Abstract

Victoria N. Umeh, Ubachukwu I. Olli, Udochukwu K. Olli, Omoirri Moses Aziakpono and Jude Nnaemeka Okoyeh*

ABSTRACT

Introduction: Diabetes mellitus is a major health burden in developing countries. Formations of free radicals due to oxidative stress can cause beta-cell death, tissue insulin resistance with increased diabetic complications. Extracts from Melia azedarach is used in traditional medicine to treat various diseases which includes diabetes, but this claimed activity has not been evaluated. This study was therefore designed to evaluate the antioxidant and anti-diabetic activities of M. azedarach extracts. Materials and methods: The dried powdered leaves, stem-bark and root of M. azedarach were studied for phytochemical analysis. The antioxidant activity of the extracts and standards (ascorbic acid and gallic) were determined at 517nm with spectrophotometer using 2,2-Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) model. Anti-diabetic activity was assessed using in-vitro alpha-amylase inhibitory assay with Metformin tablet 500mg as the positive control. The absorbance was measured at 540nm. Graph-pad prism was used for statistical analysis. Results: Phytochemical investigation revealed presence of secondary metabolites like tannins and alkaloids. The root extract exhibited the highest radical-scavenging activity as well as the highest inhibitory effect on alpha-amylase enzymes. Conclusion: All the extracts of M. azedarach, possess anti-diabetic activities which seems to be more in the root extract. The anti-diabetic effect of the extract could be linked to their antioxidant and alpha-amylase enzymes inhibitory effects. Therefore, the folkloric use of this plant extracts in the management of diabetes is justified. Recommendation: In vivo anti-diabetic study of these extracts using animal model is recommended.