In-vitro anti-oxidative and anti-diabetic properties of Pithecellobium and Prosopis extracts.
Journal name: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
Original article title: Comparative evaluation of in-vitro anti-oxidative and anti-diabetic properties of hydroethanolic extracts of pithecellobium dulce and prosopis cineraria leaf and flower
The WJPR includes peer-reviewed publications such as scientific research papers, reports, review articles, company news, thesis reports and case studies in areas of Biology, Pharmaceutical industries and Chemical technology while incorporating ancient fields of knowledge such combining Ayurveda with scientific data.
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Swaati Sharma, Nitika Verma, Veena Garg and Nidhi Sharma
World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research:
(An ISO 9001:2015 Certified International Journal)
Full text available for: Comparative evaluation of in-vitro anti-oxidative and anti-diabetic properties of hydroethanolic extracts of pithecellobium dulce and prosopis cineraria leaf and flower
Source type: An International Peer Reviewed Journal for Pharmaceutical and Medical and Scientific Research
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
Herbal plants have been utilized for centuries for various applications, particularly in medicine due to their richness in biologically active compounds and antioxidants. These natural substances can play a significant role in managing numerous health conditions, including Diabetes Mellitus (DM), which is characterized by elevated blood sugar levels due to insulin defects. The study investigated the antidiabetic and antioxidative properties of the hydroethanolic extracts of Pithecellobium dulce and Prosopis cineraria, both belonging to the Fabaceae family, to assess their potential in controlling diabetes and oxidative stress.
Antidiabetic Activity of Plant Extracts
The research highlighted the inhibition of two key digestive enzymes, α-amylase and α-glucosidase, which are crucial in carbohydrate metabolism and play a role in increasing postprandial hyperglycemia. The leaf extract of P. dulce exhibited the most potent inhibitory effect against both enzymes, demonstrating a correlation between increased concentration of the extract and enhanced inhibition. The study suggests that these plants may serve as potential alternatives to conventional antidiabetic medications, which often carry side effects.
Antioxidative Potential
Antioxidants are vital for combating oxidative stress, and this study assessed the antioxidant capacity of both P. dulce and P. cineraria using various assays, including DPPH radical scavenging and enzymatic antioxidant activity (SOD, CAT, and peroxidase). Results indicated a significant increase in antioxidant activity with higher concentrations of the extracts. The leaf extract of P. dulce again showed superior efficacy compared to the flower extracts, suggesting its potential as a natural source of antioxidants in managing oxidative damage associated with diabetes.
Metal Chelating and Hydroxyl Radical Scavenging Activities
The study also evaluated the chelating activity of the plant extracts against ferrous ions, which can contribute to oxidative stress. Both plant extracts displayed concentration-dependent metal chelation. The hydroxyl radical scavenging ability was assessed, revealing that the leaf extract of P. dulce possessed the strongest inhibition against hydroxyl radicals, which are known for causing cellular damage. Such findings underscore the dual role of these extracts in both managing diabetes and mitigating oxidative stress.
Conclusion
The study concludes that the hydroethanolic extracts of P. dulce and P. cineraria demonstrate noteworthy potential in managing diabetes and its associated oxidative stress in vitro. Specifically, the leaf extract of P. dulce was identified as the most effective. These findings pave the way for further in vivo studies and potential explorations into the practical application of these extracts in developing antidiabetic therapies.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is the focus of the study on Pithecellobium dulce and Prosopis cineraria?
The study evaluates the in-vitro anti-diabetic and anti-oxidative properties of hydro-ethanolic extracts from the leaves and flowers of Pithecellobium dulce and Prosopis cineraria.
What enzymes are involved in managing postprandial hyperglycemia in diabetes?
The study focuses on α-amylase and α-glucosidase enzymes, whose inhibition helps reduce postprandial hyperglycemia, a significant factor in managing diabetes mellitus.
How were the plant extracts prepared for the experiments?
The leaves and flowers of both plants were dried, powdered, and extracted using a soxhlet apparatus with 50% ethanol to create the hydro-ethanolic extracts used in the assays.
Which plant extract showed the highest anti-diabetic activity?
The leaf extract of Pithecellobium dulce demonstrated the highest significant inhibitory effect on both α-amylase and α-glucosidase compared to the extracts from Prosopis cineraria.
What methods were used to evaluate antioxidant activity in the study?
The study assessed antioxidant activity using several assays, including superoxide dismutase, catalase, peroxidase activity, DPPH radical scavenging, hydroxyl radical scavenging, and metal chelating assays.
What were the overall findings regarding the plant extracts?
Both Pithecellobium dulce and Prosopis cineraria exhibited potential anti-diabetic and antioxidant activities, with the leaf extract of P. dulce showing superior effects.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “In-vitro anti-oxidative and anti-diabetic properties of Pithecellobium and Prosopis extracts.”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.
