Pain
ANTIDIABETIC AND ANALGESIC STUDIES OF ETHANOLIC EXTRACT OF
GOLDEN SHOWER PLANT Cassia fistula Linn.INTRODUCTION
Introduction
1.1. Diabetes
1.1.1. Definition: Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a metabolic
syndrome with multiple etiology, is characterized by chronic
hyperglycemia together with disturbances in carbohydrate, protein
and fat metabolism results from a decrease in circulating
concentration of insulin (insulin deficiency), a decrease in the
response of peripheral tissues to insulin (insulin resistance) or
both. Hyperglycemia is an important factor in the development and
progression of long-term complications of DM affecting kidney,
retina, heart and nervous system (David, M.N. et al. 1997).1.1.2.
Type 1 Diabetes:Type 1 diabetes mellitus is characterized by loss
of the insulin-producing beta cells of the islets of Langerhans in
the pancreas leading to insulin deficiency. This type of diabetes
can be further classified as immune-mediated or idiopathic. The
majority of type1 diabetes is of the immune-mediated nature, where
beta cell loss is a T-cell mediated autoimmune attack. There is no
known preventive measure against type1 diabetes, which causes
approximately 10% of diabetes mellitus cases in North America and
Europe.(Rather KI April 2007)1.1.3. Type 2 diabetes:Type2 diabetes
mellitus is characterized by insulin resistance which may be
combined with relatively reduced insulin secretion. The defective
responsiveness of body tissues to insulin is believed to involve
the insulin receptor. However, the specific defects are not known.
Diabetes mellitus due to a known defect are classified separately.
Type2 diabetes is the most common type.1.1.4. Gestational
diabetes:
Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) resembles type2 diabetes in
several respects, involving a combination of relatively inadequate
insulin secretion and responsiveness. It occurs in about 2%5% of
all pregnancies and may improve or disappear after delivery.
Gestational diabetes is fully treatable but requires careful
medical supervision throughout the pregnancy. About 20%50% of
affected women develop type2 diabetes later in life (Robbins Basic
Pathology). 1.2. Signs and SymptomsPolyuria (frequent
urination)
Glucose concentration in blood is high
Reabsorbing of glucose in the proximal renal tubuli is
incomplete, glucose remains in urine
Osmotic pressure of urine increases (J. Goldman-Levine et al
2005). Inhibits reabsorbing of water by kidney, resulting in
increase urine production
Dehydration
Lost water volume in kidney replaced from water held in body,
increased thirst and increased fluid intake polydipsia (A. Barnett
2003)Polyphagia
Increased appetite, no glucose delivered to muscles, tissues,
body sends signal to brain to eat something to renourishWeight loss
and weakness
Glucose cannot participate in crib cycle to be used as energy,
use of fat as alternative energy source (T. Levien et al
2002).Vision changes
changes shapes of lens in eye
Figure 1: Hypoglycemic Symptoms (www.ihc.com/diabetes) Table 1:
Difference between Type 1 & Type 2 Diabetes
Comparison of type 1 and 2 diabetes
FeatureType 1 diabetesType 2 diabetes
OnsetSuddenGradual
Age at onsetAny age
(mostly young)Mostly in adults
Body habituesThin or normalOften obese
KetoacidosisCommonRare
AutoantibodiesUsually presentAbsent
Endogenous insulinLow or absentNormal, decreased, increased
Concordancein identical twins50%90%
1.3. Prevalence of Diabetes
DM is a multi-factorial disease that has a significant impact on
the health, quality of life and life expectancy of patients as well
as on the health care system. DM is the commonest clinical disorder
affecting nearly 10% of the population all over the world [3]. At
present, there are an estimated 246 million people with diabetes in
the world, of whom about 80% reside in developing countries
(Adapted from the Report of the American Diabetes Association, ADA
2002) According to World Health Organization (WHO), the diabetic
population is likely to increase by 35% by the year 2025. DM occurs
at any stage of life from infancy to old age and the occurrence of
type-I diabetes is about 10%, whereas type-II diabetes accounts for
around 90% of diabetes cases. The prevalence of DM is increasing
rapidly in developing countries than in the developed nations.
India and China will be the leading countries in their annual
incidence rates for diabetes mellitus by the year 2025 due to their
high population [4]. In Bangladesh, the situation is the most
vulnerable and it has been estimated that the number of diabetes
will rise from 3.2 million in 2000 to 11.7 Million by the year
2030. Diabetes is the fourth leading cause of death in developed
countries. In 2005, WHO reported that around 1.1 million people
were died of diabetic complicacy, among which 80% from developing
countries and it has also been suggested that the death rate will
increase up to 50% (Rajshahi Diabetic Association, 2005). So, the
diabetes is a global disease with a huge adverse impact on health
and mortality.
Table 2: Number of People with diabetes between 20 to 79
years
(International Diabetes Federation)Country/Territory2010
(millions)
1. India50.8
2. China43.2
3. U.S.A26.8
4. Russia9.6
5.Brazil7.6
6. Germany7.5
7. Pakistan7.1
8. Japan7.1
9. Indonesia7.0
10. Mexico6.8
1.4. Pathphysiology of Diabetic Vascular Disease The metabolic
abnormalities that characterize diabetes particularly
hyperglycemia, free fatty acids, and insulin resistance, provoke
molecular mechanisms that alter the function and structure of blood
vessels. These include increased oxidative stress, disturbances of
intracellular signal transduction (such as activation of PKC), and
activation of RAGE. Consequently, there is decreased availability
of NO, increased production of endothelin (ET-1), activation of
transcription factors such as NF-B and AP-1, and increased
production of prothrombotic factors such as tissue factor (TF) and
plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1).(Collins T et al
2001).
