Aqueous Asteriscus graveolens Extract Exhibits Antidiabetic and Hepatoprotective Effects in Diabetic Rats

Background: Asteriscus graveolens (A. graveolens) is a medicinal plant with numerous applications in phytotherapy including diabetes management. However, the antidiabetic effect of this plant has never been investigated experimentally. Objective: The objective of this study was to evaluate the antidiabetic effect of aqueous extract prepared from the aerial part of Asteriscus graveolens (A. graveolens) in normal and STZ-induced diabetic rats. Method: The effect of a single dose and daily oral administration for 15 days of the aerial part aqueous extract of A. graveolens (AGAPE) (10 mg/kg) on blood glucose levels was evaluated. In addition, histopathological examination of the liver as well as the in vitro antioxidant activity AGAPE were performed. Results: The data illustrate that both single and repeated oral administration of AGAPE were able to reduce blood glucose levels in normal and diabetic rats. The extract ameliorated histopathological properties of liver in diabetic rats and it exhibited in vitro antioxidant activity. Conclusion: In conclusion, the present investigation revealed for the first time that A. graveolens possesses potent antidiabetic and hepatoprotective activities which support the traditional claim of the plant.