Phytochemical Contents and Effect of Ethanol Extract of Clinacanthus Nutans Leaf on the Serum Lipid Profile of Alloxan-Induced Diabetic Rats

Abstract

Background: Plant-derived extracts are increasingly investigated as alternative for managing diabetes-associated hyperlipidaemia. This study evaluated the phytochemical contents and effects of ethanol extract of Clinacanthus nutans leaves on lipid profile of alloxan-induced diabetic rats. Methods: Leaves of C. nutans were processed and extracted using standard ethanol extraction procedure after air-drying at 25 °C. Phytochemical contents were determined using established method. A 100 mg/mL stock solution was prepared and administered orally through an intragastric tube for 21 days. Diabetes was induced in Wistar rats using alloxan. Twenty-five Wistar rats were randomly assigned into five groups (n = 5): three groups received 200, 500, and 800 mg/kg of the extract; one group received 500 µg/kg of glibenclamide; and one group served as untreated control. Lipid profiles were determined using standard methods. Data were analysed using mean ± SD and paired t-test at p < 0.05.