The effects of ethanol extract of
Trigonella Foenum-Graecum
(Fenugreek) seeds on the blood glucose levels
in alloxan-induced diabetic rats at different doses (2g/kg, 1g/kg, 0.5g/kg and 0.1g/kg) were studied. The
hypoglycemic effect of extract was compared with that of the standard antidiabetic drug (glimepiride, 4mg/kg) single
dose. The extract showed significant activity against the diabetic state induced by alloxan but the intensity of
hypoglycemic effect varied from dose to dose. The most effective dose recognized was 1g/kg but that is still lower
than the standard antidiabetic drug. No acute toxicity was observed for ethanol extract of
T. foenum-graecum seed
when it was administered orally at high dose level (3 g/kg body weight), which is higher than effective
antihyperglycemic dose, and closely observed for 24 hrs for any mortality and next 10 days for any delayed toxic
effects on gross behavioral activities. Phytochemical group tests were also accomplished and presence of alkaloids,
steroids and carbohydrates were recognized in the extract.
