An Evaluation of the Antioxidants of Phytochemical Origin as a Source of Antihyperglycemic Agents in Controlling Diabetes in Albino Rats

The present study was aimed at the in-vitro and in-vivo analysis of the antioxidant status of three different plants which are commonly used in traditional medicine in Botswana and to evaluate its antidiabetic activities. The plants used in this study were the aerial parts of Ocimum gratissimum, Momordica balsamina and corms of Hypoxis hemerocallidea. It was further investigated that whether their antihyperglycemic effects are working through the antioxidant system. All the results obtained in different experiments indicate that the antioxidant status of these extracts was positive and the antidiabetic activity is working through this antioxidant system.