Glucose tolerance tests with Flacourtia jangomas fruits.
Journal name: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
Original article title: Oral glucose tolerance tests with flacourtia jangomas (lour.) raeusch. (salicaceae) fruits
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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Nasrin Akter Shova, M. M. Maidul Islam, Khoshnur Jannat and Mohammed Rahmatullah
World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research:
(An ISO 9001:2015 Certified International Journal)
Full text available for: Oral glucose tolerance tests with flacourtia jangomas (lour.) raeusch. (salicaceae) fruits
Source type: An International Peer Reviewed Journal for Pharmaceutical and Medical and Scientific Research
Doi: 10.20959/wjpr201818-13618
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
Diabetes is a condition characterized by elevated blood glucose levels due to impaired glucose metabolism, which can arise from various factors including lifestyle changes and dietary habits. The increasing prevalence of diabetes globally necessitates effective management strategies, as the condition can lead to severe health complications if not controlled. While allopathic medications are available, their cost may be prohibitive for many, particularly in developing countries. Consequently, there is a growing interest in traditional medications that can potentially lower blood glucose levels, including those derived from plants.
Antihyperglycemic Effects of Flacourtia jangomas
Flacourtia jangomas, commonly known as the Indian plum tree, belongs to the Salicaceae family and produces fruits that have recently garnered attention for their potential blood glucose-lowering properties. In a study evaluating the oral glucose tolerance effects of methanol extracts of these fruits, significant reductions in blood glucose levels were observed in glucose-loaded Swiss albino mice. The methanol extract of the fruits demonstrated a dose-dependent reduction, with decreases of 9.3%, 21.1%, and 32.5% in blood glucose levels at doses of 100, 200, and 400 mg per kg body weight, respectively. In comparison, the standard antihyperglycemic drug glibenclamide achieved a reduction of 41.9% at a dose of 10 mg per kg.
Methodology of the Study
To assess the efficacy of the methanol extract, the study employed an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT). This involved the preparation of the methanol extract from ripe Flacourtia jangomas fruits, which were first dried, powdered, and then extracted with methanol. Swiss albino mice, which were acclimatized and maintained under ethical standards, were divided into various treatment groups, including a control group and groups receiving either the standard drug or different doses of the methanol extract. Blood glucose levels were measured after glucose loading to evaluate the extract's antihyperglycemic activity.
Results and Comparison with Glibenclamide
The findings of the study indicate that the methanol extract of Flacourtia jangomas fruits has significant antihyperglycemic properties, though it was less effective than glibenclamide at the tested doses. Notably, the extract's effectiveness varied with dosage, suggesting a potential for even stronger effects at higher concentrations. The extract also holds promise for a natural alternative treatment for managing elevated blood glucose levels, especially given the increasing global burden of diabetes and the accessibility issues associated with conventional medications.
Conclusion
The research underscores the potential of Flacourtia jangomas as a natural source of antihyperglycemic agents. The significant blood glucose-lowering effects of methanol extracts from the fruit suggest its validity as a functional food or supplement in the management of diabetes. Further studies are warranted to explore the compound's mechanisms of action, efficacy at higher doses, and long-term effects. This could pave the way for developing accessible treatment options that integrate traditional knowledge with scientific validation.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is the medicinal property of Flacourtia jangomas fruits?
Flacourtia jangomas fruits have been found to significantly lower blood glucose levels in glucose-loaded mice, indicating potential antihyperglycemic effects.
How was the oral glucose tolerance test conducted?
Mice were divided into groups, receiving either the extract or glibenclamide. Blood glucose levels were measured after glucose loading to assess the glucose tolerance.
What are the main findings from the study on MEFJ?
The study demonstrated that methanol extracts of Flacourtia jangomas fruits significantly reduced blood glucose levels in a dose-dependent manner compared to control animals.
What benefits do traditional medicines offer for diabetes?
Traditional medicines, like those derived from plants, can provide cost-effective alternatives for managing elevated blood glucose levels, especially in under-developed countries.
What preparation method was used for the fruit extract?
The ripe fruits were sliced, dried, pulverized, and then extracted with methanol over 48 hours to prepare the methanol extract for testing.
What safety measures were taken during the study?
All animal experiments adhered to ethical standards, ensuring that mice experienced no unnecessary pain during the acclimatization and testing processes.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Glucose tolerance tests with Flacourtia jangomas fruits.”. 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) Blood:
Blood is a crucial bodily fluid that carries oxygen and nutrients to cells and removes waste products. In the context of this study, it is significant as blood glucose levels are being measured to evaluate the efficacy of Flacourtia jangomas fruit extracts on glucose metabolism, particularly in hyperglycemic conditions.
2) Animal:
Animals, specifically Swiss albino mice in this study, serve as the biological model to test the antihyperglycemic effects of the methanol extract from Flacourtia jangomas fruits. The use of animals is essential for understanding the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of potential treatments before they may be considered for human use.
