BOTANICAL RESTORATION OF ENDOCRINE BALANCE IN DIABETES: A STUDY OF TWO AFRICAN MEDICINAL PLANTS

This study evaluated the therapeutic potential of combined extracts of Vernonia amygdalina (VA) and Gongronema latifolium (GL) on pancreatic function, insulin secretion, and reproductive hormones in streptozotocin-induced diabetic Wistar rats. Thirty-six rats were randomly divided into six groups. While Groups A (normal control) and B (diabetic control) received placebo, Groups C to F received metformin, combined VA+GL extract, VA alone, and GL alone, respectively, for 28 days. Post-treatment assessments included blood glucose analysis, hormonal assays, and pancreatic histology. Results showed significant glucose reduction and weight gain in the combined extract and metformin groups. Histological findings revealed severe β-cell degeneration in diabetic controls, whereas extract-treated groups showed notable regeneration of islet cells. Feulgen staining confirmed DNA repair in these groups. Additionally, serum reproductive hormone levels—suppressed in diabetic rats—were markedly improved following treatment, with the combined extract outperforming metformin in restoring pancreatic architecture. The findings suggest that V. amygdalina and G. latifolium extracts possess synergistic antidiabetic and endocrine-restorative properties, supporting their use in managing diabetes-related complications.