MODULATORY EFFECT OF METHANOLIC EXTRACT OF GARLIC (ALLIUM SATIVUM) ON HYPERGLYCAEMIA AND DYSLIPIDAEMIA ON ALLOXAN-INDUCED DIABETIC WISTAR RATS

Abstract

Diabetes mellitus is a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by persistent hyperglycemia, dyslipidemia, and oxidative stress, all of which contribute to increased cardiovascular risk. Limitations of conventional antidiabetic agents, including adverse effects and high cost, have stimulated interest in plant-based therapies. This study investigated the modulatory effects of methanolic extract of Allium sativum (Garlic) on hyperglycemia, dyslipidemia, and pancreatic histoarchitecture in alloxan-induced diabetic Wistar rats. Garlic bulbs were processed into methanolic extract and screened for phytochemicals. Acute toxicity was assessed using OECD (Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development) guidelines. Twenty Wistar rats were grouped into normal control, diabetic control, metformin-treated (250 mg/kg), and garlic extract–treated groups (250 mg/kg and 500 mg/kg). Hyperglycemia and dyslipidemia were induced using high-fat diet and alloxan. Fasting blood glucose (FBG) and lipid profile parameters—total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), HDL-C, LDL-C, and atherogenic index (AI)—were measured. Pancreatic tissues were examined histologically. Phytochemical analysis revealed flavonoids, tannins, saponins, alkaloids, terpenoids, and phenolic compounds. The extract exhibited no toxicity up to 5000 mg/kg. Diabetic controls showed elevated FBG (17.45 ± 0.59 mmol/L), TC (190 ± 2.83 mg/dL), TG (112 ± 4.24 mg/dL), LDL-C (114.50 ± 3.54 mg/dL), and AI (3.14), with reduced HDL-C (36.50 ± 0.71 mg/dL). Garlic extract significantly reduced FBG (4.00 ± 0.28–6.97 ± 1.10 mmol/L), lowered TC, TG, LDL-C, AI, and increased HDL-C in a dose-dependent manner. Histology showed partial β-cell restoration, most pronounced at 500 mg/kg. Methanolic garlic extract demonstrated strong antihyperglycemic, antihyperlipidemic, and pancreatic-protective effects comparable to metformin. These findings support its therapeutic potential as a safe, affordable option in diabetes management.