Abstract
Introduction: Diabetes mellitus (DM) is the most common endocrine disease. Hibiscus esculentus (L.) with common name of okra is a rich source of biologically active molecules.
Objectives: This study aimed to examine the effects of mucilage and seeds of okra on various biochemical and histopathological features of streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rats.
Materials and Methods: Forty male Wistar rats were divided randomly into 4 groups of 10 mice each: Two groups received seed (2 g/kg bw/day, i.p.) and mucilage (2 g/kg bw/day, i.p.) of okra daily for 14 days. Diabetes were induced in rats by administration of STZ (60 mg/kg bw, i.p.). Treatment was started from 2 weeks prior to the induction of diabetes and continued for another 3 weeks thereafter.
Results: Serum glucose, total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), triglycerides and malondialdehyde (MDA) was increased and serum insulin decreased significantly in diabetic rats compared to other groups. Mucilage consumption decreased glucose, total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), LDL-C in diabetic rats and increased insulin level. Seed consumption significantly decreased glucose, antioxidant capacity, C-reactive protein (CRP), cholesterol, HDL, LDL, triglyceride and increased insulin level in diabetic rats. In diabetic rats that were treated with mucilage and seed of okra, histomorphic examinations showed reduction of inflammation in pancreatic beta cells.
Conclusion: Dietary supplementation with okra is effective in reducing serum glucose, CRP and lipid levels whilst improving antioxidant capacity in STZ-induced diabetic rats, showing the promising antihyperglycemic, antihyperlipidemic, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of okra seeds.