Abstract

Introduction: Medicinal plants are known for their effects in attenuation of hyperglycemia and restoration of lipids to normal levels. In this study, the effects of oral administration of Crataegus spp (CS) branchlet on serum glucose, lipids, and beta cell density in diabetic rats were investigated. Materials and Methods: Male NMRI rats (n = 32) were divided into 4 groups, i.e. control, CS-treated control, diabetic, and the CS-treated diabetic groups. The treatment groups received oral administration of plant-mixed pelleted food (6.25%) for 6 weeks. Serum glucose, triglycerides, total cholesterol, LDL- and HDL- cholesterol concentrations were determined before the study, and 3 and 6 weeks after the study. Density of beta cells in in 4 groups was determined using the monochrome Gomori staining method. Results: Serum glucose concentration was significantly lower in the CS-treated diabetic group, compared to diabetics, 3 and 6 weeks after the study (p<0.05). In addition, there were no significant changes regarding serum total cholesterol, triglycerides, and HDL-cholesterol concentrations in the treated diabetic group as compared to the diabetic group. On the other hand, the treated diabetic group showed significantly lower levels of LDL-cholesterol as compared to the diabetic group (p<0.05). Regarding histology, beta cell density significantly decreased in diabetic rats, while CS treatment caused no changes. Conclusion: Oral administration of CS has a significant hypoglycemic effect and lowers serum LDL-cholesterol.