Vol. 2, Issue 12, Part E (2016)

Abstract
Objective: The present study was designed to evaluate effects of Lagerstroemia Speciosa leaves extract in streptozotocin induced diabetic neuropathy. Methods: Diabetes was induced in Wistar rats by injecting streptozotocin (60 mg/kg/intraperitoneally). Four week after the confirmation of diabetes, diabetic rats were treated with Lagerstroemia Speciosa Leaves (LS) extract (200 and 400 mg/kg, p.o) for next four weeks. Rats were subjected to evaluate biochemical, behavioural, and oxidative stress parameters. Hyperalgesia and cold allodynia test were performed on 7th, 14th, 21th and 28th day in all groups to assess the extent of neuropathy by Eddy’s hot plate and tail immersion test respectively. Further, the walking function test to assess motor response and histopathology of sciatic nerve were performed at the end of 4th week treatment. Results: Treatment with LS extract (200 and 400 mg/kg) significantly reduced elevated blood glucose level, and lipid profiles and restored the reduced body weight. Further, 4 week treatment of LS significantly attenuated hyperalgesia, cold allodynia. Walking function in diabetic treated rats were improved as compared to diabetic control rats. Elevated levels of malondialdehyde, and nitric oxide and decreased glutathione levels and superoxide dismutase were restored significantly after 4 week LS treatment. Consequently, LS extract (200 and 400 mg/kg) treated rats showed regeneration of neuronal fibres of sciatic nerve in dose dependent manner. Conclusion: Lagerstroemia Speciosa leaves extract has shown amelioration in diabetic neuropathic symptoms which may be attributed by its antihyperglycemic and antioxidant effect.