Phytochemical Screening and Antihyperglycemic Effects of Stevia rebaudiana Leaves Extract on Glucose Loaded Rats

Abstract

This study focused on Stevia rebaudiana, a plant known for its sweet taste and unique medicinal properties in managing diabetes complications. The research aimed to evaluate the antihyperglycemic potential of crude ethanolic and aqueous extracts from Stevia rebaudiana leaves, utilizing the Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT) on albino rats subjected to glucose loading. Additionally, a thorough phytochemical analysis was conducted to identify essential secondary metabolites present in the extracts. The study involved five groups, each comprising equal number of male Wistar albino rats. Groups II, III, IV, and V received an oral solution of 8 gm/kg glucose. Group IV was administered a 2 gm/kg ethanolic extract, while Group V received a 2 gm/kg aqueous extract. Blood glucose levels (BGL) were monitored at specified intervals of 30, 60, 90, and 120 minutes. Phytochemical screening confirmed the presence of various phytoconstituents in the extracts. The ethanolic extract demonstrated a 39.49% reduction in blood glucose levels, and the aqueous extract exhibited a 35.39% reduction. Both extracts from Stevia rebaudiana leaves displayed significant antihyperglycemic effects in glucose-loaded rats after 120 minutes.