Evaluation of Hypoglycemic Effects of Yemeni Ficus carica Leaves Extract on Dexamethasone-Induced Hyperglycemic Rabbits

Abstract

Background: Medicinal plants play a significant role in treating diabetes mellitus worldwide. One such plant found in Yemen is Ficus carica. Aim: This study aimed to evaluate the hypoglycemic effect of Ficus carica leaf extract on dexamethasone-induced diabetic rabbits and to identify the bioactive components in the extract. Methods: The study involved the extraction of active constituents from Ficus carica leaves, followed by testing the hypoglycemic effect of the extract on diabetic rabbits induced by dexamethasone in combination with a high-fat diet. Fasting blood glucose levels were measured two hours after administering the extract, and the results were compared with a standard hypoglycemic drug (Daonil). Results: Two extracts of Ficus carica (methanol and dichloromethane) were tested on normal rabbits. Only the dichloromethane (DCM) extract showed hypoglycemic activity, which led to its selection for further study. The DCM extract exhibited a significant hypoglycemic effect in diabetic rabbits, surpassing that of the standard drug Daonil. Conclusions: The results of this study indicate that among the two extracts tested (methanol and DCM), only the DCM extract demonstrated hypoglycemic activity. Furthermore, the hypoglycemic effect of the DCM extract was more potent compared to the standard drug Daonil, suggesting its potential as an effective treatment for diabetes.