Safety evaluation studies of Citrullus colocynthis for diabetes in rats

• Main Authors: S.K Atole, C.R Jangde, Preety Philip, D.S Rekhe, D.V. Aghav, H.J. Waghode, A.M.Chougule
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: Veterinary World 2009-01-01
• Series: Veterinary World
• Subjects: Diabetes; Safety Evaluation; Metabolic disease; Herbal drug
• Online Access: http://www.scopemed.org/fulltextpdf.php?mno=36530
• ISSN: 0972-8988; 2231-0916

An experiment conducted in the department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Nagpur Veterinary College, Nagpur reported Citrullus colocynthis to posses antidiabetic effect in rats at the rate of 50 mg/kg b.w and 100mg/kg b.w. So it was decided to also evaluate the safety of Citrullus colocynthis in rats at its antidiabetic dose. The experiment was conducted for 28 days .18 wistar rats were divided into three groups containing six rats in each group. Group T1 was maintained as normal control, whereas groups T2 and T3 received aqueous extract of Citrullus colocynthis @ 50 and 100 mg/kg body weight. Haematological and Biochemical estimations were done at the end of experiment i.e. on 29th day by using standard kits. Rats were then sacrificed and histopathological examinations were done. The results obtained showed that Citrullus colocynthis is safe at its antidiabetic dose and is safe for use as an antidiabetic remedy. [Vet World 2009; 2(11.000): 423-425]