Abstract

THE EFFECTS OF POMEGRANATE FLOWERS (PUNICA GRANATUM) ON DIABETIC RATS' BLOOD SUGAR LEVELS

*Ye?im Kara

ABSTRACT

Diabetes can be treated and prevented using a variety of medicinal plants. In our research, the antioxidant effect of Pomegranate flowers (garnet) extract on blood sugar levels of diabetic rats was observed after they were given streptozotocin (STZ). Many medicinal plants are used for treatment and prevention of diabetes. In this study, healing antioxidant effect of Pomegranate flowers (garnet) extract was observed on blood sugar levels of streptozocin induced diabetic rats. The rats were separated into three groups as control group, diabetes induced rat group and diabetes induced rat group which were injected with pomegranate flower extract. Diabetes was generated through the intraperitoneal dose of 50 mg/kg STZ which is solved in the citrate tampon. Diabetices rats with high blood glucose levels over 250 mg/dL were observed in the study. Punica granatum flower extract was prepared by using solvent. Punica granatum flower extract showed an antioxidant effect on diabetes rats according to the injected doses. Our study showed that the materials in the content of pomegranate, regulate glucose metabolism and diabetic disorders. This reason is very important for controlling the blood sugar levels. In our day, alternative treatments are needed to control diabetes and reduce its complications.

Keywords: Punica granatum, STZ (streptozotocin), diabetes, blood sugar, plant extract.