Effect of Herbal Hypoglycemics on Oxidative Stress and Antioxidant Status in Diabetic Rats

摘要

Antioxidative potential of four commonly used Indian medicinal plants Gymnema sylvestre, Salacia reticulata, Cassia auriculata and Eugenia jambolanum was screened for its antidiabetic activity by streptozotocin induced diabetic rats. Lipid peroxide levels were also measured in normal, diabetic and treated animals. Malondialdehyde (MDA) levels were significantly higher and antioxidant activity was found low in diabetic groups as compared to the control groups, and significant alteration in both the MDA levels and antioxidant activity was also observed when the above herbal hypoglycemic agents were given to diabetic rats. The results confirm that the herbs were not only useful in controlling the lipid peroxide levels but are also helpful in further strengthening the antioxidant potential.