Investigation on in-vitro Antidiabetic and Hepatoprotective activity of the leaves of Bauhinia phoenicea Wight & Arn, Fabaceae

Abstract

Bauhinia phoenicea Wight & Arn. (Syn: Bauhinia benthamii Bedd.) belonging to the family: Fabaceae is an ornamental medicinal climbing shrub endemic to Western Ghats. The plant parts have been used traditionally for treating wounds, diabetes, skin allergies, fungal infections and worm disturbances. The Pharmacognostical and Preliminary phytochemical studies have been reported on the leaves. The plant contains steroids, terpenoids, phenols, tannins, saponins, alkaloids and flavonoids as phytoconstituents. No detailed reports are available on the hepatoprotective and antidiabetic activity of the leaves, hence attempt was undertaken to investigate the hepatoprotective and antidiabetic activity on the leaves of Bauhinia phoenicea by in-vitro methods like MTT assay and α-Amylase inhibition assay respectively. The study revealed that the leaf possess significant antidiabetic and hepatoprotective activities which justifies the therapeutic potential and traditional uses of the plant.