The Impact of Pumpkin Seed Extracts on the Histology of the Hypothalamus and Testosterone Level of Alloxan Induced Diabetic Male Rats

Objective: Epidemiologic studies and randomized clinical trials demonstrate that type 2 diabetes can be substantially avoided by making dietary and lifestyle changes rather than relying heavily on medications. This study evaluates the ameliorating effect(s) of Telfairia occidentalis seed administration on the histology of the Hypothalamus and testosterone level in normal and Alloxan-induced diabetes in Wistar rats.

Methods: Twenty male Wistar rats, weighing between 120-180 g, were divided into five groups of 4 rats each. Groups 1 and 2 representing Normal Control (NC) and Diabetic Control (DC) received only feed and water. Group 3 normal rats received 300 mg/kg Telfairia occidentalis seed extract; groups 4 and 5 received 50 mg/kg of Metformin and 300 mg/kg of Telfairia occidentalis seed extract respectively.

Results: The result revealed that the administration of Telfairia occidentalis seed extract moderately increased the body weight (16.76±1.75%) significantly at (P<0.05) when compared to normal control (14.06±2.93%) and diabetes significant decrease (-27.68±1.92%) body weight when compared to metformin-treated (-6.11±1.85%) and extract (-5.33±2.18%). The levels of FBG with the extract (60.70±4.88%) and metformin (61.24±6.19%) significantly decreased at (p<0.05) when compared to diabetic control (-64.78±12.51%).The FSH and LH level significantly increased at (p<0.05). Histological changes were also seen in animals of the treated groups.

Conclusion: It is evident that Telfairia occidentalis seed extract contains anti-hyperglycemic agents capable of lowering blood glucose levels.