Evaluation of Antidiabetic and Antihyperlipidemic Effects of a Novel Polyherbal Formulation in Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Rats

Diabetes mellitus represents a significant global health challenge, with conventional treatments often associated with limitations and adverse effects. This study investigated the antidiabetic potential of a novel polyherbal formulation comprising Cinnamomum zeylanicum bark, Eugenia jambolana seeds, Vinca rosea whole plant, and Gymnema sylvestre leaves. The formulation was prepared using standardized ethanolic extracts in various ratios and evaluated in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. Acute toxicity studies demonstrated the safety of the formulation up to 2000 mg/kg body weight. The antidiabetic activity was assessed at doses of 200 mg/kg and 400 mg/kg body weight, with glibenclamide (5 mg/kg) as the standard drug. The polyherbal formulation exhibited significant glucose-lowering effects in both normal and diabetic rats, with the 400 mg/kg dose showing optimal results. After 28 days of treatment, the formulation significantly reduced blood glucose levels and improved lipid profiles, showing comparable efficacy to glibenclamide. The formulation also demonstrated remarkable antihyperlipidemic activity, effectively reducing triglycerides, total cholesterol, and LDL while increasing HDL levels. Biochemical parameters showed significant improvement, indicating enhanced metabolic regulation. This research work shows that this polyherbal formulation can serve as a viable therapeutic alternative for managing diabetes mellitus and associated complications.