Abstract:
Effects of aqueous extract of alligator pear seed on normal and alloxan-induced diabetic rats were investigated
in 6 groups of rats (5 rats per group). Test groups were made diabetic with intra-peritoneal injection of alloxan
and treated with 300mg and 600mg/kg body weight of alligator pear seed extract. Two non-diabetic groups
were also administered with 300mg and 600mg/kg body weight extract.
The levels of blood glucose were examined in all 6 experimental groups. In diabetic rats, blood glucose levels
were significantly reduced (p < 0.05) by 73.26-78.24% on consumption of the extracts, with greater effect
exhibited by the 600mg/kg extract. In normal rats, blood glucose levels were significantly reduced (p < 0.05) by
34.68-38.9% on consumption of the seed extract.
Histological studies showed a degenerative effect on the pancreatic islet cells of diabetic rats. The result
suggested restorative (protective) effect of the extract on pancreatic islet cells.
Administration of aqueous extract of alligator pear seed may contribute significantly to the reduction of blood
glucose levels and can be useful in the treatment of diabetes.
