Antidiabetic, antimicrobial, and wound healing activities of Dioscorea bulbifera L. methanol extract and its fractions in alloxan-induced diabetic Wistar rats’ model

Dioscorea bulbifera L. has diverse applications in folkloric medicine. This study assessed its anti-diabetic, cytotoxic, and antimicrobial activities on diabetic wound pathogens using Wistar rats. Extraction was performed via maceration in 70 % methanol, yielding ethyl acetate (EAF) and ethanol (EF) fractions. Phytochemical screening identified bioactive compounds, and acute toxicity studies ensured safety. The antimicrobial efficacy of the crude methanol extract (CME) and fractions was tested against Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa using disc diffusion and colony count methods. Anti-diabetic potential was evaluated in alloxan-induced diabetic rats by measuring blood glucose levels. Rats were grouped (Normal, diabetic [untreated], positive [Glibenclamide 5 mg/kg], 200 mg/kg CME, EAF, EF), with extracts administered orally. A circular excision wound (0.2 cm) was induced, and wound contraction monitored. At the end of the experiment, skin, liver, and kidney were harvested for histopathological examination. Phytochemical analysis revealed saponins, tannins, flavonoids, alkaloids, phenols, and cardiac glycosides, with EAF particularly rich in these compounds. The LD50 was > 5000 mg/kg with no mortality. EAF exhibited the highest antimicrobial activity (p < 0.05) and colony count reduction (p < 0.01). It also significantly lowered blood glucose levels (p < 0.01) and enhanced wound healing, with greater re-epithelialization, granulation, and collagen deposition (p < 0.05). Histopathology showed normal organ architecture. Dioscorea bulbifera L. extract, particularly EAF demonstrated strong antimicrobial, anti-diabetic, and wound-healing properties with no toxicity. Its efficacy in reducing blood glucose, inhibiting pathogens, and promoting tissue regeneration highlights its therapeutic potential for diabetic wound management. Further studies should isolate active compounds and explore their mechanisms of action.