Figure 2: The metabolic abnormalities that characterize
diabetes. (King GL. 1996)
1.4.1. Diabetes, Thrombosis and Coagulation
Platelet function and plasma coagulation factors are altered in
diabetes, favoring platelet aggregation and a propensity for
thrombosis. There is increased expression of glycoprotein Ib and
IIb/IIIa, augmenting both plateletvon Willebrand (vWF) factor and
plateletfibrin interaction. (Li Y et al 2001)The bioavailability of
NO is decreased. Coagulation factors, such as tissue factor, factor
VII, and thrombin, are increased; plasminogen activator inhibitor
(PAI-1) is increased; and endogenous anticoagulants such as
thrombomodulin are decreased (Ceriello A et al. 1995).
Figure 3: Alteration of platelet function and coagulation
factors in diabetes. (Vinik AI et al 2001)
Figure 4: Long-term Complications of Diabetes Mellitus (American
Diabetes Associationwww.diabetes.org)
1.5. Management 1.5.1. Diabetes managementDiabetes mellitus is a
chronic disease which is difficult to cure. Management concentrates
on keeping blood sugar levels as close to normal ("euglycemia") as
possible without presenting undue patient danger. This can usually
be with close dietary management, exercise, and use of appropriate
medications (insulin only in the case of type 1 diabetes mellitus.
Oral medications may be used in the case of type 2 diabetes, as
well as insulin).Patient education, understanding, and
participation is vital since the complications of diabetes are far
less common and less severe in people who have well-managed blood
sugar levels. Wider health problems may accelerate the deleterious
effects of diabetes. These include smoking, elevated cholesterol
levels, obesity, high blood pressure, and lack of regular exercise.
(Nathan DM et al 2005)1.5.2. Management of Diabetes with
Alternative Medicines
Medicinal plants are the most exclusive source of life saving
drugs for the majority of the worlds population. Virtually, the use
of traditional medicine is the mainstay of primary healthcare in
all developing countries. A number of indigenous medicinal plants
have been found to be useful to manage diabetes. In the last few
years there has been an exponential growth in the field of herbal
medicine, and these drugs are gaining popularity both in developing
and developed countries because of their natural origin and less
side effects.(Scartezzini, P. et al. 2000)Medicinal plants are the
most exclusive source of life saving drugs for the majority of the
worlds population. In developing countries 80% population are using
traditional medicine in primary medical problems. However, lots of
herbs are now being used in the management of DM. Bangladesh is
endowed with the wealth of medicinally important plants and has
ancient herbal treatment methods where traditional alternative
medicines are popularly practiced among the large segment of its
population. With growing interest worldwide in medicinal plant as a
source of medicine, there is need to introduce new important plants
of established therapeutic values used either in modern or
traditional system of medicine. In the past decade, research has
been focused on scientific evaluation of traditional drugs of plant
origin and screening of more effective and safe hypoglycemic agents
has continued to be an important area.
WHO also recommended and encouraged this practice, especially in
countries where access to the conventional treatment of diabetes is
not adequate. With growing interest worldwide in medicinal plant as
a source of medicine, there is need to introduce new important
plants of established therapeutic values used either in modern or
traditional system of medicine. In recent years, there has been a
renewed interest to screen such plant materials, especially to
examine the long-term beneficial effects of plant materials, to
identify the active principle and to understand the mechanism of
action, which is at present unclear.
The following table compares some common anti-diabetic agents,
generalizing classes although there may be substantial variation in
individual drugs of each class: Table 3: Anti Diabetic agents
(Richard D. Howland et al 2006)AgentMechanismSite of actionMain
advantagesMain side effects
SulfonylureasStimulating insulin production by inhibiting the
KATP channelPancreatic beta cellseffective
InexpensiveHypoglycemiaWeight gain
MetforminDecreases insulin resistanceLiverWeight loss
Does not cause hypoglycemiaGI symptoms, including diarrhea,
nausea, abdominal pain
Lactic acidosisMetallic taste
AcarboseReduces intestinal glucose absorptionGI tractLow riskGI
symptoms, including diarrhea, abdominal cramping, flatulence
ThiazolidinedionesReduce insulin resistance by activating
PPAR-Fat, muscleHepatoxicity
1.6. Diabetic nerve pain is a growing problem
Diabetes can destroy small blood vessels, which in turn can
damage the nervous system, and these damaged nerves can cause pain.
When a person has pain that is caused by nerve damage from
diabetes, it is called Diabetic Nerve Pain. About 8% of Americans
have diabetes. Unfortunately, this number is only growing. As would
be expected, the number of people suffering from Diabetic Nerve
Pain has also increased. The American Diabetes Association reports
that about 50% of people with diabetes have some form of nerve
damage known as diabetic neuropathy. Diabetic Nerve Pain is a
common diabetes complication, as are kidney and eye (retinopathy)
conditions.
The most common type of diabetic neuropathy is peripheral
neuropathy (burning, throbbing, or painful tingling in your hands
or feet). In the early stages of peripheral neuropathy, some people
have no signs. Some may have numbness or tingling in the feet.
