In vitro (anti-alpha-glucosidase) activity and in vivo anti-diabetic activity of Androsace foliosa (common rock jasmine) in alloxan-induced diabetic BALB/c mice

Androsace foliosa syn. Androsace sarmentosa (botanical name of common rock jasmine) (Primulaceae) is used in the treatment various disorders. The aim of this study is to evaluate in vitro anti-diabetic activity of crude methanolic extract of leaves and roots of A. foliosa by anti-alpha-glucosidase (alpha-Glc) and in vivo anti-diabetic activity of n-hexane fraction on alloxan-induced diabetic mice. Results of in vitro anti-diabetic (alpha-Glc) activity showed that n-hexane leaves fraction was most potent among all the fractions and showed IC50 (half maximal inhibitory concentration) value of 64.91 +/- 0.16 mu g and % inhibition of 89.35 +/- 0.45, comparable to that of standard acarbose. In vivo n-hexane leaves fraction decreases blood glucose level and reduces body weight similar to that of standard drug glibenclamide. Based on the conclusion of both in vitro and in vivo activities, it can be accomplished that the plant A. foliosa acquires noteworthy anti-diabetic action and can be used to treat diabetes mellitus type II and to reduce body weight.