A Comprehensive in Vitro and in Vivo Evaluation of the Antioxidant and Antidiabetic Potential of an Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus) Nutraceutical Formulation
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.56919/usci.2544.018Keywords:
Abelmoschus esculentus, nutraceutical formulation, antioxidant capacity, oxidative stress, alloxan-induced hyperglycemic ratsAbstract
Nutraceuticals with strong antioxidant properties offer a promising approach for managing various oxidative stress-related disorders, including diabetes. This study evaluated the antioxidant and antihyperglycaemic potentials of the previously developed okra-based antidiabetic nutraceutical formulation derived from the Ex-Maradi variety of Abelmoschus esculentus in alloxan-induced diabetic rats. Phytochemicals and in vitro antioxidant capacity of the formulation were assessed by measuring total phenolic content (TPC), total flavonoid content (TFC), and scavenging activities against DPPH, superoxide (O₂*⁻) and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). Furthermore, in vivo antioxidant parameters, including SOD, CAT, GPx, GSH, MDA, and essential antioxidant minerals (Zn, Cu, Mn, and Fe), were evaluated in both the serum and tissue homogenates of diabetic rats. The formulation exhibited good TPC (61.84 ± 5.31 mg GAE/g) and TFC (18.31 ± 2.17 mg QE/g) content. It also demonstrated strong free radical scavenging activities with low IC50 values of (0.086 ± 0.022, 0.064 ± 0.014, and 0.16 ± 0.03) mg/mL against DPPH, O₂*⁻ and H2O2, respectively. In vivo, administration of the formulation at doses of 250 and 500 mg/kg body weight for three weeks significantly (P < 0.05) ameliorated the elevated blood glucose levels in alloxan-induced hyperglycaemic rats, lowering them by about 56.66% at the 500 mg/kg dose. Additionally, it improved the activities of antioxidant enzymes (SOD, CAT, and GPx) and increased the concentrations of antioxidant minerals (Zn, Cu, Mn, and Fe) compared to the diabetic control group. These findings highlight the nutraceutical formulation's potent antioxidant and antihyperglycaemic properties, underscoring its potential as a therapeutic option for managing diabetes and conditions associated with oxidative stress.
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Copyright (c) 2025 Ismaila Muhammad, Matazu, K. I., Nasir, A., Salahudeen Yau’, Suleiman, Z. A., Hamza Ibrahim Kankia, Usman, B., Yaradua, A. I., Shamsu, S., Rufai Nasir, Aminu, G. B., Musa, T., Shamadeen, A. K., Ahmad Shehu Sani, Rukayya Gambo Lawal, Mannir Abubakar Rawayau, Ibrahim Safiyanu Darma, Aishatu Na’iya Muhammad, Hadiza Kabir Matazu, Abbas, A. Y., Bilbis, L. S. (Author)
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