Because nerve damage can occur over several years, these cases may
go unnoticed. The patient may only become aware of neuropathy if
the nerve damage gets worse and becomes painful.
Diabetic nerve damage to the feet, sometimes called diabetic
neuropathy, or more correctly, diabetic distal symmetric sensory
polyneuropathy, frequently causes people with diabetes to lose
sensation in their feet, which is usually describe as "numbness."
Diabetes leg pain, as well as the problem in the foot is not felt
until some damage may have been done. Neuropathy is a complication
of this disease after years of uncontrolled high blood sugar. This
lowers the sensitivity to pain thus posing a danger that damage
could happen without feeling a warning.
When the diabetic loses a lot of this throbbing sensation, he
has not really lost the feeling completely but rather the sensation
is at a different level so that by the time the real sensation
becomes uncomfortable, the damage may have already occurred.
The poor circulation to the lower extremities caused by the
complication of this disease leads to chronic skin ulcers, numbness
and burning of the lower legs and feet. These along with the
diabetes leg pain can be painful. When left untreated, this could
result in gangrene that may require amputation.
The feeling of the diabetes leg pain may be in the form of
cramps while walking, predominantly in the area of the calf muscle.
This may be the sign of the circulatory problem. The other signals
are redness of the feet and darkening of the skin when the legs are
in a dependent situation.
Nerve pain is different from other types of pain, like pain from
a muscle ache or sprained ankle. Common pain medicines like aspirin
may not work for nerve pain. However, there is a prescription
treatment option. This treatment is clinically proven to provide
effective relief from the burning, throbbing, or painful tingling
of Diabetic Nerve Pain. However, diabetic neuropathy occasionally
creates a severe burning pain, or other very unpleasant sensations,
that are extremely frustrating.
1.7. Alloxan
1.7.1. Definition
Alloxan (2,4,5,6-tetraoxypyrimidine; 2,4,5,6-pyrimidinetetrone)
is an oxygenated pyrimidine derivative. It is present as alloxan
hydrate in aqueous solution. ( Merck Index, 11th Edition, 281).
Figure 5: Alloxan
1.7.2. History
Alloxan was originally isolated in 1818 by Brugnatelli and was
named in 1838 by Whler and Liebig. The name "Alloxan" emerged from
an amalgamation of the words "Allantoin" and "Oxalsure" (oxalic
acid).
1.7.3. Biological effectsAlloxan is a toxic glucose analogue,
which selectively destroys insulin-producing cells in the pancreas
(that is beta cells) when administered to rodents and many other
animal species. This causes an insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus
(called "Alloxan Diabetes") in these animals, with characteristics
similar to type 1 diabetes in humans. Alloxan is selectively toxic
to insulin-producing pancreatic beta cells because it
preferentially accumulates in beta cells through uptake via the
GLUT2 glucose transporter.( Lenzen, S 2008) Alloxan, in the
presence of intracellular thiols, generates reactive oxygen species
(ROS) in a cyclic reaction with its reduction product, dialuric
acid. The beta cell toxic action of alloxan is initiated by free
radicals formed in this redox reaction. One study suggests that
alloxan does not cause diabetes in humans. Others found a
significant difference in alloxan plasma levels in children with
and without diabetes Type 1. (A. Mrozikiewicz at 1994).1.7.4.
Impact upon beta cellsBecause it selectively kills the
insulin-producing beta-cells found in the pancreas, alloxan is used
to induce diabetes in laboratory animals. This occurs most likely
because of selective uptake of the compound due to its structural
similarity to glucose as well as the beta-cell's highly efficient
uptake mechanism (GLUT2). (Tyrberg B et al 2001).However, alloxan
is not toxic to the human beta-cell, even in very high doses,
probably due to differing glucose uptake mechanisms in humans and
rodents. Alloxan is, however, toxic to the liver and the kidneys in
high doses.( Eizirik D et al 1994)1.8. Pain1.8.1. Definition: An
unpleasant sensory and emotional experience associated with actual
or potential tissue damage, or described in terms of such
damage.Pain motivates us to withdraw from potentially damaging
situations, protect a damaged body part while it heals, and avoid
those situations in the future. Most pain resolves promptly once
the painful stimulus is removed and the body has healed, but
sometimes pain persists despite removal of the stimulus and
apparent healing of the body and sometimes pain arises in the
absence of any detectable stimulus, damage or disease.
("International Association for the Study of Pain. Pain
Definitions". Retrieved 12 October 2010.) 1.8.2. Clinical Terms For
The Sensory Disturbances Associated With Pain :( Mike Halos WRHA
Palliative Care) Dysesthesia An unpleasant abnormal sensation,
whether spontaneous or evoked.
Allodynia Pain due to a stimulus which does not normally provoke
pain, such as pain caused by light touch to the skin
Hyperalgesia An increased response to a stimulus which is
normally painful
Hyperesthesia - Increased sensitivity to stimulation, excluding
the special senses. Hyperesthesia includes both allodynia and
hyperalgesia, but the more specific terms should be used wherever
they are applicable. (von Baeyer CL; Pain Research and Management
11(3) 2006; p.157-162).
Figure 6: Mechanism of pain (Hinz, B et al)1.10. Causes and
Symptoms: Causes
Acute pain can usually be linked directly to the noxious
influence or injury that caused the pain, like the pain you feel
after burning your skin or following a surgical intervention.
