Hypoglycaemic and Antidiabetic Effect of Setaria megaphylla on Normal and Alloxan Induced Diabetic Rats

Objective: To investigate the hypoglycaemic and anti-diabetic activities of ethanolic extraxts of leaves of Setaria megaphylla. Materials and Methods: The hypoglycaemic activity of the ethanolic leaves extract was evaluated in normal as well in as alloxan (150mg/kg 1.p) induced hyperglycaemic rats. Preliminary phytochemical screening and acute toxicity studies of the leaves were carried out. The potency of the ethanolic extract (100, 200 and 300mg/kg b.w. p.o) was evaluated after a single dose (acute study) and after prolonged treatment (chronic study) in normal and alloxan induced diabetic albino rats. The activity of the extract was compared with that of reference drug, chlorpropamide (100mg/kg bw.p.o). The blood glucose level was measured by using a glucometer. Results and Discussion: The extract produced a significant (P < 0.01) reduction in Blood glucose level (BGL) of both normal and diabetic rats after a single dose of the extract and in prolong treatment (i.e. for a week). The hypoglycaemic activity was comparable to that of the reference drug, chlorpropamide. Conclusion: Ethanolic leaves extract of Setaria megaphylla exhibited a significant hypoglycaemic activity in rats and this confirms it's use in ethnomedical diabetic management.