Effects of methanol leaf extracts of Loranthus micranthus Linn from three host plants on some biochemical indices of diabetic rats

Purpose: To evaluate the effects of Loranthus micranthus leaf extracts from three host plants on the blood glucose, lipid profile and other biochemical indices of diabetic rats. Methods: The extracts of L. micranthus from Persea americana, Irvingia gabonensis and Cola acuminata were administered (orally at 200 mg/kg for 14 days) to alloxan-induced diabetic rats with glibenclamide serving as the standard drug. The fasting blood glucose (FBG), lipid profile, hematological indices and liver enzyme functions of the rats were determined. Phytochemical analysis of the extracts was carried out by standard methods. Results: The extracts reduced (p < 0.05) the FBG, low density lipoprotein (LDL), triglycerides and increased (p < 0.05) high density lipoprotein (HDL) and hematological parameters of the rats. However, there was no increase (p > 0.05) in liver enzymes. Phytochemical screening showed abundance of flavonoids, alkaloids, tannins and terpenoids. Conclusion: The study revealed that L. micranthus extracts from the three host plants possess antidiabetic, hypolipidemic and anti-anemic activities.