Alimuddin Saifi

ABSTRACT

Background: Trigonella foenum graecum Linn. (Commonly known as Methi or Fenugreek) seed extract belonging to family Leguminosae have been documented to elicit hypoglycemic activity. Herbal preparations of T. foenum graecum have been considered as safe, effective and economical for various ailments in Indian traditional system of medicine. Its seed extract is used for the treatment of diabetes. The present study was undertaken to evaluate the hypoglycemic potential and effect on various biochemical parameters of hydro-alcoholic extract (70% v/v) of seeds of T. foenum graecum (TGE) in alloxan induced diabetic rats. Materials and method: Albino Wister male rats of weighing between 150 to 200 gms of were used for the study. Diabetes was induced by injecting alloxan (120 mg/kg, i.p.). Rats were divided in different groups for the study. Group I served as normal control, Group II served as diabetic control, Group III served as standard control and treated by Tolbutamide 100 mg/kg p.o. Group IV served as diabetic rats treated with hydro-alcoholic extract of T. foenum graecum seeds at a dosage of 1000 mg/kg body weight. All the treatments were given for 21 days. At the end of study, overnight fasted rats were sacrificed and blood was collected to determine fasting blood glucose and biochemical findings.