Impact of Ficus vallis-choudae Leaves on Digestive Enzyme Activity and Cardiovascular Markers in Insulin-Resistance Rats

Introduction: Ficus vallis-choudae has been traditionally used in Cameroon to manage disorders related to carbohydrate metabolism. This study aimed to evaluate the insulin-sensitizing effects of its aqueous extract of (AEFVC) in vivo and its inhibitory effects on alpha-amylase and alpha-glucosidase in vitro. Methods: Phytochemical profiling of AEFVC was performed to identify its constituent compounds. Enzymatic assays were conducted to assess alpha-amylase and alpha-glucosidase inhibition. Antioxidant activities, including DPPH radical scavenging and iron-reducing capacities, were also evaluated. Male Wistar rats with type 2 diabetes, induced by a high-fat diet and streptozotocin (35 mg/kg), were treated with AEFVC at doses of 110, 220, or 440 mg/kg for 28 days. Parameters such as body weight, blood glucose, lipid profile, and oxidative stress markers were analyzed. Results: Phytochemical analysis revealed that AEFVC contains diverse compounds, including total phenolics, tannins, saponins, and flavonoids in varying concentrations. The extract showed dose-dependent inhibition of alpha-amylase and alpha-glucosidase, with significant reduction in postprandial glucose levels in sucrose and starch tolerance tests at 440 mg/kg. AEFVC exhibited potent antioxidant activity, evidenced by its DPPH radical scavenging and iron-reducing properties (p < 0.05). Additionally, the extract significantly improved serum lipid profiles, reducing total cholesterol, triglycerides, LDL cholesterol, and malondialdehyde while increasing HDL cholesterol, glutathione, and catalase levels (p < 0.05). Conclusion: AEFVC demonstrated hypoglycemic, antioxidant, and insulin-sensitizing effects, likely mediated through the inhibition of alpha-glucosidase and alpha-amylase. These findings suggest that AEFVC may have therapeutic potential in managing type 2 diabetes and associated metabolic disorders.