Evaluation of Anti-diabetic Activity of Cucurbita Maxima (Seeds) and Triticum aestivum (Wheatgrass) Extract in Wistar Rats

Abstract

Background: Diabetes mellitus is a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by hyperglycemia resulting from defects in insulin secretion, insulin action, or both. Synthetic antidiabetic drugs, though effective, are associated with various side effects, creating interest in plant-based alternatives. Cucurbita maxima (pumpkin seeds) and Triticum aestivum (wheatgrass) are traditionally used for their nutritional and medicinal properties, including potential antidiabetic activity.

Aim: The present study evaluates the antidiabetic activity of Cucurbita maxima seed extract and Triticum aestivum wheatgrass extract in streptozotocin-induced diabetic Wistar rats.

Methods: Ethanolic extracts of C. maxima seeds and T. aestivum wheatgrass were prepared and subjected to preliminary phytochemical screening. Diabetes was induced in Wistar rats using streptozotocin (55 mg/kg, i.p.). Animals were divided into six groups: normal control, diabetic control, standard drug (Glibenclamide), C. maxima extract, T. aestivum extract, and combination extract. Treatments were administered orally for 28 days. Fasting blood glucose, body weight, lipid profile, HbA1c, and pancreatic histopathology were evaluated.

Results: Diabetic rats showed a significant increase in fasting blood glucose, reduction in body weight, elevated lipid levels, and destruction of pancreatic β-cells. Treatment with C. maxima and T. aestivum extracts produced a significant (p < 0.05) reduction in fasting blood glucose, improvement in lipid parameters, and partial restoration of body weight. Histopathological examination revealed regeneration and improved architecture of islets of Langerhans in treated groups, with the combination extract showing the greatest protective effect comparable to the standard drug.

Conclusion: The study demonstrates that Cucurbita maxima seed extract and Triticum aestivum wheatgrass extract possess significant antidiabetic activity in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. Their combination exhibits synergistic potential, suggesting these natural agents may serve as effective complementary therapies in diabetes management.

Keywords: Cucurbita maxima; Triticum aestivum;Antidiabetic activity;Herbal extracts; β-cell regeneration.