Hypoglycemic and hypolipidemic effects of TRIBULUS TERRESTRIS L . and THLASPI ARVENSE L In type 2 diabetic rats

Abstract

Background: In Mongolian traditional medicine, many herbs have been used as part of multicomponent herbal medicines for the treatment of diabetes. Tribulus terrestris L. (puncture vine) and Thlaspi arvense L. (pennycress) are mainly used in traditional medicine for the treatment of kidney disease, single or in combination with other herbs. Also, they are included in certain multicomponent herbal medicines prescribed for diabetes. The present study was aimed to examine the anti-hyperglycemic and anti-hyperlipidemic activities of the seeds of Tribulus terrestris and Thlaspi arvense in rat model of type 2 diabetes. Methods: A rat model of type 2 diabetes was induced via high fat diet combined with low doses of streptozotocin. Herbs were given intragastrically for 14 days. Fasting blood glucose levels were determined during treatment at 0, 10 and 14 days. After 14 days of treatment, serum levels of triglyceride, total cholesterol, low density lipoprotein and high density lipoprotein were determined. Results: Seeds of Tribulus terrestris and Thlaspi arvense significantly reduced fasting glucose levels in rats with type 2 diabetes. Serum levels of triglyceride, total cholesterol and low density lipoprotein were significantly reduced following Tribulus terrestris treatment, whereas high density lipoprotein level was increased. Conclusion: Seeds of Mongolian plants Thlaspi arvense and Tribulus terrestris possess anti-hyperglycemic activities in rats with type 2 diabetes. Tribulus terrestris seeds improve the lipid profile in rat model of type 2 diabetes.