PHYTOCHEMICAL PROFILE AND HYPOGLYCEMIC EFFECTS OF AZANZA GARCKEANA (FENZL) F. MUELL, FRUIT PULP: A POTENTIAL NATURAL ALTERNATIVE FOR DIABETES MANAGEMENT

Abstract

Azanza garckeana is an indigenous medicinal fruit widely used traditionally for the management of diseases, including diabetes mellitus. This study aimed to evaluate the phytochemical constituents, acute toxicity profile, and antidiabetic activity of the aqueous fruit pulp extract of Azanza garckeana in experimental rats. Qualitative and quantitative phytochemical analyses were conducted to identify the bioactive constituents in the fruit pulp extract. The acute toxicity of the extract was assessed using experimental Wistar albino rats, while its antidiabetic activity was evaluated by administering graded doses and monitoring blood glucose levels at predetermined time intervals Phytochemical screening revealed the presence of flavonoids, terpenoids, saponin glycosides, tannins, cardiac glycosides, and free anthraquinones, with flavonoids constituting the predominant bioactive compounds. The aqueous extract produced a dose-dependent reduction in blood glucose levels, with the 800 mg/kg dose producing the greatest hypoglycemic effect after 24 hours (p< 0.01). The 400 mg/kg dose significantly reduced blood glucose levels at 12 and 24 hours (p< 0.01), while the 200 mg/kg dose showed a significant reduction at 24 hours (p< 0.05). Acute toxicity evaluation revealed no mortality even at high doses, suggesting a wide safety margin, although weakness and dizziness were observed at higher doses. The findings demonstrate that Azanza garckeana possesses potential phytochemical constituents and exhibits promising antidiabetic activity with a favourable safety profile in experimental rats. These results support its traditional medicinal use and suggest its potential as a natural therapeutic agent for the management of diabetes mellitus.