3) Drug:
A drug is a chemical substance used for medical treatment. In this study, glibenclamide is used as a standard antihyperglycemic drug to compare the blood glucose lowering effects of the methanol extract of Flacourtia jangomas fruits, highlighting the importance of evaluating natural extracts against established pharmaceuticals.
4) Tree:
In the study, Flacourtia jangomas, referred to as an 'Indian plum tree,' is the focal plant species whose fruits are being tested for their health benefits. Its classification as a tree signifies the source of the edible fruits that may have therapeutic properties for managing blood glucose levels.
5) Study (Studying):
The study aims to scientifically evaluate the effect of Flacourtia jangomas fruit extracts on blood glucose control. This research is part of an effort to identify natural remedies that could aid in diabetes management, contributing to the broader understanding of traditional medicines and their scientific validation.
6) Activity:
Activity in this context refers to the biological actions of the methanol extract of Flacourtia jangomas fruits, specifically its ability to lower blood glucose levels. The observed antihyperglycemic activity suggests potential therapeutic benefits for diabetes management and highlights the need for further exploration of its active compounds.
7) Family:
Family refers to the taxonomic classification of organisms. Flacourtia jangomas belongs to the Salicaceae family. Understanding its botanical relationships can provide insights into its chemical properties and potential health benefits, as many plants in the same family share similar phytochemical profiles and medicinal uses.
8) Powder:
Powder in this study refers to the state of the Flacourtia jangomas fruits after they are dried and pulverized for extraction. The powdered form allows for effective solvent extraction of bioactive compounds, facilitating their subsequent analysis in the oral glucose tolerance tests conducted in the experiments.
9) Indian:
Indian in this context pertains to the common name associated with Flacourtia jangomas, known as the Indian plum tree. This designation reflects the geographic and cultural significance of the plant, indicating its traditional uses and potential relevance in local dietary practices, particularly in relation to diabetes management.
10) Water:
Water is the solvent used to prepare the methanol extract of Flacourtia jangomas fruits along with the surfactant Tween 20. It is crucial for conducting the oral glucose tolerance tests, as it facilitates the delivery of the extracts to the mice, ensuring effective absorption and subsequent measurement of blood glucose levels.
11) Ripe:
Ripe signifies the maturity of the Flacourtia jangomas fruits used in this study. The choice of ripe fruits is critical because they are likely to contain the highest concentrations of bioactive compounds that may exert antihyperglycemic effects, thereby influencing the study's outcomes concerning efficacy.
12) Pain:
Pain refers to the physical discomfort that could arise during the research process. The study emphasizes careful handling of the animals to minimize pain and distress, highlighting the ethical considerations involved in animal experimentation and the commitment to ensuring animal welfare throughout the testing procedures.
13) Discussion:
Discussion refers to the section of the research where the authors interpret and analyze the findings regarding the antihyperglycemic activity of Flacourtia jangomas fruit extracts. This part is crucial for contextualizing the results within existing literature, discussing implications for diabetes management, and suggesting future research directions.
14) Science (Scientific):
Scientific denotes the methodology grounded in rigorous experimentation and evidence-based practices. This study employs scientific approaches to validate the traditional claims associated with Flacourtia jangomas, ensuring that conclusions drawn are supported by observable data and statistical analysis, thus contributing to the field of ethnopharmacology.
15) Disease:
Disease in this context refers to diabetes, a chronic condition characterized by elevated blood glucose levels. This research aims to investigate natural solutions for managing this widespread issue, highlighting the importance of exploring plant-based therapies to alleviate the health impact of such metabolic disorders.
16) Paila:
Paila is the local vernacular name for Flacourtia jangomas in Bangladesh, highlighting cultural context and community knowledge. This name connects the plant to its traditional uses and local practices, underscoring the importance of incorporating indigenous knowledge into scientific research for diabetes treatment.
17) Sugar:
Sugar refers to refined sugars that contribute to elevated blood glucose levels as discussed in the background of the study. The research emphasizes the role of dietary habits, such as high sugar consumption, in the rising prevalence of diabetes, pointing towards the need for effective management strategies.
18) Table:
Table refers to the organized data presentation of experimental results within the study. Tables summarize vital findings, such as the effects of methanol extract on blood glucose levels, facilitating clearer understanding of outcomes at a glance and allowing for better comparison with standard treatments.
19) Food:
Food relates to the diet and nutritional aspects that can impact blood glucose levels. The study's exploration of Flacourtia jangomas fruits as an edible source suggests dietary interventions as a potential strategy in managing diabetes and emphasizes the importance of healthy eating habits.
20) Life:
Life in the context of this study denotes the broader implications of managing diseases like diabetes for improving quality of life. Effective treatment and control of blood glucose levels can lead to better health outcomes, reducing complications and enhancing overall well-being for affected individuals.