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Effects of Opuntia megacantha on blood glucose and kidney function in streptozotocin diabetic rats

P Bwititi1, C T Musabayane, C F Nhachi

  • 1Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Zimbabwe, Harare.

Journal of Ethnopharmacology
|March 18, 2000
PubMed

Insights

Opuntia megacantha leaf extracts lowered blood glucose in rats but may harm kidneys. The extracts increased urinary sodium and elevated plasma urea and creatinine, indicating potential kidney toxicity.

Area of Science:

  • Pharmacology
  • Nephrology
  • Diabetology

Background:

  • Diabetes mellitus is a metabolic disorder characterized by hyperglycemia.
  • Kidney dysfunction is a common complication of diabetes.
  • Herbal remedies are explored for managing diabetes and its complications.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the effects of Opuntia megacantha leaf extracts on blood glucose and kidney function.
  • To assess the impact of O. megacantha on normal and streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rats.

Main Methods:

  • Rats (normal and STZ-diabetic) were orally administered O. megacantha leaf extracts (20 mg/100 g body weight) or saline daily for 5 weeks.
  • Urine volume, urinary Na+, K+, and creatinine output were monitored.
  • Plasma Na+, K+, urea, creatinine, and glomerular filtration rate (GFR) were determined.

Main Results:

  • O. megacantha leaf extracts reduced plasma glucose concentrations in both normal and STZ-diabetic rats.
  • Extracts increased urinary Na+ output and decreased plasma Na+ concentration.
  • Significant elevations in plasma creatinine and urea were observed, suggesting kidney impairment.
  • GFR increased in STZ-diabetic rats but remained unchanged in normal rats.

Conclusions:

  • Opuntia megacantha leaf extracts demonstrate hypoglycemic effects.
  • The extracts may possess nephrotoxic properties, evidenced by increased plasma urea and creatinine and decreased plasma sodium.
  • Further research is warranted to elucidate the mechanisms and safety profile of O. megacantha for kidney function.

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