Phytochemical screening and efficacy of ethanolic fruit and seed extract of <i>Gmelina arborea</i> in the treatment of diabetes in albino rat (<i>Ratus norvegicus</i>)

The present study investigated the potential antidiabetic effects of Gmelina arborea fruit, a traditional medicinal remedy utilized for managing diabetes mellitus. Phytochemical screening and assessment of antidiabetic properties were conducted between October 2020 and May 2021. Fruit extraction employed 50% C2H5OH, with subsequent vacuum concentration at 40°C. Diabetes induction in overnight-fasted albino rats utilized alloxan (60 mg/kg I.P.). Dose-dependent investigations (100, 200, 400, 600 mg/kg) were performed using fruit and seed extracts to evaluate their impact on alloxan-induced diabetic rats. Blood glucose levels were monitored throughout the study. Phytochemical screening revealed the presence of saponins, terpenes, flavonoids, Salkwosku, Keller-Killian, Cuberman, and glycosides. Conversely, alkaloids, tannins, combined anthraquinone, cyanogenetic glycosides, and free anthraquinone were absent. No significant disparities in phytochemical profiles were observed between Gmelina arborea fruit and seed extracts. Oral administration of the extract led to a notable reduction in blood glucose levels at doses of 200, 400, and 600 mg/kg within 24 hours. Notably, treatment with 100 mg/kg of both fruit and seed extracts exhibited a significant difference compared to untreated diabetic rats. Furthermore, doses of 200 mg/kg, 400 mg/kg, and 600 mg/kg of both extracts normalized elevated glucose levels in induced diabetic rats within 14 days. These findings suggest the potential utility of Gmelina arborea fruit and seed extracts in the management of heart and diabetes-related ailments