Additive Effect of Aloe vera and Fenugreek Extracts on Alloxan-Induced Diabetes in Wistar Rats

Abstract

The present study was carried out to evaluate the synergistic effects of Aloe vera and fenugreek extracts on
alloxan-induced diabetic rats. Diabetes is induced by treating male Wistar rats with alloxan at a dose of 100
mg/kg, i.p.; after 72 hrs of induction of diabetes, the fasting blood glucose (FBG) levels were checked by Accu
check glucometer. Those animals with FBG higher than 200 mg/dL, were separated and grouped for further
study. Upon treatment with oral Aloe vera (300 mg/kg,p.o) and Fenugreek (800 mg/kg, p.o) extracts alone and
combinations (150 mg of aloe vera + 400 mg of fenugreek) for 14 days, there was a significant decrease in the
blood glucose level while the levels of plasma insulin increased. The extracts also significantly decreased the
total cholesterol, LDL, and triglycerides levels while increasing the levels of HDL. In extract-treated groups,
urinary pH and urinary output were restored to normal and creatinine levels were regulated. Histopathology
of the pancreas revealed that aloe vera and fenugreek alone and in combination have shown significantly good
results in restoring the pancreas damage and function. The combined formulation showed better efficacy than
individual extracts. Kidney histopathology revealed that a damaged kidney was seen in the diabetic group, but
the treatment with Aloe vera and Fenugreek extracts alone and combinations for 14 days rendered the damaged
kidney areas normal, compared to the standard group. With our study, it was concluded that diabetes can be
well-managed with aloe vera and fenugreek alone and in combination.