Gut Microbial Modulation as Precursor for Blood Glucose Regulation Through Moringa Oleifera Leaves Aqueous Extract-An...

Area of Science:

• Pharmacology and Traditional Medicine
• Microbiology and Gut Health
• Biochemistry and Metabolic Disorders

Background:

• Moringa oleifera (MO), known as drumstick, is recognized for its medicinal properties.
• The plant's potential as a prebiotic and its effects on glucose metabolism require scientific investigation.
• Diabetes mellitus is a growing global health concern necessitating novel therapeutic strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the prebiotic activity of Moringa oleifera leaves extract.
• To evaluate the glucose-balancing potential of Moringa oleifera in a diabetic rat model.
• To determine the optimal dosage for observed effects.

Main Methods:

• Experimental study involving 24 male albino rats, induced with streptozotocin-diabetes.
• Rats were divided into four groups: control (Metformin) and three treatment groups receiving MO leaves extract at 100, 200, and 300 mg/kg/day.
• Stool analysis for Lactobacillus count and blood glucose level monitoring over 21 days.

Main Results:

• Stool analysis revealed increased Lactobacillus counts (10^4-10^5 CFU) in MO-treated groups compared to the control (10^3 CFU).
• The anti-hyperglycemic effect was most pronounced at the 100 mg/kg/day dose, significantly reducing blood glucose from 152.50 ± 7.7 to 119 ± 7.07 (p=0.010).
• Higher doses of MO extract showed less significant anti-hyperglycemic effects (p>0.05).

Conclusions:

• Moringa oleifera exhibits promising prebiotic properties, evidenced by enhanced Lactobacillus proliferation.
• The plant demonstrates significant anti-hyperglycemic potential, particularly at a dose of 100 mg/kg/day.
• Further long-term studies are recommended to establish the definitive effective dose and mechanism of action for Moringa oleifera.