Path of Science: International Electronic Scientific Journal

Medicinal plants are globally used in the management of diabetes mellitus, with some meeting up with scientific preconditional assessments by way of ascertaining the actual hypoglycemic effects of such plants. Diabetes mellitus is a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by persistent hyperglycemia, often leading to severe complications if left unmanaged. The present study evaluates the effects of acute and chronic administration of hot water extract of Vernonia amygdalina (bitter leaf) (HWE-VA) on streptozotocin (STZ)-induced hyperglycemic rats. A total of 20 healthy male Wistar rats (205-251 g) were divided into two equal groups, viz control – administered with equi-volume of distilled water and Experimental – made severely hyperglycemic with streptozotocin (STZ) via the intraperitoneal route and administered with crude hot water extract of V. amygdalina (750 mg/kg). Experimental groups received either the extract or remained as hyperglycemic controls, with parameters including body weight, food intake, faecal output, water intake, and urine output monitored over time. Results demonstrated a significant increase in body weight, reduced food intake, and moderated water consumption in the extract-treated groups compared to hyperglycemic controls (P<0.05). These findings suggest that Vernonia amygdalina may possess antihyperglycemic properties, potentially improving metabolic parameters in diabetic conditions. Further research is needed to elucidate the mechanisms underlying these effects and assess their therapeutic potential for diabetes management. 

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