Evaluating the Therapeutic Potential of Vernonia amygdalina: A Promising Antidiabetic Agent in STZ and Nicotinamide-Induced Rat Model

Background: Vernonia amygdalina, commonly known as bitter leaf, has been traditionally used for its potential antidiabetic properties. This study aimed to evaluate the therapeutic potential of Vernonia amygdalina extract (VAE) in ameliorating hyperglycemia using a streptozotocin (STZ) and high-fat diet (HFD)-induced rat model of diabetes. Methods: Sixty male Wistar rats were divided into six groups: normal control, diabetic control, and four treatment groups receiving different doses of VAE (100, 300, and 500 mg/kg body weight) orally for eight weeks. Diabetes was induced in rats by a single intraperitoneal injection of STZ (55 mg/kg) after four weeks of Nicotinamid feeding. Body weight, fasting blood glucose levels, HbA1c, serum insulin levels, superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity, and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels were measured. Results: Treatment with VAE significantly reduced fasting blood glucose levels in a dose-dependent manner compared to the diabetic control group (p < 0.05). VAE administration also led to a significant decrease in HbA1c levels and an increase in serum insulin levels in a dosedependent manner (p < 0.05). Furthermore, VAE supplementation restored SOD activity and reduced MDA levels, indicating improved antioxidant status in the treated groups (p < 0.05). Conclusion: This study demonstrates the therapeutic potential of Vernonia amygdalina as an antidiabetic agent in the STZ and HFD-induced rat model of diabetes. VAE supplementation effectively reduced fasting blood glucose levels, improved glycemic control as indicated by reduced HbA1c levels, and enhanced insulin secretion. Moreover, VAE exhibited antioxidant activity by restoring SOD activity and reducing MDA levels. These findings suggest that Vernonia amygdalina could be a promising natural remedy for the management of diabetes. Further investigations are warranted to elucidate the underlying mechanisms and evaluate its long-term safety and efficacy in humans.