Effect of Pelargonium graveolens on Glucose Metabolism in Streptozotocin- Induced Diabetic Rats

Aims:The study aimed to assess the antihyperglycemic activity of Pelargonium graveolens.Background:Pelargonium graveolens (P. graveolens) (Geraniaceae) is a medicinal plant frequently used in traditional medicine in Morocco and Algeria as a remedy against a multitude of illnesses. Interestingly, it is also used in the Moroccan pharmacopeia for managing diabetes.Objective:The current study was carried out in order to assess the antihyperglycemic activity of P. graveolens in normal and streptozotocin(STZ)-induced diabetic rats, as well as to evaluate the acute toxicity of the aqueous extract of leaves of Pelargonium graveolens (PGLAE).Methods:The therapeutic effect of PGLAE at a dose of 40 mg/kg on blood glucose levels was investigated in normal and STZ-induced diabetic rats after a single oral (6h) and a repeated (15 days) oral administration. The acute toxicity of the PGLAE was examined in accordance with the OECD test guideline. Post-treatment, body weight, signs of toxicity, and/or mortality were observed for 14 days. Further assays, such as the oral glucose tolerance test, histopathological examination, and antioxidant activity, were also performed according to standard protocols.Results:Findings exhibited that both single and repeated oral doses of PGLAE (40 mg/kg) caused a significant reduction in blood glucose levels of normal and diabetic rats. All treated animals survived and no apparent adverse effects were observed during the duration of the acute toxicity study. Importantly, oral LD50 of PGLAE was greater than 2000 mg/kg BW. Furthermore, a remarkable influence on glucose tolerance was also noticed after PGLAE treatment. Moreover, PGLAE was able to improve the histopathological structure of the liver and possesses a potential antioxidant effect in vitro.Conclusion:In conclusion, this study reported the antidiabetic effects of PGLAE in rats, supporting its traditional use for the management of diabetes.