INVIVO ANTIOXIDANT AND HYPOGLYCEMIC ACTIVITY OF ALKALOIDS, FLAVONOIDS AND SAPONINS EXTRACTS OF ZIZIPHUS JUJUBE (RED DATE) LEAVES IN ALLOXAN-INDUCED DIABETIC WISTAR RATS

ABSTRACT Diabetes Mellitus (DM) is an autoimmune disease characterized by chronic hyperglycemia which can lead to severe complications of left untreated. Ziziphus jujube (Z. jujube), which is commonly known as jujube or Chinese date, is a fruit-bearing plant known widely for its potential health benefits. This study aimed to determine the in vivo antidiabetic and antioxidant potential of Z. jujube leaves extracts (alkaloids(A), flavonoids(F), and saponins(S)) in alloxan-induced diabetic rats. Quantitative Phytochemical analysis was conducted to determine the concentration of alkaloids flavonoids, and saponins. The extracts of the selected phytonutrients, antioxidant and antidiabetic studies were carried out by following the standard methods. The extract was administered at doses (200 and 400mg/kg bw) and antioxidant activity was assessed with these biomarkers Catalase (CAT) Superoxide Dismutase (SOD) and Glutathione (GSH). The quantitative photochemical composition of the plant extract showed alkaloids having the highest concentration (13.22±0.12) followed by Flavonoids (9.83±0.23) and Saponins (8.03±0.97). The results showed significant reductions in fasting blood glucose levels (FBG) in treated groups, with S400 (96.86±2.28 mg/dL) and F400 (106.61±5.09) exhibiting the most potent antidiabetic activities. Body weight increases were also observed, with S400 (168.88±3.37 g) and A400 (144.91±4.05 g) showing significant gains. Antioxidant activity was enhanced, with CAT (24.06±1.08 U/mL), SOD (32.62±1.05U/mL), and GSH (57.48±0.61) levels significantly increased. This study demonstrates the potential of Ziziphus jujube extracts as natural antidiabetic and antioxidant agents, supporting their traditional use in managing diabetes.