Anti-diabetic Potential of Aqueous Leaf Extract of Anacardium occidentale in Alloxan-induced Diabetic Albino Rats

Abstract

As the global incidence of diabetes continues to rise, and with the limitations of existing therapeutic options, exploring alternative plant-based treatments becomes imperative. This study investigates the antidiabetic potential of the aqueous leaf extract of Anacardium occidentale in alloxan-induced diabetic male albino rats. Diabetes mellitus, characterized by chronic hyperglycemia due to insulin deficiency or resistance, poses significant health challenges, necessitating the exploration of alternative therapeutic agents. To induce diabetes, male albino rats received an intraperitoneal injection of alloxan at 120 mg/kg body weight. Following confirmation of hyperglycemia, the diabetic rats were treated with aqueous leaf extract of A. occidentale at a dosage of 100 mg/kg for 28 days. The results demonstrated a statistically significant reduction in fasting blood glucose levels (p < 0.05) in the treated groups compared to the diabetic control group. Additionally, there were notable improvements in liver function markers, indicating the extract’s potential hepatoprotective effects. The treatment also positively influenced lipid profiles, with reductions in total cholesterol, triglycerides, and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) levels, while high-density lipoprotein (HDL) levels increased significantly. Furthermore, the extract enhanced antioxidant levels, as evidenced by increased concentrations of reduced glutathione and superoxide dismutase, suggesting a protective role against oxidative stress associated with diabetes. The GC-MS analysis of aqueous leaf extract of anacardium occidentale confirmed the presence of lots of phytochemically active biocompounds whose strength contribute to the medicinal bioactivity of the plant. These findings support the hypothesis that Anacardium occidentale leaf extract possesses significant antidiabetic properties, with potential mechanisms involving the modulation of glucose metabolism, improvement of lipid profiles, and reduction of oxidative stress. Future studies should aim to elucidate the underlying biochemical mechanisms and active compounds responsible for the observed effects, paving the way for the development of effective plant-based treatments for diabetes management.