Publication:

Effect of turmeric on alloxan induced diabetes mellitus in albino rats

Background Diabetes mellitus is a chronic metabolic disorder of glucose metabolism characterised by hyperglycaemia. Long standing diabetes mellitus leads to various complications affecting multiple organ systems. Management of diabetes mellitus includes lifestyle modification and pharmacotherapy. Pharmacotherapy of diabetes mellitus includes a wide variety of drugs that help in achieving adequate glycaemic control. Anti-diabetic medications are however associated with several adverse effects. Phytochemicals are being used extensively for the treatment of various diseases. Use of phytochemicals would minimize adverse effects due to various anti-diabetic drugs and improve patient compliance. In the present study, authors studied the effect of turmeric on alloxan induced diabetes mellitus in albino rats.

Methods Albino Wistar rats of either sex weighing 180 - 250grams were utilized for the present study. Diabetes mellitus was induced by intraperitoneal administration of alloxan. Ethanolic extract of turmeric was administered to diabetic rats daily orally for duration of 28 days. Blood glucose levels were monitored using glucometer before and after intervention with turmeric.

Results Statistically significant reduction in mean blood glucose levels (p value <0.05) was seen after intervention with turmeric in diabetic rats. There was a significant reduction in mean blood glucose levels.

Conclusions Ethanolic extract of turmeric showed antihyperglycemic effect in diabetic rats.