Effects of Aqueous Extract of Ipomoea batatas (Sweet Potato) Leaves on the Frontal Cortex of Diabetic Wistar Rats

Background: Diabetes mellitus represents a significant public health concern worldwide, with Sub-Saharan Africa—including Zambia—facing a growing burden. The condition has been associated with cognitive impairments and alterations in brain structure. Sweet potato leaves, known for their antioxidant properties, have been traditionally used in the management of various ailments, including diabetes. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of aqueous sweet potato leaf extract on the frontal cortex of diabetic Wistar rats.Materials and Methods: A total of thirty-six adult male Wistar rats were allocated into six experimental groups: normal control, sweet potato leaf extract only, diabetic + sweet potato leaf extract, diabetic + insulin, diabetic + metformin, and diabetic only. Diabetes was induced using streptozotocin at a dose of 70 mg/kg body weight. Treatments commenced 72 hours after induction and continued for four weeks. The administered doses were: sweet potato leaf extract (700 mg/kg), metformin (100 mg/kg), and insulin (4 IU/kg).Results: Compared to the untreated diabetic group, animals in the diabetic + sweet potato leaf extract, diabetic + insulin, and diabetic + metformin groups showed statistically significant improvements in body weight and relative brain weight (p < 0.05). Normoglycemia was achieved by the third week in the group receiving sweet potato leaf extract, while insulin and metformin groups reached similar levels by week four. Glucose metabolism enzymes and oxidative stress biomarkers exhibited differential activity, with more favorable outcomes in the treatment groups. Histological evaluation revealed evidence of neuroprotection among treated animals. Conclusion: The results suggest that sweet potato leaf extract possesses neuroprotective effects and may serve as a potential intervention to mitigate diabetes-induced cognitive dysfunction.