(Keay, KA et al 2000)For chronic pain the connection is far more
difficult to establish as the original cause of pain might not
exist any longer and the nerves may have become oversensitive and
react already to the slightest stimulus, which would not cause any
pain in otherwise healthy subjects.
Sometimes intensive, multi-disciplinary examination may be
needed to reveal the underlying cause.(Coda, BA et al 2001).1.10.1.
Frequent causes of pain:
CancerMusculoskeletal pain Osteoarthritis Rheumatoid arthritis
Low back pain Failed back surgery Fractures & osteoporosisNerve
pains due to Diabetic neuropathy Peripheral blood vessel disorders
and stroke Herpetic infection TraumaSomatic pain:
Originates from bones, muscles, tendons or blood vessels and is
often known asmusculo-skeletal pain Usually sharp, well-localized
Can be reproduced by touching or moving the involved area Usually
of longer durationCoetaneous pain
Is due to injury of the skin or the superficial tissues
Usually well-described, localized pain of short durationVisceral
pain
Originates from the internal organs of the bodys cavities such
as thorax (heart and lungs), abdomen (liver, kidneys, spleen and
bowels) and pelvis (ovaries, bladder and womb)
More aching, vague and often difficult to localize Of longer
duration
Sometimes colicky or crampingPeripheral neuropathy
Means that the peripheral nerves are not working properly
Is usually the result of an injury to or a disease process, such
as diabetes associated with loss of function in the nerve Often
starts in the hand and feet and often affects the body
symmetricallyEntrapment of a nerve
A pinched or trapped nerve due to compression in the spine or
elsewhere in the body, such as elbow, shoulder, wrist or
footPhantom limb pain
Sensation of pain from a limb that has been lost or from which
no longer physical signals are being received
Reported after amputation or in quadriplegicsChronic central
neuropathic pain
Can follow traumatic spinal cord injury or diseases of the brain
itself, like stroke.Other causes
Other causes with ensuing damage of the nervous tissue include
post-herpes infection.
1.10.2. Symptoms
Symptoms vary depending on the site of pain and are treated
medically. However, there are common symptoms associated with pain
disorder regardless of the site. (Brand, P 1997) negative or
distorted cognition, such as feeling helpless or hopeless with
respect to pain and its management
inactivity, passivity, and/or disability
increased pain requiring clinical intervention (Cox JJ et al
2006). insomnia and fatigue
disrupted social relationships at home, work, or school
depression and/or anxiety
1.11. Pain management
Pain management (also called pain medicine; algiatry) is a
branch of medicine employing an interdisciplinary approach for
easing the suffering and improving the quality of life of those
living with pain. The typical pain management team includes medical
practitioners, clinical psychologists, physiotherapists, (Hardy,
Paul A. J. 1997) occupational therapists, and nurse
practitioners.Pain sometimes resolves promptly once the underlying
trauma or pathology has healed, and is treated by one practitioner,
with drugs such as analgesics and (occasionally) anxiolytics.
Effective management of long term pain, however, frequently
requires the coordinated efforts of the management team. (Main,
Chris J. et al 2000)Medicine treats injury and pathology to support
and speed healing; and treats distressing symptoms such as pain to
relieve suffering during treatment and healing. When a painful
injury or pathology is resistant to treatment and persists, when
pain persists after the injury or pathology has healed, and when
medical science cannot identify the cause of pain, the task of
medicine is to relieve suffering. Treatment approaches to long term
pain include pharmacologic measures, such as analgesics, tricyclic
antidepressants and anticonvulsants, interventional procedures,
physical therapy, physical exercise, application of ice and/or
heat, and psychological measures, such as biofeedback and cognitive
behavioral therapy. (Hienhaus, Ole; Cole, B. Eliot 2002).An
analgesic (also known as a painkiller) is any member of the group
of drugs used to relieve pain (achieve analgesia). Analgesic drugs
act in various ways on the peripheral and central nervous systems;
they include paracetamol (para-acetylaminophenol, also known in the
US as acetaminophen), the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
(NSAIDs) such as the salicylates, and opioid drugs such as morphine
and opium. They are distinct from anesthetics, which reversibly
eliminate sensation.( Dworkin RH et al 2003). Diclofenac is a
non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) taken to reduce
inflammation and as an analgesic in certain conditions.
Figure 7: DiclofenacThe exact mechanism of action is not
entirely known, but it is thought that the primary mechanism
responsible for its anti-inflammatory, antipyretic, and analgesic
action is inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis by inhibition of
cyclooxygenase (COX). It also appears to exhibit bacteriostatic
activity by inhibiting bacterial DNA synthesis.(Dutta NK et al
2000).Inhibition of COX also decreases prostaglandins in the
epithelium of the stomach, making it more sensitive to corrosion by
gastric acid.This is also the main side effect of diclofenac.
Diclofenac has a low to moderate preference to block the
COX2-isoenzyme (approximately 10-fold) and is said to have
therefore a somewhat lower incidence of gastrointestinal complaints
than noted with indomethacin and aspirin. (Fowler PD et al
1983).Diclofenac is approved in the states for the long term
symptomatic treatment of rheumatoid arthritis osteoarthritis and
alkylosing spondylitis. Three formations are available; an
intermediate release potassium salt delage for those medications is
to 100-200mg, given in several divided doses. (Mazumdar K et al
2006). Diclofenac also is useful for short term treatment of acute
musculoskeletal pain, postoperative pain, and dysmenorrheal.
