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

Background: Moringa oleifera has potential anti-hyperglycemic effects that is reported earlier by different scientific group using animal diabetic models. We aimed to explore the possible mechanism of action of M. oleifera extract through different method. Methods : Primarily we measured Fasting Blood Glucose and performed Glucose Tolerance Test, in type 2 diabetic rats. Further we studied the effect of extracts on pancreatic insulin concentration. Extracts effect on carbohydrate break down was assayed using α-amylase inhibition assays and assay of GI tracts six different segments. An in situ intestinal perfusion model and a glucose fiber assay was performed to see the potentiality of M. oleifera on glucose absorption. Results: M. oleifera showed no significant change in insulin secretion in vivo . Additionally, substantial effect of the extract was seen on retarded glucose absorption and in the in situ perfusion study of rat intestinal model. α-amylase action was inhibited by the extract, yet again, this findings was further confirmed via the Six Segment assay, where sucrose digestion was found to be inhibited throughout the length of the GI Tract. Conclusion: A combined in vitro , in vivo and in situ tests justified that the anti-hyperglycemic activity of M. oleifera is potential and its tissue level mechanism is also justified.