The Effect of Aqueous Extract of Smilax Perfoliata on Blood Glucose, Lipids and Selected Hepatic Enzymes of Alloxan- Induced Diabetic Mice

The antidiabetic properties of aqueous extract of Smilax perfoliata (Smilacaceae) leaves on alloxan-induced diabetic mice is reported. The hypoglycemic activity, antihyperglycemic activity and Oral Glucose Tolerance Tests (OGTT) demonstrated that the extract possesses blood glucose lowering potential. Further, the extract treated diabetic mice displayed an overall improvement in the lipid profile and liver enzymes (AST and ALT) activity. Smilax perfoliata extract also exhibited DPPH radical scavenging activity in vitro. Total polyphenols, flavonoids, protein and carbohydrate content were assayed and found to be 63.45 mg GAE/g dry weight, 34.06 mg Rutin equivalents/g dry weight, 0.39 % and 40.68 %, respectively. The results from the experiments conducted show that aqueous extract of Smilax perfoliata displays potent antidiabetic and hypolipidemic activity and merit its inclusion as a natural product with therapeutic potential.