Effect of Ethyl Acetate Extract of Ferula asafoetida Oleo-Gum Resin on the Glucose Level and Lipid Profile in Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Rats

 The potential antidiabetic effects of medicinal plants are investigated since long ago by researchers in medicine. Ferula asafoetida, as a medicinal herb, is traditionally used for the treatment of asthma, epilepsy, stomach pain, bloating, and diabetes.

 The current study aimed at investigating the effect of ethyl acetate extract of F. asafoetida on the glucose level and lipid profile in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats.

 The F. asafoetida extract (25, 50, and 100 mg/kg) was injected intraperitoneally to diabetic rats once daily for a 28-day period. The diabetic control group received the extract solvent as a vehicle by the same manner. Serum levels of glucose, triglycerides, cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein (LDL), and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) were measured on the days 0, 17, and 31 of the intervention. In addition, animals’ weight changes were monitored during the experiment.

 The F. asafoetida extract significantly reduced serum glucose, triglycerides, cholesterol, and LDL levels in diabetic rats, compared to the controls. Moreover, the weight-loss observed in diabetic animals receiving the extract was insignificant. The extract had no effect on the serum HDL level.

 Ferula asafoetida influenced serum glucose decrease and improved lipid profile in diabetic animals. However, further research should be conducted on the mechanisms of actions of F. asafoetida extract.