Trapa natans L. root extract suppresses hyperglycemic and hepatotoxic effects in STZ-induced diabetic rat model

Ethnopharmacological relevance: Trapa natans L has a folkloric reputation as nutrient, appetizer and astringent. Its utility as antidiabetic, anticancer, diuretic, aphrodisiac, antidiarrhoeal and in many other maladies is well reported in the literature. Therefore, the present study has been carried out to study the antihyperglycemic effect of root extract of Trapa natans L. and its various fractions. Furthermore, hepatotoxic effects and lipid peroxidation risks have also been evaluated. Methods: The ethanol extract and its successive fractions obtained from roots of Trapa natans have been administered in sucrose loaded and STZ- induced diabetic Wistar rats at doses of 50, 100 and 200 mg/kg b.w. Glibenclamide was used as positive control. The evaluation of protective effects of extract as well as fractions against hepatotoxicity and lipid peroxidation at 600 mg/kg b.w. has also been carried out. Results: The methanol fraction emerged as the most potent antihyperglycemic fraction. It has also been found that the ethanolic extract as well as its fractions did not cause any lipid peroxidation and hepatotoxicity risks. Conclusion: It can be concluded that the intense investigations of the methanol fraction obtained from Trapa natans root extract can be done to provide an alternative natural therapy for hyperglycemia. (C) 2013 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.