Gastrointestinal and Hepatobiliary Effects of Aqueous Extract of Costus afer Leaves in Diabetic Wistar Rats
Abstract
Aim: Diabetes mellitus (DM) remains a global health challenge, with escalating incidence and prevalence across developed and developing nations, infecting approximately 537 million in 2021 and is projected to increase to 783 million by 2045. Gastroparesis, dyspepsia, and peptic ulceration are common diabetes-associated complications within the gastrointestinal system. This study aimed to investigate the gastrointestinal and hepatobiliary effects of aqueous extract of C. afer leaves in diabetic Wistar rats.
Materials and Methods: The leaves of C. afer were collected, identified, dried, ground into powder, and extracted with distilled water. The aqueous extract was administered orally to Wistar rats at 800mg/kg body weight. Thirty female rats were randomized into five groups: one receiving only C. afer, one receiving metformin (200mg/kg), and others as controls. The study involved monitoring food and water intake, collecting biliary secretion, and measuring bile electrolytes, bilirubin, and cholesterol levels. Fecal lipids, glucose, and protein content were also analyzed. Statistical analysis was done using ANOVA, with p < 0.05 considered significant.
Results: The study revealed significant differences across treatment groups. Pepsin concentrations were reduced in C. afer (0.24±0.10), DM+MTF (0.29±0.02), and DM+C. afer (0.17±0.03) compared to control (0.42±0.02). Ulcer scores were higher in DM (11.1±0.7) and lower in DM+C. afer (4.4±0.3). Bicarbonate levels decreased in DM (19.8±0.66) and C. afer (18.2±0.80) compared to control (23.4±0.87). Chloride and sodium ions showed significant variations. Potassium increased in C. afer (3.38±0.11), DM+MTF (5.22±0.10), and DM+C. afer (3.92±0.09). Total bilirubin was higher in DM+MTF (2.48±0.13) and DM+C. afer (2.42±0.13).
Conclusion: C. afer demonstrated antidiabetic effects by reducing blood glucose, enhancing glucose absorption, modulating gut motility, and influencing biliary electrolyte balance, though it may pose a risk for electrolyte imbalances and cholelithiasis.
