Aims: The aim of the study was to assess the antihyperglycemic effect of Brassica rapa.
Background: Brassica rapa (turnip) is used as an antidiabetic plant.
Objective: This work aimed to evaluate the effect of the aqueous extract of Brassica rapa seeds (AEBRS) on glycemia in vivo.
Methods: The effect of AEBRS (60 mg/kg) on glycemia and lipid profiles was evaluated. Besides, preliminary phytochemical analysis and the in vitro antioxidant effect were evaluated.
Results: AEBRS caused a significant reduction in blood glucose levels in diabetic rats (p<0.0001). In contrast, no significant effect was observed on lipid profiles, whereas antioxidant potential of this extract has been shown. Phytochemical analysis showed the presence of many important phytochemical families.
Conclusion: The present study shows that AEBRS has a potent antihyperglycemic ability in diabetic rats.
Keywords: Brassica rapa seeds, medicinal plant, streptozotocin, antidiabetic, phytochemistry, antioxidant activity.