Comprehensive Evaluation of the Anti-hyperglycemic Efficacy of Tinospora cordifolia in Rodent Models Coupled with a Detailed Assessment of its Adverse Effect Profile

Abstract

A prevalent endocrine condition, diabetes mellitus (DM) is generally characterized by diminished insulin function, which results in hyperglycemia and complications such as neuropathy and retinopathy. Bigunaides, sulfonylureas, thiazolidinediones (TZDs) and SGLT2 inhibitors are common oral antidiabetic drugs while each has unique adverse effects.  A medicinal herb called Tinospora cordifolia has the potential to control blood sugar levels by lowering oxidative stress and increasing insulin secretion. In the experimental rat model, diabetes was induced using alloxan. 50 rats were split up into ten groups for the study in order to examine how T. cardifolia extract affected blood glucose levels. Following alloxan-induced diabetes, the rats were given metformin, different dosages (such as 300mg, 600 mg and 900 mg) of T.cardifolia extract or plain water and food from day 7 to day 42. Elevated blood glucose, liver damage (increased SGPT/SGOT), kidney dysfunction (high creatinine/urea), and changed lipid profiles were all consequences of alloxan-induced diabetes. The therapeutic potential of the plant extract in managing diabetes and its complications is suggested by the significant reduction in blood glucose, improvement in liver and kidney markers, and correction of lipid imbalances, especially at medium (600mg) and high doses (900 mg).