In Vivo Antidiabetic and Ex-vivo Antioxidant Activities of Dichloromethane Extract of Xerophyta Spekei

Abstract

Background The medicinal plant X. spekei is used among Embu and Mbeere communities to manage diabetes mellitus. However, there is limited information regarding its effectiveness. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to investigate the quantitative phytochemical and antidiabetic potential of the plant. Samples of the plant were collected and extracted using Dichloromethane (DCM). The quantitative analysis of phytochemicals was conducted using Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS). To evaluate the efficacy of the extract in managing diabetes, a total of seven groups were formed, each consisting of five mice. These groups included a normal control, a diabetic control, positive control (Glibenclamide), and four extract-administered groups (50, 100, 150, and 200mg/kg body weight). Alloxan monohydrate was used to induce diabetes. Blood glucose of the mice was determined on an hourly basis for the first six hours, and once after 12 and 24 hours on the first day. Thereafter, the blood glucose in mice was determined once a week for three weeks. During the experimental period of three weeks, body weights were determined on the initial day and after every seven days. After 21 days, the mice were euthanized and blood was drawn to determine any changes in renal and liver biochemical markers. The liver, kidney, and pancreas were also detached and their homogenates were used for ex vivo antioxidant assays. Results The classes of phytochemicals identified using GC-MS included flavonoids, phenolic acids, phytosterols, terpenoids, fatty acids, tocopherols and alkaloids. The DCM plant extract of X. spekei attenuated loss of body weight, hyperglycaemia, and aberrant biochemical parameters. Furthermore, the extract reduced levels of malonaldehyde and enhanced enzymatic antioxidant activities in diabetic mice. Conclusions The study confirms that the X. spekei plant extract contains phytochemicals with antioxidant and antidiabetic properties. Therefore, this finding authenticates the folkloric use of X. spekei in managing diabetes mellitus. The medicinal plant shows potential in developing anti-diabetic agents.