Diclofenac is also available in combination with misprotostol, a
PGE analog. This retains the efficacy of Diclofenac while reducing
the frequency of gastrointestinal ulcers and added misprostol.
(Dutta NK et al 2006).But it is not effective for the treatment of
diabetic neuropathic pain. For this reason, it is necessary to
findings of natural and safe plant medicine for the treatment of
diabetic neuropathic complication.Plant preview
2. Plant preview
2.1. Cassia fistula
2.1.1. Botanical features
Cassia fistula also called Golden Shower Tree is a flowering
plant in the family Fabaceae, native to southern Asia, from
southern Pakistan east through India to Myanmar and south to Sri
Lanka. It is the national tree of Thailand and its flower is
Thailand's national flower. (Karanth KS. et al September 2006).
2.1.2. Botanical name/ Scientific name: Cassia fistula
Linnaeus2.1.3. Common name or Local name:
Common name: Bengali: Sonali, Bandarlati, Amaltas, Golden shower
tree, Indian Laburnum Hindi: Amaltas Manipuri: Chahui Tamil: Konrai
Malayalam: Vishu konnai Marathi: Bahava Mizo: Ngaingaw , Urdu:
Amaltas (MMPND2005).
2.2. Taxonomic Classification
Kingdom : Plantae
Division : Magnoliophyta
Class : Magnoliopsida
Subclass : Rosidae
(unranked) : Eurosids I
Order : Fabales
Family : Fabaceae
Subfamily: Caesalpinioideae
Tribe : Cassieae
Subtribe : Cassiinae
Genus : Cassia
Species : C. fistula
2.3. Various Parts of Cassia fistula:
Leaves & Flower Stem Bark
Fruit
Flowers Part of Plant
Figure 8: Images of various parts of Cassia fistula2.4.
Biogeographically distribution of Cassia fistula(
other Web sites." \t "_blank"
HYPERLINK "http://www.rain-tree.com/canafistula.htm" \o "PLANTS
is not
responsible for the content or availability of other Web sites."
\t "_blank" Tropical Plant Database /
is not responsible for the content or availability of other Web
sites." \t "_blank" www.ildis.org)
Figure 9: Biogeographically distribution of Cassia fistula in
Bangladesh2.5. Description (Allen O.N. et al 1981)Deciduous tree 10
m tall, the bole to 5 m, to 1 m DBH. Leaves alternate, pinnate,
30-40 cm long, with 4-8 pairs of ovate leaflets, 7.5-15 cm long,
2-5 cm broad, entire, the petiolules 2-6 mm long. Flowers yellow,
in long drooping terminal clusters (racemes); petals 5, yellow;
sepals 5, green, the individual flower stalks 3-6 cm long. Stamens
10, three with longer stalks. Fruits pendulous, cylindrical, brown,
septate, 25-50 cm long, 1.5-3 cm in diameter, with 25-100 seeds.
Seeds lenticular, light brown, lustrous. Leaves: Alternate,
petiolate, Leaflets ovate. The leaves are deciduous, or
semi-evergreen. 15-60 cm long, pinnate with 3-8 pairs of leaflets.
Each leaflet 7-21 cm long and 4-9 cm broad.
Flowers: Bracteates, Ebeacteate, zygomorphic, Bisexual &
Hypogenous. The flowers are produced in pendulous racemes. 20-40 cm
long, each flower 4-7 cm diameter with five yellow petals of equal
size and shape.
Contin.. Calyx - Sepals 5, Polysepalous, yellowish green in
colour. Corolla - Petals 5, Polypetalous, petal smallest.
Androecium - Stamens 10, arranged in two whorls of 5 each, Anthers
dorsifixed. Gynoecium - Ovary superior, monocarpellary,
Unilocular.
Fruit & seed: A legume, cylindrical in shape and divided
into segments. Seed - Large, circular in shape. The seeds are
poisonous.
2.6. Traditional Medicinal Uses In Ayurvedic medicine, Golden
Shower Tree is known as "disease killer". Its fruitpulp is used as
mild laxative. as well as cardiac conditions and stomach problems
such as acid reflux. flowers used for fever, root as a diuretic.
The bark and leaves are used for skin diseases.
In Ayurvedic medicine systems, the seeds are recognized as
antibilious, aperitif, carminative, and laxative while the root is
used for curing adenopathy, burning sensations, leprosy, skin
diseases, syphilis, and andtubercularglands.The bark has been
employed in tanning, often in conjunction with avaram. The drug
"cassia fistula", a mild laxative, is obtained from the sweetish
pulp around the seed.
The leaves of the tree is used for erysipelas, malaria,
rheumatism, and ulcers, the buds are used for biliousness,
constipation, fever, leprosy, and skin disease and the fruit for
abdominal pain, constipation, fever, heart disease, and leprosy.
Thus every part of this plant is recognized for its medicinal
properties (Sharma, 1979).
