Antidiabetic effects of the ethanolic extract of Allium saralicum R.M. Fritsch on streptozotocin-induced diabetes in a mice model

Medicinal plants can protect different organs against diabetes-induced oxidative stress due to their antioxidant compounds. The present study was designed to investigate the potential of Allium saralicum R.M. Fritsch (A. saralicum) ethanolic extract to alleviate the adverse effects of streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetes in male BALB/c mice. Seventy male mice were randomly divided into seven groups (n = 10). Diabetes was experimentally induced by STZ (60 mg/kg bw). A. saralicum ethanolic extract with doses 5, 20, 80, and 320 mg/kg was administrated for 20 consecutive days in diabetic animals. Based on the obtained results, the untreated diabetic mice showed high blood glucose level, cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein (LDL), white blood cells count (WBC), and platelets, as well as liver enzymes, urea, and creatinine. Administration of different doses of A. saralicum extract significantly reduced blood glucose level similar to glibenclamide. Also, the levels of catalase and superoxide dismutase enzymes restored toward normal level. All hepatic and renal function parameters as well as hematological parameters were improved following treatment with A. saralicum extract particularly at high doses. Histopathological studies showed a decrease in hepatic, renal, and pancreatic damage after treatment with A. saralicum extract. The results of the present work indicate that A. saralicum ethanolic extract can attenuate diabetic hepato-renal, pancreatic, and hematological damages.

Automated summary

The study found that Allium saralicum ethanolic extract significantly reduced blood glucose levels in diabetic mice and restored antioxidant enzyme levels. It also improved hepatic and renal function as well as hematological parameters, alleviating organ damage.