Antihyperglycemic Activity, Total Phenolic, and Total Flavonoid Contents of 96% Ethanol Extract of Pisang Batu (Musa balbisiana Colla) Leaves

Abstract

Diabetes mellitus is a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by elevated blood glucose levels. The leaves of Musa balbisiana Colla commonly known as Pisang Batu have been traditionally recognized in Indonesia for their potential to lower blood sugar level. The aim of this study was to determine the antihyperglycemic activity, total phenolic, and total flavonoid contents of the ethanol extract of Pisang Batu leaves. Pisang Batu leaves were extracted by maceration in 96% ethanol. The 96% ethanol extract was subjected to phytochemical screening following standard procedures. The total flavonoid and total phenolic contents of the extract were determined using aluminium chloride colorimetric, and Folin-Ciocalteu methods, respectively. The antihyperglycemic activity of the extract was determined in vivo using 5% glucose-induced hyperglycemic mice. Maceration of the dried powdered leaves of Pisang Batu resulted in an extract yield of 12%. Phytochemical screening revealed the presence of flavonoids, tannins, triterpenoids, and saponins. The total flavonoid and total phenolic contents of the extract were found to be 454.87 mg QE/g and 16.14 mg GAE/g, respectively. The extract significantly reduced blood glucose levels in 5% glucose-induced hyperglycemic mice. The percentage reduction in blood glucose by various doses of the extract were 31%, 32%, and 41% at 100 mg/kg, 200 mg/kg, and 300 mg/kg, respectively, and these were comparable to that of the positive control (glibenclamide) with percentage reduction of 45%. In conclusion, the 96% ethanol extract of M. balbisiana leaves exhibited promising antihyperglycemic activity, which is likely due to its high phenolic, and flavonoid contents.