EVALUATION OF ANTIDIABETIC PROPERTY OF KARCHIKAI (MOMORDICA CYMBALARIA) AN UNDERUTILIZED MEDICINAL CROP DISTRIBUTED IN NORTH KARNATAKA

Abstract

Background: Momordica cymbalaria, commonly known as Karchikai, is an underutilized wild vegetable with significant nutritional and pharmaceutical value, particularly in managing diabetes mellitus.

Objective: This study aims to elucidate the antidiabetic effects of Karchikai fruit powder using a streptozotocin-induced diabetic Wistar rat model.

Materials and methods: The investigation focused on the efficacy of Karchikai fruit powder sourced from distinct regions in Karnataka, India, i.e. Bagalkot, Vijayapur, Hungund and Raichur. After oven-drying and grinding, the resultant powder was orally administered at a dose of 400 mg/kg body weight to diabetic male Wistar rats per day (200-300 g) for 21 days. Body weight and some biochemical parameters like serum glucose, triglycerides and cholesterol were measured on day 0 (before) and day 7, 14 and 21 after the induction of diabetes.

Results: Treatment with Karchikai fruit powder caused a significant reduction in serum glucose and reduced weight loss in diabetic rats, with maximum antidiabetic activity shown by the Bagalkot sample. Additionally, Karchikai treatment reduced elevated levels of serum cholesterol and triglycerides in the diabetic group, thus strengthening its efficacy as an antidiabetic drug. Histopathological analysis revealed a substantial increase in beta cells of the pancreas among rats treated with Karchikai, indicating its possible role in insulin regeneration.

Conclusion: The fruit powder extracted from Karchikai has been seen to possess prominent antidiabetic properties and similarities to insulin, known as “m cym,” to determine why it can be an efficient source for controlling diabetes. Seed cultivation needs to improve as a solution for low germination rates.