Comparative study on the biological effect of Trigonella foenum graecum (Fenugreek) and Lupinus termis in diabetic albino rats

A number of herbs are traditionally used in Sudan to treat different diseases. In the present study the therapeutic effects of Trigonella foenum graecum (Fenugreek), and Lupinus termis aqueous extracts in glucose-induced diabetic albino rats and the subchronic toxicity of these plants was investigated. Forty-two albino rats of either sex (weighing 135-250 g and aged 60 days) were used. Animals were assigned to seven equal groups (N=6); intact control and six diabetic groups. Diabetes was induced by 5% glucose (2mg/kg b.w). Group (1) was administered with drinking water and assigned as control, groups 2, 3 and 4 were administered with Trigonella foenum aqueous extract (200, 400 and 800 mg/kg b.w, respectively) and groups 5, 6 and 7 were administered with Lupinus termis aqueous extract (200, 400 and 800 mg/kg b.w, respectively). Blood samples were obtained to assess blood glucose level, α-amylase, cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein (HDL) and triglycerides concentrations. In treated diabetic rats, blood glucose level markedly decreased to the normal range. Reduction in cholesterol, triglycerides, and HDL was also observed. Reduction of α-amylase concentration was shown with a low dose (200 mg/kg b.w.) of the extracts of both plants. The present studied plants clearly demonstrate the non-toxic nature and safety profile. The combined history human use of these plants and the data from the current study support the safe use of these plants. It can be concluded that Trigonella foenum graecum seed and Lupinus termis fruit aqueous extract have anti-hyperglycemic effect by affecting both blood glucose level and α-amylase. Trigonella foenum graecum has higher hypoglycemic than Lupinus termis.