Effect of Hydro-Alcoholic Extract of Cucurbita Maxima, Fruit Juice and Glibenclamide on Blood Glucose in Diabetic Rats

Problem statement: Cucurbita maxima has been used traditionally in Mexico, China and India as antidiabetic agents. Approach: The present study was to evaluate the hypoglycemic activity of fruit juice and hydro-alcoholic extract of Cucurbita maxima for validation of its folkloric use. Results: Hypoglycemic activity was evaluated on streptozotocin induced diabetic rats at the doses of 100 and 200 mg kg^-1 for 28 days. Blood glucose level was evaluated on 0, 7, 14, 21 and 28 days. Oral daily administration of both fruit juice and extract led to significant decrease in hyperglycemia as compared to unfed diabetic control. High dose of both the treatment is more effective than low dose. Extract show more hypoglycemic effect than fruit juice. Conclusion/Recommendations: The result of this study scientifically proved the folkloric use of Cucurbita maxima as hypoglycemic agent. Thus the plant can be key contributor in alternative remedy in the treatment of diabetes.