The effect of hydroalcoholic extract of Crataegus monogyna on hyperglycemia, oxidative stress and pancreatic tissue damage in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats

Diabetes mellitus is one of the most common metabolic diseases that causes damage to different tissues through oxidative stress. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of hydroalcoholic extract of Crataegus monogyna on oxidative stress, hyperglycemia and pancreatic tissue damage in diabetic rats. In this experimental study, 40 male Wistar rats were equally divided into 5 groups including control (normal saline), diabetic control (streptozotocin), intervention (streptozotocin plus C. monogyna extract at doses of 100, 200 and 400 mg/kg). After treatment, serum levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), Ferric reducing ability of plasma (FRAP) and glucose were determined. Histological sections of the pancreas were also prepared for histological examination. Treatment of diabetic rats with C. monogyna extract significantly reduced blood glucose level (P < 0.05). Compared with control group MDA was increased and TCA was decreased in diabetic rats (P < 0.05). Treatment of diabetic rats with C. monogyna extract significantly increased TCA and reduced MDA (P < 0.05). In the pancreas of diabetic rats, degeneration of pancreatic acinar cells and formation of dermato space, damage of lobules and Acinii and edema were observed and treatment with C. monogyna extract ameliorated them. The results confirm the role of C. monogyna extract in the treatment of hyperglycemia, stress oxidative indices and pancreatic tissue damage in diabetic rats. Therefore, it might be beneficial in diabetic patients.