Antidiabetic, Antioxidant, Antinociceptive, and Anti-Inflammatory Potential of Chemically Characterized Extract of Limeum Indicum Stocks ex T. Anderson (Aizoaceae). In Vitro, In Vivo, and In Silico Investigations

Abstract

Limeum indicum (LI), a plant from the Aizoaceae family, has garnered interest due to its potential health benefits. In this study, we explore the antidiabetic, antioxidant, antinociceptive, and anti-inflammatory properties of a chemically characterized whole extract from LI. In vitro assays included DPPH and reducing power tests to assess antioxidant activity. For in vivo investigations, adult Wistar rats were used. Alloxan-induced diabetic rats received oral doses of LI whole extract (ethanol (LI-EE), DCM (LI-DE), and n-Hexane (LI-HE)) or glimepiride for 21 days. Carrageenan-induced inflammation and nociceptive effects were also evaluated. Molecular docking studies aided in identifying potential targets for the extract's bioactivity. Phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of cardiac glycosides, flavonoids, phenolics, saponins, and fixed oils in the extract. Both DPPH and reducing power assays demonstrated substantial total phenolic and flavonoid content, indicative of strong antioxidant activity. The extracts dose-dependently reduced blood glucose levels in alloxan-induced diabetic rats and mitigated inflammation and nociception. Furthermore, the significant antidiabetic and anti-inflammatory activities of n-hexane extract, suggested to identify the potential components by employing molecular docking studies.