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Oral hypoglycaemic activity of Ipomoea aquatica
T S Malalavidhane1, S M Wickramasinghe, E R Jansz
1Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Gangodawila, Nugegoda, Sri Lanka.
Journal of Ethnopharmacology
|September 1, 2000
Summary
Ipomoea aquatica, a green leafy vegetable, shows significant oral hypoglycemic activity. This study confirms its potential to lower blood glucose levels in rats, suggesting therapeutic benefits.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Ethnobotany
- Nutritional Science
Background:
- Ipomoea aquatica is a widely consumed green leafy vegetable in Sri Lanka.
- Traditional knowledge suggests Ipomoea aquatica possesses insulin-like activity.
- Limited scientific research exists on the therapeutic applications of Ipomoea aquatica.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the oral hypoglycemic activity of Ipomoea aquatica.
- To evaluate the effects of single and multiple doses of Ipomoea aquatica extract on glucose levels.
- To determine the optimal dosage and timing for the hypoglycemic effect.
Main Methods:
- The study utilized healthy, male Wistar rats.
- Rats were administered single and multiple doses of a boiled, whole Ipomoea aquatica extract.
- Oral glucose challenge was administered to assess hypoglycemic effects.
- Serum glucose concentrations were measured at specific time points.
Main Results:
- Both single and multiple doses of Ipomoea aquatica extract significantly reduced serum glucose concentrations.
- A single dose resulted in a 33% reduction in glucose levels (P<0.0027).
- Multiple doses led to a 25% reduction in glucose levels (P<0.02), with optimal activity observed 2 hours post-administration at a dose of 3.4 g/kg.
Conclusions:
- Ipomoea aquatica extract demonstrates significant oral hypoglycemic effects in healthy rats.
- The findings support the traditional use of Ipomoea aquatica for managing blood glucose.
- Further research is warranted to explore its therapeutic potential in humans.