Phytochemical Characterization and Investigation of Anthelminthic, Antidiabetic, and Toxicological Effects of Polyscias scutellaria

Abstract

Aim: Research findings indicate that MEPSL exhibits Very significant anthelmintic, antidiabetic, and moderate toxicological properties. They may endorse the plant's utilization in mainstream medicine for reducing drug intoxication, and managing diabetes and parasitic disorders. Place and Duration of Study: The research was undertaken at Stamford University Bangladesh during the period from September 6th, 2023 to April 28th, 2024. Methodology: The current study examined the properties of Polyscias scutellaria leaf, including its In vitro anthelminthic, In vivo antidiabetic, and toxicological effects, using a crude methanol extract. The leaf powder of the dried plant was extracted using methanol. After phytochemical screening, the methanolic extract (MEPSL) underwent additional testing to evaluate its anthelminthic, antidiabetic, and toxicological activities. The earthworm assay was utilized to conduct anthelminthic testing with various concentrations. A study was conducted on Swiss albino mice to evaluate the antidiabetic effects. The Blood Glucose Determination test was performed using doses of 150 mg/kg and 300 mg/kg.  The toxicological tests for acute toxicity were conducted using cinnamon oil at doses of 3000, 5000, and 7000 mg/kg.  During the phytochemical screening process, compounds such as carbohydrates, alkaloids, glycosides, saponins, flavonoids, and reducing sugars were found in MEPSL.  Results: According to the MEPSL findings, the earthworm met its demise after 30 minutes and 24 seconds during the 100 mg/mL anthelminthic test. In contrast, Albendazole took a significantly longer time of 38 minutes and 18 seconds to achieve the same result.  MEPSL showed a remarkable reduction in blood glucose levels compared to the standard Glibenclamide. In toxicological testing, a dosage of 5000 mg/kg resulted in the mortality of 3 out of 5 mice, while the application of cinnamon oil led to the death of all 5 mice within 24 hours. Conclusion: Research findings suggest that MEPSL possesses highly significant anthelmintic and antidiabetic properties, along with moderate toxicological effects. These findings may support the integration of the plant into conventional medicine for mitigating drug toxicity and treating diabetes and parasitic infections.