Uncovering the antidiabetic potential of Hibiscus sabdariffa leaf mucilage: A natural approach to managing glycaemic and lipid levels

This research assessed the antidiabetic efficacy of mucilage derived from Hibiscus sabdariffa leaves in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rats. The mucilage was orally administered at doses of 300 mg/kg and 600 mg/kg for a duration of 21 days, with metformin (65mg/kg) serving as a positive control. The evaluated key indicators comprised overnightfasting blood glucose (FBG), body weight, lipid composition, haematological characteristics, and antioxidant activity. The results indicated a substantial 30% decrease in fasting blood glucose levels in the 600 mg/kg mucilage group relative to the diabetes controls. Furthermore, the mucilage enhanced body weight stability and lipid profiles, resulting in significant reductions in overall cholesterol (18.9%), triglycerides (27.1%), and LDL, while simultaneously increasing HDL. The mucilage showed no toxicity at doses up to 2000 mg/kg and did not negatively impact haematological markers. The phytochemical examination revealed the presence of carbohydrates, polysaccharides, and phenols (55.41±0.6mg GAE/g) in the plant. The DPPH assay indicated modest antioxidant activity (IC₅₀ = 79.12μg/ml). The findings indicate that Hibiscus sabdariffa leaf mucilage exhibits notable antidiabetic and hypolipidemic characteristics, possibly due to its polysaccharide and phenolic constituents, and may function as a safe, natural medicinal agent for diabetes control.