There are many Cassia species worldwide which are used in herbal
medicine systems. This particular family of plants is used widely
for their laxative actions. Canafistula is no exception... it is
often used as a highly effective moderate laxative that is safe
even for children. However, in large doses, the leaves and bark can
cause vomiting, nausea, abdominal pain and cramps. Canafistula is
also employed as a remedy for tumors of the abdomen, glands, liver,
stomach, and throat, for burns, cancer, constipation, convulsions,
delirium, diarrhea, dysuria, epilepsy, gravel, hematuria, pimples,
and glandular tumors. In Ayurvedic medicine systems, the seeds are
attributed with antibilious, aperitif, carminative, and laxative
properties while the the root is used for adenopathy, burning
sensations, leprosy, skin diseases, syphilis, and tubercular
glands. The leaves are employed there for erysipelas, malaria,
rheumatism, and ulcers. In Brazilian herbal medicine, the seeds are
used as a laxative and the leaves and/or bark is used for pain and
inflammation. Table 4: WORLDWIDE ETHNOMEDICAL USES (Tropical Plant
database).WORLDWIDE ETHNOMEDICAL USES
Brazilas a laxative, analgesic, anti-inflammatory
DominicanRepublicas a laxative, vermifuge
Indiafor burns, cancer, convulsion, delirium, diarrhea, dysuria,
epilepsy, gravel, hematuria, pimples, syphilis
Javafor carbuncles, dermatosis, herpes, wounds; as a purgative,
laxative
Mexicoas a laxative
Panamafor diabetes
Peruas an astringent, laxative, purgative
Venezuelaas an astringent, laxative, purgative
Elsewherefor constipation, flu, fumitory, tumors; as an
aperients, laxative, purgative
2.7. Chemical Literature Review of Plant
Table 5 : Chemical compounds isolated from Cassia fistula
Linn.Plant partsChemical ConstituentsReferences
HeartwoodFistucacidin (3,4,7,8,4-
PentahydroxyflavanPadmanabha Rao, 1965
BarkOxyanthraquinone,
DihydroxyanthraquinoneRani et al., 1998
Leaves(-) epiafzelechin, (-) epiafzelechin-3-Oglucoside,
(-) epicatechin, procyanidin
B2, biflavonoids, triflavonoids, rhein,
rhein glucosidal, sennoside A,
sennoside B, chrysophanol, physcionKashiwada et al., 1996; Kaji
et al.,
1968; Kashiwada et al., 1996;
Mahesh et al., 1984.
Flowerstetramer (with free glycol unit), rhein,
fistulin, alkaloids, triterpenesNarayanan and Seshadri,
1972;
Kumar et al., 1966; Guri-Fakim et al.,
Fruit pulpRheine, volatile oil, waxy and resinous
DerivativesLiptak and Szentagali, 1937
PodsFistulic acid, 3-formyl-1-hydroxy-8-methoxy anthaquinone,
3B-hydroxy-17-norpimar-8(9)-en-15-oneMisra et al., 1997
SeedsChrysophanolKhana and Chandra, 1984
Reproductive organs: flower bud,
flower, podProanthocyanidins, flavonoidsLuximon-Ramma et al.,
2002
Vegetative organs: young Rhamnetin-3-O-gentiobiosideVaishnav and
Gupta, 1996
2.8. Biological Literature Review of Cassia fistula
Linn.Experimental studies demonstrated that the cassia fistula have
the following pharmacological properties (Table 6). Table 6:
Reported biological activities of Cassia fistula Linn.
Plant partsPharmacological activitiesReferences
BarkHepatoprotective Activity,cardioprotective
activity,Anti-inflammatory and Anti-oxidant activity, Ant diabetic
Activity,Anti-bacterial activityG. Parthasarathy et al. 2009,Khatib
N.A. et al .2010 Raju Ilavarasan et al. 2005, T. Ranjith Vimalraj
et al 2009,S.N. Malpani et al 2010
FruitsImmunomodulatory,Toxicity potential,Nafisa Hasan Ali et
al. 2008, M. A. Akanamu2004.
Fruit pulpAntioxidant activityBhatnagar M et al.2010
PodAnalgesicN.W. Sheikh et al. 2010
PURPOSE OF RESEARCH
3. Purpose of Research
3.1. Background of the study
Diabetes mellitus is a chronic disease characterized by high
blood glucose levels due to absolute or relative deficiency of
circulating insulin levels (Holmann R.R et al). Diabetes can be
divided into two main groups based on their requirements of
insulin: insulin dependent diabetes mellitus (IDDM or Type 1), and
non-insulin dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM or Type 2). However,
other types of diabetes have also been identified. Maturity Onset
Diabetes of the Young (MODY) is now classified as Type 3 and
gestational diabetes classified as Type 4. NIDDM accounts for about
90 percent of diabetic cases (World Health Organization 2002),
manifested by insulin resistance and -Cell dysfunction are the
metabolic abnormalities in the type 2 diabetes. Glycemic control is
one of the targets for managing diabetes mellitus. Several studies
have confirmed that effective control of blood glucose levels in
type 2 diabetes substantially decrease the risk of developing
diabetic complications. (Tanko Y., et al., 2008)Most commonly
employed oral hypoglycemic agents are sulfonylureas and biguanides.
These drugs however have disadvantages such as primary and
secondary failure of efficacy as well as the potential for
induction of severe hypoglycemia. The toxicity of oral ant diabetic
agents differs widely in clinical manifestations, severity, and
treatment. Despite the introduction of hypoglycemic agents from
natural and synthetic sources, diabetes and its secondary
complications continue to be a major medical problem in the world
population. There is a need, therefore for new compounds that may
effectively reduce insulin resistance or potentiate insulin action
in genetically diabetic or obese individuals. The search for such
drugs with a potential to reduce long-term complications of
diabetes is, therefore of current interest. According to the WHO,
more than 70% of the worlds population must use traditional
medicine to satisfy their principal health needs. A great number of
medicinal plants used in the control of diabetes mellitus have been
reported (Bailey C. J.1989). There are various medicinal plants in
the world, which are the potentials sources of the drugs. The
discovery of the widely used hypoglycemic drug, metformin came from
the traditional approach through the use of Cassia fistula. (J. K.
