Hypoglycaemic effect of Phaseolus vulgaris L. extract in streptozotocin-diabetic rats

In traditional practice medicinal plants are used in many countries to control diabetes mellitus. Plant drugs are frequently considered to be less toxic and more free from side effects than synthetic ones. Phaseolus vulgaris L. is a common vegetable used since ancient times. It has been shown to posses many medicinal properties. In the present study, intraperitoneal administration of alcoholic extract of sheath on level of blood glucose in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats was evaluated. The results showed that the extract decreased blood glucose in diabetic animals significantly. These results confirmed the use of Phaseolus vulgaris in folklore practice as an anti-diabetic plant.