Protective Effects of <i>Newbouldia laevis</i> Aqueous Leaf Extract Against Diabetes-Induced Biochemical and Oxidative Alterations in Rats

Abstract

Newbouldia laevis possesses several scientifically reported medicinal properties with potential therapeutic relevance in diabetes management. This study investigated the protective effects of aqueous leaf extract of Newbouldia laevis against diabetes-induced biochemical and oxidative alterations in experimental rats. Type 2 diabetes was induced in male rats, followed by treatment with extract at varying doses of 200, 400, and 800 mg/kg body weight, while glibenclamide (3 mg/kg) served as the standard drug. Renal, hepatic, lipid, haematological, and antioxidant parameters were evaluated. Diabetic rats showed significant (p < 0.05) elevations in urea, creatinine, liver enzymes, lipid profile parameters, and malondialdehyde levels, alongside reductions in antioxidant enzyme activities and haematological indices. Administration of N. laevis extract significantly (p < 0.05) ameliorated these alterations in a dose-dependent manner, with effects comparable to glibenclamide. The extract demonstrated potent antioxidant, antidiabetic, and organ-protective activities, particularly in the liver and kidneys. These findings suggest that aqueous leaf extract of Newbouldia laevis may serve as a promising natural therapeutic agent for the management of type 2 diabetes and its associated complications.