Evaluation of free radical scavenging properties and hypoglycemic activity of ethanolic extract of Tridax procumbens Linn. in Wistar rats

Objective: The aim was to evaluate the free radical scavenging properties and hypoglycemic effect of ethanolic extract of whole plant of Tridax procumbens in Wistar rats. Materials and Methods: The plants parts were powdered and extracted with ethanol. The ethanolic extract was used for screening of hypoglycemic activity. The free radical scavenging properties and hypoglycemic effect of ethanolic extract of T. procumbens were studied using 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl methods and oral glucose tolerance test. Result: The free radical scavenging properties of the ethanolic extract of T. procumbens was comparable with ascorbic acid. The plant extract was not affecting normal animal glucose levels, whereas its affects hyperglycemia induced by glucose load. The glucose lowering effect (hypoglycemic) of ethanolic extract of T. procumbens was dose dependent. Conclusion: The ethanolic extract of T. procumbens did not affect the normal animal glucose levels and preventing the hyperglycemia induced by glucose load in rodents