[Hypoglycemic effect of saponin from Tribulus terrestris].

OBJECTIVE: To study the hypoglycemic effect of saponin from Tribulus terrestris L.

METHOD: Alloxan was used to establish the diabetic model in mice. Phenformin Hydrochlride Tables was used as the positive control. The level of glucose, triglyceride, cholesterol and SOD in serum were determined.

RESULTS: The level of serum glucose could be significantly reduced by saponin from Tribulus terrestris, which was the rate of 26.25% and 40.67% in normal mice and diabetic mice in respectively. The level of serum triglyceride could be reduced 23.35%. The saporin could also decrease the content of serum cholesterol. Serum SOD activity of the mice was increased by the saponin.

CONCLUSION: Saponin from Tribulue terrestris could significantly reduce the level of serum glucose.