The Journal of Phytopharmacology, 2018;7(3):253-256 DOI:10.31254/phyto.2018.7304

Research Article

Amelioration of histological changes and associated metabolic abnormalities by a combination of Morinda lucida and metformin in diabetic rats

Atanu FO¹ , Momoh S¹ , Ugwu CE² , Ameh O¹ , Suleiman MS¹

Atanu FO,Momoh S,Ugwu CE,Ameh O,Suleiman MS

1. Department of Biochemistry, Kogi State University, Anyigba, Kogi State, Nigeria
2. Department of Human Biochemistry Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, Nnamdi Azikiwe University Nnewi Campus, Anambra State, Nigeria

*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.

Received: 13th March, 2018 / Accepted: 27th April, 2018

Abstract

This work investigates the ability of Morinda lucida and co-administration of Morinda lucida/metformin in the control of biochemical and histological changes in alloxan-induced diabetic rats. Alloxan diabetic rats were treated with 200 mg/Kg body weight of Morinda lucida leaves extract, 1 mg/Kg BW of metformin or a combination of the two treatments for 28 days. Results of the studies revealed that Morinda lucida leaves extract significantly improved lipid profile and kidney function in diabetic rats. These positive outcomes were enhanced by combined treated with Morinda lucida leaves extract and metformin. Furthermore, the calculated atherogenic index of treated animals were close to those of normal rats as opposed to diabetic rats. Similarly, histological studies showed that Morinda lucida leaves extract and metformin administered together or singly, ameliorated damages in pancreas and kidneys from alloxan diabetic rats. It can therefore be inferred that combined treatment with Morinda lucida leaves extract and merformin could improve the potency of Morinda lucida leaves used in the management of diabetic complications.