Insulin secretory actions of extracts of Asparagus racemosus root in n m

del-w Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a major cause of disability and the world (Swanston-Flatt et al. 1991a,b, Gray & Flatt 1997). (Nadkarni 1976, Chadha 1985). The root of the plant has also range of biological activities. These include antimutagenic, antitumor, antifungal (Edenharder 1990, Shimoyamada et al. steroidal saponins (Shao et al. 1996). Various reports suggest that evaluate mixtures of constituents and the fresh root juice of 159Journal of Endocrinology (2007) 192, 159–168been claimed by traditional healers to possess antidiabetic properties. A. racemosus has been found to be effective in dyspepsia, being associated with anti-ulcerogenic activity (De et al. 1997, Sairam DOI: 10.1677/joe.1.07084Asparagus racemosus (Liliaceae) is a popular vegetable consumed in many parts of the world and grows naturally throughout India, Asia, Australia and Africa. It is commonl