Phytochemical Analysis, Acute Toxicity and Glycemic Regulation of the Aqueous Extract of Moringa oleifera Leaves in Normoglycemic and Hyperglycemic Rats

Moringa oleifera is generally considered to have numerous therapeutic properties in traditional Ivorian medicine. The objective of this study was to evaluate the acute toxicity and blood glucose regulation in rats of an aqueous extract of Moringa oleifera leaves. Phytochemical analysis of the aqueous extract of Moringa oleifera leaves was performed using the standard staining and precipitation method. The toxicity study was conducted in accordance with OECD 423, by administering a single dose of the extract at 5,000 mg/kg body weight. The antihyperglycemic and hypoglycemic activities of Moringa oleifera extract were evaluated by administering a single dose of 75 mg/kg μg, 150 mg/kg μg, 300 mg/kg μg, 600 mg/kg μg, and 1200 mg/kg μg of aqueous Moringa oleifera extract to normoglycemic and hyperglycemic animals. The effects of the different Moringa oleifera extracts on rats were monitored for 120 minutes. Blood glucose levels were measured at 0, 30, 60, 90, 120, and 180 minutes. Phytochemical analysis showed that the extract is rich in secondary compounds such as polyphenols, flavonoids, sterols, tannins, and saponins. Moringa oleifera extract is non-toxic, with an LD₅₀ greater than 5,000 mg/kg body weight. Aqueous Moringa oleifera extract administered to normoglycemic rats did not induce hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia. Aqueous Moringa oleifera extract significantly reduced anhydrous glucose-induced hyperglycemia in hyperglycemic rats, from 170 mg/dL to approximately 78 mg/dL. These results confirm the regulatory properties of Moringa oleifera on blood glucose levels in Wistar rats.