Effectiveness of Calotropis leaf on HbA1c level among Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus clients

Introduction: Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus, a prevalent chronic metabolic disorder, continues to pose a significant global health challenge with rising incidence and associated complications. Despite advancements in conventional treatments, Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus clients struggle to achieve optimal glycemic control, as indicated by HbA1c levels. This necessitates an exploration of complementary approaches, which offer promising avenues. Calotropis procera and Calotropis gigantea have a history in traditional medicine for treating various ailments, including reported hypoglycemic effects, which warrant scientific investigation into their topical application.
Aim: This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of Calotropis leaf application on HbA1c levels among Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus clients in a selected community in Coimbatore.
Materials and Methods: A quasi-experimental pretest-posttest design was employed with 100 clients with Type II Diabetes Mellitus (50 experimental, 50 control), selected by convenience sampling. The experimental group received routine treatment, supplemented with daily application of Calotropis leaves under the soles, for 60 days, while the control group received only routine treatment. HbA1c levels were measured at baseline (Day 1) and after 60 days (Day 60) for both groups. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics, including t-tests and chi-square tests.
Results: At baseline, both groups had comparable mean HbA1c levels (Experimental: 9.70 ± 0.78; Control: 9.73 ± 1.15; P=0.887). After 60 days, the experimental group showed a significant reduction in mean HbA1c to 6.66 ± 1.63 (paired t = 13.94, P = 0.000), with 42.0% achieving normal levels and 32.0% achieving pre-diabetes levels. Whereas, the control group's mean HbA1c remained unchanged (9.72 ± 1.27; paired t=0.081, P=0.935). A highly significant difference in post-intervention mean HbA1c was observed between groups (mean difference=3.06, unpaired t=10.475, P=0.000).
Conclusion: The application of Calotropis leaves proved to be a highly effective complementary intervention, significantly reducing HbA1c levels in type 2 diabetes mellitus clients. This suggests its potential as a valuable and accessible to conventional diabetes management.