Abstract:
The seeds of Cola nitida were investigated for their anti-diabetic properties. The extracts
were obtained by maceration in cold water. Alloxan was used to induce diabetes mellitus
(DM) in the rats at 180mg/kg body weight and diabetes was confirmed after 48 hours. The
Phytochemical analyses of the plants showed the presence of tannin, flavonoid,
terpernoid, cardiac-gylcoside, and alkaloids. Anthraquinone and saponin were observed
to be absent. Cola nitida was also observed to cause a reduction in blood glucose level
from 599±0.667mg/dl (diabetic control) to 170±0.577mg/dl (extract treated group). The
extract showed a significant (P<0.05) decrease of blood glucose level in alloxan induced
diabetic rats. Cola nitida aqueous extract showed a higher level of potency when
compared to a known anti-diabetic drug (Glanil).
