The Journal of Phytopharmacology 2026; 15(4):256-264 DOI:10.31254/phyto.2026.15408

Research Article

Unveiling the anti-diabetic potential of Clerodendrum splendens leaf extract in STZ and high-fat diet-induced type 2 diabetic rats

Md. Jahir Alam^1,2 , Shabnaz Akter² , Md. Mizanur Rahman³ , Masum Shahriar¹

Md. Jahir Alam,Shabnaz Akter,Md. Mizanur Rahman,Masum Shahriar

1. Department of Pharmacy, Jahangirnagar University, Savar, Dhaka-1342, Bangladesh
2. Department of Pharmacy, Gono Bishwabidyalay, Savar, Dhaka-1344, Bangladesh
3. Department of Pharmacy, Daffodil International University, Birulia, Savar, Dhaka-1216, Bangladesh

*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.

Received: 3rd May, 2026 / Accepted: 25th August, 2026 / Published : 31st August, 2026

Abstract

Background: Type-2 Diabetes Mellitus is a chronic and rising illness worldwide and natural anti-diabetic agents may be attractive alternatives to modern anti-diabetic drugs. Objective: This research looked into the anti-diabetic properties of Clerodendrum splendens (CS) leaf extract in type-2 diabetic rats. Methods: Glucose tolerance was tested orally (OGTT) in normal animals. Type-2 diabetes was mediated with high fat diet and a single IP injection of streptozotocin and diabetic rats with FBG level of 8–12 mmol/L were used in the study. Body weight and serum glucose were determined at every 7 days for 28 days. After 28 days, weight of pancreas, serum lipid profile, kidney & liver markers, HbA1C & liver glycogen contents were estimated. In-vitro α-amylase inhibitory assay, glucose utilization capacity, remaining sucrose content in the gut and gut motility were tested. Results: C. splendens showed significant effect in acute (p<0.001) and sub-chronic (p<0.001) hypoglycemic study. It slightly inhibited α-amylase (IC₅₀=2.29 mg/mL), significantly increased glucose utilization (p<0.01), retained gut sucrose (p<0.01) and inhibited GI motility (p<0.01). The extract also improved lipidemic status (p<0.01); creatinine (p<0.01), urea (p<0.05); enhanced liver glycogen storage (p<0.05) and reduced SGPT (p<0.01) & SGOT (p<0.001). Conclusion: C. splendens exhibited anti-diabetic potential by reducing carbohydrate absorption, increasing peripheral glucose utilization. It also improved lipids and other biochemicals linked to type-2 diabetes mellitus.