Evaluation of Anti-Hyperglycemic Activity of Adiantum Philippense Linn, a Pteridophyte in Alloxan Induced Diabetic Rats

Adiantum philippense Linn is commonly known as 'Hanspadi' or 'Walking Maiden hair fern'.It is widely distributed in many parts of India and used as an ornamental plant.It is ethnomedicinally used in bleeding diseases, burning sensation, erysipelas, epileptic fits, dysentery, and elephantiasis 5.It has been reported that the dried whole plant has been used as a medicine for bronchitis and cough 6.Adiantum philippense is also reported to have anti-bacterial 7 and anti-fungal activity 8. Adiantum capillus veneries, a fern of the same genus as that ofAdiantum philippense Linn possess antidiabetic potential which is marketed with brand name "Avenca TM ".Belonging to the same genus and family of Pteridophytes, insufficient information was available regarding anti diabetic potential of Adiantum philippense Linn (Adiantum lunulatum Burm f.) which led us to investigate its antihyperglycemic potential on alloxan induced diabetic rats. Materials and Methods Collection and authentication