Grover et al. 2002)
Medicinal plants are the most exclusive source of life saving
drugs for the majority of the worlds population. In developing
countries 80% population are using traditional medicine in primary
medical problems (Grover J.K. 2002), however, lots of herbs are now
being used in the management of DM. Bangladesh is endowed with the
wealth of medicinally important plants and has ancient herbal
treatment methods where traditional alternative medicines are
popularly practiced among the large segment of its population. With
growing interest worldwide in medicinal plant as a source of
medicine, there is need to introduce new important plants of
established therapeutic values used either in modern or traditional
system of medicine. In the past decade, research has been focused
on scientific evaluation of traditional drugs of plant origin and
screening of more effective and safe hypoglycemic agents has
continued to be an important area.
Table 7: Some Bangladeshi medicinal plants subjected to clinical
trials
NoName of PlantClinical TrialResultsReference
1.Allium cepa
(I) Juice (100g), orally20 diabetic patients and 20 normal
healthy controlsReduction of blood sugar in diabetics No alteration
in blood sugar in controls144
(ii) Aqueous extract
(25-50gm)20 healthy volunteers (Fasting and adrenaline induced
hyperglycemia)No effect on fasting blood sugar but reduced the rise
in blood sugar on glucose loading 145
2.Clerodendron phlomoides (Alcoholic extract)33 diabetic
patients and 10normal volunteers Reduction in fasting blood
sugar146
3.Cinnamomum tamale
(leaves powder 3 teaspoons 4 times for 15 days)5 diabetic
patientsReduction on blood glucose147
4.Coccinia indica
(powder 3gm twice daily) 41 diabetic patientsReduction in blood
sugar148
5.Ficus bengallensis
(aqueous extract of bark)12 normal volunteers, 6 diabetic
patients and 6 controls patientsNo effect in normal human, mild
activity in diabetic patients149
6.Momordica charantia
(fruits powder 100gm daily for 2 weeks)Normal controls 25
patients of diabetes mellitusNo significant effect in either
cases150
According to the ethnobotanical surveys more than 800 plants are
used worldwide in traditional medicine to treat diabetes (Ajgaonkar
SS. Et al.1993). The hypoglycemic activity of many these plants has
been confirmed in hundreds of studies in experimental animals and
several studies in diabetic patients. Bangladesh is a country with
rich plant resources and an ancient history of traditional
medicines. Cassia fistula also known as sonali in Bengali, Golden
shower tree in English. Simple phenolic compounds, tannins,
quinones and derivatives occur in the overlapping cortical root
cells. It is assumed that these cell layers present a
physicochemical barrier because of their role in thwarting nematode
gall formation (Allen and Allen, 1981). Agriculture Handbook #165
reports the tosspot, Phyllachora canafistulae, in Maryland, near
its northern limit. The plant possesses antidiabetic, antioxidant,
analgesic, flavonoid, modulation of humoral immunity, toxicity
potentials, cardio protective, Anti-fungal, laxative, Purgative,
demulcent, anti-bacterial, HPMC,
phytochemicalconstituents(fistucacidin(3,4,7,8,4-flavanheartwoodadmanabha
ao, 1965oxyanthraquinone,dihydroxyanthraquinonebark (rani et al.,
1998), (-) epiafzelechin, (-) epiafzelechin-3-oglucoside,(-)
epicatechin, procyanidin b2, biflavonoids, triflavonoids,
rhein,rhein glucoside, sennoside a,sennoside b, chrysophanol,
physcion,leaves (kashiwada et al., 1996); (kaji et al.,1968);
(ashiwada et al., 1996;mahesh et al., 1984).kaempferol,
leucopelargonidin tetramer (with free glycol unit), rhein,fistulin,
alkaloids, triterpenesflowers narayanan and seshadri, , volatile
oil, waxy and resinous derivatives fruit pulp (liptak and
szentagali, 1937) fistulic acid, 3-formyl-1-hydroxy-8-methoxy
anthaquinone, 3b-hydroxy-17-norpimar-8(9)-en-15-onepods (misra et
al., 1997)chrysophanol seeds khana and chandra,
1984rhamnetin-3-o-gentiobioside roots (gupta,
1996)proanthocyanidins, flavonoids). (Abu Sayeed et al 1999)3.2.
Aims and Objectives
This research work was undertaken to evaluate the ant diabetic
and analgesic effects of ethanolic extract of the stem barks of
plant Cassia fistula in normal and alloxan-induced diabetic mice.
The most widely used experimental procedures were followed: To
examine the effect of plant extract on blood glucose level both in
normal and alloxan-induced diabetic mice. To evaluate the
hypoglycemic effect of the plant extract on glucose induced
hyperglycemic mice. To determine the analgesic activity of plant
extract for its central and peripheral pharmacological action using
acetic acid induced writhing test in mice. Finally, find out the
possible mechanism action of the plant extract for their beneficial
effect both in normal and alloxan-induced diabetic mice.Materials
and method
4. Materials and method4.1. Plant Materials
Fresh stem barks of the plant Cassia fistula Linn. Was collected
from Sirajgonj district during the month of March-April in 2011 and
the plant authenticity were confirmed from the Bangladesh National
Herbarium, Dhaka. 4.2. Preparation of Plant Extracts
The stem barks collected were washed and sun dried under shadow
for several days. The dried stem barks were powdered in an
electrical grinder after overnight drying in an oven below 50(C.
