Anti-hyperglycaemic activity of<i>Moringa oleifera</i>is partly mediated by carbohydrase inhibition and glucose-fibre binding

Abstract

<i>Moringa oleifera</i> has potential anti-hyperglycaemic effects that have been reported earlier by different scientific groups using animal models of diabetes. We aimed to explore the possible mechanisms of action of <i>M. oleifera</i> extract through different methods. Primarily, we measured fasting blood glucose and performed glucose tolerance test, in Type 2 diabetic rats. Further, we studied the effects of extracts on pancreatic insulin concentration. Extracts' effect on carbohydrate breakdown was assayed using α-amylase inhibition assays and assay of six different segments of gastrointestinal (GI) tracts. An <i>in situ</i> intestinal perfusion model and a glucose fibre assay were performed to see the potentiality of <i>M. oleifera</i> on glucose absorption. <i>M. oleifera</i> showed no significant change in insulin secretion <i>in vivo</i> Additionally, substantial effect of the extract was seen on retarded glucose absorption and in the <i>in situ</i> perfusion study of rat intestinal model. α-amylase action was inhibited by the extract, yet again, these findings were further confirmed via the Six Segment assay, where sucrose digestion was found to be inhibited throughout the length of the GI tract. A combined <i>in vitro</i>, <i>in vivo</i> and <i>in situ</i> tests justified the potential of anti-hyperglycaemic activity of <i>M. oleifera</i> and its tissue level mechanism is also justified.