Effect of methanol extract of cocos nucifera husk (MECH) in Alloxan-induced toxicity in Wistar male rats

The present study investigated the effect of Methanol extract of Cocos nucifera Husk (MECH) in alloxan-induced toxicity in male wistar rats. Thirty-six (36) male rats were randomly divided into six experimental groups (n=6). Group 1 was administered distilled water). Groups 2, 3, 4, 5and 6 were made diabetic by a single intraperitoneal dose of 150mg/kg body weight (bwt) of alloxon monohydrate. Group 2 served as diabetic non-treated, Group 3 (positive control) was treated orally with gibenclamide at 2mg/kg bwt. Groups 4, 5, and 6 were treated with MECH extract orally at doses of 62.5mg/kg, 125.0mg/kg, and 250mg/kg body weight for 28 days respectively. The fasting blood sugar (FBS) was taken on days 0, 1, 7, 14, 21, and 28. At the end of 28 days, the serum biochemical parameters were measured (assigned). MECH demonstrated a significant (P<0.05) dose-dependent reduction in the fasting blood sugar (FBS) of the diabetic rats as compared to the untreated control group. A decrease of 68.5%, 78.25%, and 47% respectively on day 28. In other words, the highest reduction was seen at 125mg/kg FBS. There was a significant (P<0.05) increase in levels of Alanine aminotransferase (ALT), Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and urea in the alloxan-intoxicated rat when compared with normal control. MECH reduced the level of ALT, ALP, and urea compared with the diabetic control. These findings showed that MECH has significant antidiabetic activity where comparable with glibenclamide. It also may protect against DM-induced hepatorenal injuries in rats.