1) Activity:
The term 'activity' in this context refers to the biological actions performed by the leaf and flower extracts. Researchers assess both antidiabetic and antioxidative activities through various in vitro tests to determine how effective the herbs are in preventing certain disease conditions, especially diabetes and oxidative stress.
2) Flavonoid:
Flavonoids are bioactive compounds commonly found in plants, known for their antioxidative and anti-inflammatory properties. They play a crucial role in the medicinal efficacy of Pithecellobium dulce and Prosopis cineraria extracts, contributing to their potential in managing diabetes and protecting against free radical damage.
3) Water:
Water is a vital solvent used in the extraction process of plant compounds. In the study, hydro-ethanolic extracts utilize water and ethanol to dissolve bioactive substances from plant materials. This process is essential for preserving the efficacy of the extracts and ensuring accurate results during biological assays.
4) Sugar:
Sugar, in the context of diabetes, refers to glucose levels in the blood. The study focuses on how the extracts inhibit enzymes responsible for sugar absorption, thereby reducing postprandial hyperglycemia. Managing blood sugar levels is crucial for diabetes control and preventing complications associated with the disease.
5) Drug:
The term 'drug' denotes substances utilized for therapeutic purposes. The study evaluates the potential of plant extracts as natural drugs to manage diabetes and oxidative stress, emphasizing the importance of discovering effective, less toxic alternatives to conventional synthetic drugs already available in the market.
6) Toxicity:
Toxicity is an important consideration in pharmacology, assessing the harmful effects of substances. The study highlights that plant extracts are traditionally regarded as safe compared to synthetic drugs, with fewer side effects. This aspect favors their use as therapeutic agents, emphasizing the goal of low toxicity in treatments.
7) Blood:
Blood is a body fluid essential for transporting nutrients, gases, and waste. Its relevance in this study revolves around glucose levels, particularly postprandial hyperglycemia. The ability of the extracts to manage blood sugar levels directly informs their potential effectiveness in diabetes treatment and broader cardiovascular health.
8) Pharmacological:
Pharmacological refers to the study of drug actions and interactions in living organisms. The research investigates the pharmacological properties of the extracts, such as antidiabetic and antioxidative effects, demonstrating their potential applications in medicine as natural treatments for managing diabetes and oxidative stress.
9) Medicine:
Medicine encompasses various practices and substances used to treat diseases. This study's examination of Pithecellobium dulce and Prosopis cineraria aligns with the broader field of traditional medicine, aiming to explore the therapeutic effects of natural plant extracts in addressing metabolic disorders like diabetes in a scientifically validated manner.
10) Science (Scientific):
Science refers to the systematic study of the natural world through observation and experimentation. In this context, the research employs scientific methodologies to evaluate the extracts' properties, aims to establish their medicinal efficacy, and contributes to the understanding of plant-based treatments in managing diabetes and oxidative stress.
11) Sharman (Śarma, Sarmā, Sarma, Sharma, Śarman):
Sharma is one of the authors involved in the study, representing contributing researchers from Banasthali University. As a co-author, Sharma's work reflects collaboration in scientific inquiry. The inclusion of her name also signals the importance of diverse expertise in the research process and its credibility.
12) Vina (Vinā, Vīṇā, Vīnā, Viña, Viṉā):
Veena Garg is the lead author of this study, and her contributions denote leadership in the research field. Her past and ongoing work in the area of bioscience and biotechnology influences the study's design and findings, thereby playing a substantial role in advancing knowledge on plant-based therapeutic potentials.
13) Post:
In this context, 'post' relates to postprandial hyperglycemia, which is the increased blood sugar following meal consumption. The study focuses on understanding how plant extracts can inhibit enzymes that break down carbohydrates, thus reducing post-meal sugar spikes, a crucial element in managing diabetes effectively.
14) Inflammation:
Inflammation is a biological response to harmful stimuli, often associated with chronic conditions like diabetes. The study investigates the antioxidative properties of the extracts, which may play a role in reducing inflammation linked to oxidative stress, a common complication in diabetic patients and other metabolic disorders.
15) Discussion:
Discussion refers to the section of the research where findings are interpreted and contextualized within existing literature. This includes exploring implications of the results, potential mechanisms behind observed activities, and suggestions for future research directions, providing a comprehensive understanding of the extracts' relevance in diabetes management.
16) Fragrance:
Fragrance relates to the pleasant smell derived from certain plants. In the context of medicinal plants, fragrance not only signifies the presence of volatile compounds but also may contribute to their therapeutic effects. Understanding this aspect can assist in the evaluation of overall plant properties and applications in aromatherapy.