Effect of Viola tricolor hydro-ethanolic extract on serum glucose and lipids in streptozotocin-nicotinamide-induced diabetic rats

Viola tricolor is one of the medicinal plants of the Violaceae family, which possesses antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. This study aims to investigate the effect of V. tricolor hydro-ethanolic extract on glucose levels and serum lipid profile in diabetic rats.

The rats were injected intraperitoneally with streptozotocin and nicotine to induce diabetes. Diabetic rats were divided into four groups. The first group received no treatment, and the second to fourth groups received glibenclamide and extract of V. tricolor with doses of 300 and 600 mg/kg for 30 consecutive days by gavage. Blood glucose level, lipid profile, and body weight were assessed at the end of the period.

When administered at a dose of 600 mg/kg, V. tricolor extract significantly reduced the levels of glucose, cholesterol, triglycerides, and low-density lipoprotein in the serum of diabetic rats. It also increased high-density lipoprotein and body weight in these animals.

The results indicate that the Viola tricolor is beneficial in reducing complications caused by type 2 diabetes.