Sabastine Obinna Onugwu, Joy Mmesomachukwu Onah and Adaeze Linda Onugwu

Background: Dyslipidemia and hepatic dysfunction often coexist as key metabolic disorders associated with diabetes. Mitracarpus scaber, used traditionally for treating infections and liver disorders, has not been extensively studied for its antilipidemic and hepatoprotective potentials. This study evaluated the pharmacognostic characteristics, antilipidemic, and hepatoprotective effects of methanol and dichloromethane extracts of Mitracarpus scaber on alloxan-induced diabetic rats. The leaves of M. scaber were collected, dried, and extracted with methanol and dichloromethane. Phytochemical and pharmacognostic analyses were conducted using standard procedures. Alloxan-induced diabetic rats were treated with graded doses (100-400 mg/kg) of the extract, and lipid and liver enzyme parameters were analyzed. Macroscopically, the plant showed green rough leaves with mild odor and white clustered flowers. Microscopical evaluation revealed irregular epidermal cells, amphisomatic stomata, and unicellular trichomes. Phytochemical screening indicated abundant flavonoids, tannins, and phenols, with traces of cyanides and glycosides. Lipid profile results demonstrated a dose-dependent reduction in total cholesterol, LDL, and triglycerides, with a corresponding rise in HDL. Liver function tests showed decreased ALT and AST levels compared to untreated diabetic rats. The findings validate the traditional use of Mitracarpus scaber as an antilipidemic and hepatoprotective agent. Its phytochemical constituents contribute to lipid regulation and liver protection in diabetic conditions.

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