mg/kg extract‐treated, and 500 mg/kg extract‐treated. Diabetes was induced using alloxan monohydrate (150 mg/kg, i.p.). The ethanolic extract of C. aconitifolius was administered orally for 14 days. Blood glucose levels were measured every two days. Phytochemical screening and acute toxicity (LD50) tests were performed using standard protocols. Histopathological examination of pancreatic tissues was carried out after treatment. Phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of flavonoids, tannins, saponins, alkaloids, steroids, and cardiac glycosides. The extract showed no acute toxicity up to 9000 mg/kg. A significant dose‐dependent reduction (p < 0.001) in blood glucose levels was observed in treated groups compared to diabetic controls. Rats receiving 500 mg/kg extract showed the highest hypoglycemic effect. Histological studies indicated marked regeneration of pancreatic ß‐cells and restoration of acinar structures in extract‐treated rats, confirming the extract’s antioxidative and tissue‐protective effects. The ethanolic leaf extract of Cnidoscolus aconitifolius demonstrated significant antidiabetic and pancreatoprotective activities in alloxan‐induced diabetic rats. These effects are likely mediated by its flavonoid and saponin content, which enhance insulin secretion and protect ß‐cells from oxidative injury. The findings support the therapeutic potential of C. aconitifolius as a natural remedy for diabetes mellitus. Further studies are recommended to isolate active compounds and establish clinical efficacy and safety.

How to cite this article:

Okoroigbo Franklin Chiedozie, Ohanme Eugene Ohams, Anyichie Nonye Eucharia, Lotanna Somtoo Akudu, Ezinwanne Emmanuel Enyinnaya, Akunna Ujunwa Lynda, Malize Chinwe Grace, Akwuba Chinenye Francisca and N. Nwakelu Benjamin. Antidiabetic and Pancreatoprotective Effects of Ethanolic Leaf Extract of Cnidoscolus Aconitifolius in Alloxan‐Induced Diabetic Female Wistar Rats.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.36478/makrjms.2025.6.9.17
URL: https://www.makhillpublications.co/view-article/1815-9346/makrjms.2025.6.9.17