Antihyperglycemic Effect of Balanite aegyptiaca Aqueous Fruit Pulp Extract on Streptozotosin Induced Diabetic Rats

Abstract

Diabetes mellitus is a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by persistent hyperglycemia resulting from impaired insulin secretion, insulin resistance, or both. Despite the availability of synthetic antidiabetic drugs, their high cost and adverse effects have encouraged the exploration of safer, plant-based alternatives. Balanites aegyptiaca (desert date) is traditionally used to treat diabetes, but its scientific validation remains limited. This study evaluated the antihyperglycemic effect of the aqueous fruit pulp extract of Balanites aegyptiaca in streptozotsin (STZ) induced diabetic rats. Diabetes was induced by intraperitoneal injection of nicotinamide (60 mg/kg) followed by STZ (60 mg/kg). Diabetic rats were treated orally for two weeks with B. aegyptiaca extract (100, 200, and 400 mg/kg) and glibenclamide (20 mg/kg). Fasting blood glucose, lipid profile, liver function, haematological parameters, and pancreatic histology were analysed using standard procedures. The extract significantly reduced fasting blood glucose and improved lipid profile by lowering total cholesterol, triglycerides, and LDL while increasing HDL. Liver enzyme activities (AST, ALT, and bilirubin) were normalised, haematological indices improved, and histopathological examination showed partial regeneration of pancreatic β-cells. B. aegyptiaca aqueous fruit pulp extract exhibits antihyperglycemic, hypolipidemic, hepatoprotective, and haematoprotective effects in diabetic rats, supporting its traditional use and highlighting its potential as a safe, affordable phytomedicine for diabetes management.