Antidiabetic and Protective Effects of Aqueous Seed Extract of Persea americana in the Pancreas of Alloxan-Induced Diabetic Wistar Rats

Abstract

The global rise in diabetes mellitus poses a significant challenge to primary healthcare, especially in developing countries. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of aqueous seed extract and pericarp oil of Persea americana on the pancreas of alloxan-induced diabetic male Wistar rats. Fifty-six adult male Wistar rats were divided into eight groups of seven rats each. Group A served as the control, receiving only food and water. Groups B to H were made diabetic by intraperitoneal injection of alloxan at 200 mg/kg body weight. Group B received no further treatment. Group C was treated with pericarp oil at 100 mg/kg body weight. Groups D and E received pericarp oil and seed extract respectively, at 200 mg/kg body weight. Group F received both pericarp oil and seed extract, each at 200 mg/kg body weight. Group G received a combination of pericarp oil, seed extract, and the standard drug metformin. Group H received only metformin. Blood glucose levels and body weight were recorded at two and four weeks. Significant decreases in blood glucose levels (P<0.05) were observed in all treatment groups compared to Group B. Significant body weight increases were noted in Groups C, D, and E compared to Group B (P<0.05). These findings suggest that Persea americana extracts possess antidiabetic properties, possibly due to their phytochemical contents, and may improve nutrient utilization, as evidenced by weight gain. The seed extract of Persea americana may offer therapeutic benefits in managing diabetes mellitus.