Effects of Manilkara hexandra on blood glucose levels of normal and Alloxan induced diabetic rats

The dried bark of Manilkara hexandra is used traditionally, as an antidiabetic agent in India. To determine if there is a scientific basis for this use, the effects of the methanolic extracts on blood glucose levels were assessed in normoglycemic and alloxan induced diabetic rats. Blood glucose levels were evaluated at the intervals of 0, 1, 2, 3 and 6 h. Treatment of alloxan induced diabetic rats with Manilkara hexandra reduced glucose levels significantly and the extract is devoid of a significant hypoglycemic effect in normal rats. The finding of the present study in Manilkara hexandra lends credence to its folklore use in the management and/or control of type II diabetes.