The powdered plant barks were extracted with 96% ethanol at room
temperature. The bottle were kept at room temperature and allowed
to stand for several 7-10 days with occasional shaking and
stirring. The extracts thus obtained were filtered through cotton
and then through filter paper (Whatman Fitter Paper No. 1). The
filtrate was defatted with petroleum ether for several times. Then,
the defatted liquor was allowed to evaporate using rotary
evaporator at temperature 40-45C. Finally, a highly concentrated
ethanol extract were obtained and kept in desiccators to dry to
give a solid mass (Yield 15g of extract from 800 g of plant powder
material).
4.3. Drugs and Chemicals
The standard drug, Metformin hydrochloride was the generous gift
samples from Pacific Pharmaceuticals Ltd. Alloxan monohydrate was
purchased from Sisco Research Laboratories Pvt. Ltd., Mumbai,
India. Blood samples analyzed for blood glucose content by using
BioLand G-423 glucose test meter (BioLand, Germany). All chemicals
and solvents were of reagent grade.
4.4. Experimental Animals
Six weeks Swiss albino mice (20-30g) of either sex were
purchased from ICDDRB, Dhaka, Bangladesh and were housed in animals
cages under standard environmental conditions (22-25C, humidity
60-70%, 12 h light: 12 h dark cycle). The mice were fed with
standard pellet diet obtained from ICDDRB, Dhaka and water ad
libitum. The animals used in this study were cared in accordance
with the guidelines on animal experimentation of our institute.
4.5. Induction of Diabetes
After fasting 16h, diabetes was induced into mice by in
intra-peritoneal injection (i. p.) of alloxan monohydrate (100
mg/kg), dissolved in saline (100 (l/mice, ip.). After 48h, plasma
glucose levels were measured by glucometer (Bioland, Germany) using
a blood sample from tail-vein of mice. Mice with blood sugar level
higher than 8.5.5-11.5 mmol/l are considered as moderate
diabetic.
4.6. Experimental DesignIn the experiment, a total of 45 mice
were used. The diabetic animals were divided into five groups and
each group comprises of five mice. Group I received vehicle 0.5%
methyl cellulose stands for normal control. Group II received
vehicle 0.5% methyl cellulose serves as diabetic control. Group III
selected for diabetic standard drug group which received metformin
orally at a dose of 100 mg/kg. Group IV and Group V were received
250 and 500 mg/kg body weight mice CF extract orally after chemical
diabetes. 4.7. Antidiabetic activity tests
The animals of Group IV and Group V received oral
administrations of bark extract of C. fistula at a dose 250 and 500
mg/kg/ml body weight using intrgastric tube. Group III received
metformin (100 mg/kg body weight), while Group II serves as
diabetic control (vehicle 0.5% MC). The blood samples were analyzed
for blood glucose content by Glucometer.
4.7.1. Oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) in diabetic miceAfter
fasting for overnight, a baseline blood glucose level was estimated
(0 minutes). Without delay, a glucose solution (2 gm/kg body
weight) was administered by gavage. At the same time standard drug
and plant extracts were administered orally to the respective
animal groups. Four more blood samples were taken at 30, 60, 90,
120 minutes after glucose administration and blood glucose level
was estimated in all the experiments by using glucometer
(Bioland-423, Germany).4.7.2. Oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) in
glucose induced hyperglycemic miceFor oral glucose tolerance test
(OGTT) animals were divided into four groups (each group comprises
five mice). Group VI to Group IX was prepared for testing of
hypoglycemic effect after glucose-induced hyperglycemia in mice
Group VI received vehicle 0.5% methyl cellulose stands for normal
control. Group VII received metformin orally at a dose of 100 mg/kg
and Group VIII and Group IX were received 250 and 500 mg/kg body
weight mice CF extract orally. Four more blood samples were taken
at 30, 60, 90, 120 minutes after glucose administration and blood
glucose level was estimated in all the experiments by using
glucometer.4.8. Analgesic activity test
Mice were divided into four groups (each group comprises five
mice). Group I served as vehicle control mice received vehicles (1%
Tween 80 in water), Group II served as standard group received
Diclofenac sodium (80 mg/kg i.p) as standard drug, Group III and
Group IV received 250 and 500 mg/kg orally of CF extract
respectively. The analgesic activity of the samples was studied
using acetic acid-induced writhing model in mice. Writhing was
induced in mice by intraperitoneal administration of 0.1 ml of 1%
Acetic Acid. Extract and vehicle were administered orally 30 mins
before intraperitoneal administration of 1% acetic acid but
Diclofenac-Na was administered intraperitoneally 15 mins before
injection of acetic acid. After an interval of 5 mins, the mice
observed for specific contraction of body referred to as writhing
for the next 10 minutes (Ahmed F. et al. 2004).
4.9. Statistical AnalysisData were expressed as mean Standard
error of mean (SEM). Statistical comparison was performed by
one-way ANOVA, followed by Dunetts Multiple Comparison. Results
considered as significant when p values were less than 0.05 (p