This study investigated the comparative phytochemical composition and antidiabetic activity of two Hibiscus sabdariffa (red and white) varieties. Both varieties were analyzed for their bioactive components and hypoglycemic effects using methanol calyx extracts in rats with alloxan-induced diabetes. Phytochemical screening revealed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, saponins, and cardiac glycosides in both varieties, with the red variety exhibiting higher concentrations of tannins and flavonoids. The red variety also yielded a higher extractive value (9.65%) than the white variety (8.58%). The activity of antidiabetic of the plants was assessed by monitoring post-treatment blood glucose levels. Both extracts demonstrated significant hypoglycemic effects, with the red variety demonstrating superior glucose-lowering efficacy at higher doses. This enhanced activity is attributed to its higher concentrations of flavonoids and phenolic compounds, which inhibit carbohydrate-digesting enzymes and mitigate oxidative stress.1 The findings revealed that H. sabdariffa, particularly the white variety, has great potential as a natural antidiabetic agent. Further research is recommended to isolate and characterize the bioactive compounds and validate their therapeutic efficacy through clinical trials. This study highlights the importance of H. sabdariffa in the development of functional foods and nutraceuticals for the management of diabetes and related metabolic disorders
Milagawanda et al. (Mon,) studied this question.