Therapeutic Attributes of Stevia rebaudiana Leaves in Diabetic Animal Model

Abstract

Background: Medicinal plants contain organic chemicals with different properties. As synthetic medications can create deleterious effects, therefore, use of safe natural medicinal adjuncts like Stevia rebaudiana is endorsed. Objectives: The purpose of this study was to assess the antidiabetic, antioxidant, antihyperlipidemic, hepatoprotective and renoprotective attributes of Stevia rebaudiana leaves in the diabetic rat model. Methodology: Single dose of alloxan monohydrate was given to induce Diabetes mellitus in the rats. Plant extract treatment along with synthetic drug glibenclamide was given to rats for about 28 days to check their efficacies (antidiabetic, antioxidant, antihyperlipidemic, hepatoprotective and reno-protective) by using commercially available kits. Results: Treatment showed a significant decrease in blood glucose, glycated hemoglobin HbA1c, and a rise in insulin, although it could not normalize these biomarkers after 28 days of treatment. Catalase (CAT) activity was restored yet it was not significantly improved in the case of Superoxide Dismutase (SOD) and Reduced Glutathione (GSH). Changes in lipid peroxidation products were trivial. Ingestion of Stevia rebaudiana significantly reduced Alanine Transaminase (ALT) and Aspartate Transaminase (AST) levels, however, changes in Gamma-Glutamyl Transpeptidase (GGT), and Total Protein (TP) were not significant. Similarly, treatment with Stevia rebaudiana reduced serum urea, creatinine and urinary albumin in diabetic animals. Conclusion: It is established that Stevia rebaudiana leaves have multiple benefits and can be an exceptional nutraceutical.