Shatavarin IV from Asparagus curillus roots exhibits antidiabetic activity in STZ-induced rats

The present study aimed to isolate and evaluate the antidiabetic potential of shatavarin IV, a major steroidal saponin from the ethanolic root extract of Asparagus curillus Buch.-Ham. ex Roxb. Shatavarin IV was isolated and characterised using chromatographic and spectroscopic techniques. Its antidiabetic activity was assessed in STZ-induced diabetic rats by monitoring blood glucose, insulin, glycated haemoglobin, and lipid profile parameters. Treatment with shatavarin IV, particularly at 400 μg/kg (p.o., b.w.), significantly reduced fasting blood glucose from 265.80 to 119.58 mg/dL, improved insulin levels from 13.99 to 21.69 mIU/mL, and decreased HbA1c from 11.52 to 5.91%. Additionally, it ameliorated diabetes-induced dyslipidemia by lowering total cholesterol, triglycerides, LDL, VLDL, and atherogenic index while increasing HDL. These effects are likely mediated by the steroidal saponin nature of shatavarin IV, which modulates glucose and lipid metabolism. These findings identify shatavarin IV as a key bioactive constituent of A. curillus with antidiabetic and hypolipidemic potential.