Antidiabetic Effect of Coffee Arabic in Alloxan-Induced Diabetic Rats

ABSTRACT Diabetes mellitus is a chronic metabolic disorder marked by persistent high blood glucose levels due to impaired insulin secretion or action. With its increasing prevalence, particularly in developing nations, the search for effective and accessible treatments is urgent. While conventional anti-diabetic drugs are effective, they often come with side effects and may be unaffordable for many, prompting the exploration of natural alternatives. This study investigated the anti-diabetic potential of Coffea arabica seed extract in alloxan-induced diabetic Wistar rats. Coffea arabica, commonly used in coffee production, contains bioactive compounds such as chlorogenic acids, polyphenols, alkaloids, and flavonoids, known for their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and glucose-lowering properties. Twenty-five adult Wistar rats were divided into five groups of five rats each. Group 1 was the normal control, Group 2 the diabetic control, Groups 3 and 4 received 100 mg/kg and 200 mg/kg of Coffea arabica extract respectively, and Group 5 received 150 mg/kg of metformin. Diabetes was induced using alloxan monohydrate (150 mg/kg), and rats with fasting blood glucose levels above 200 mg/dL after 72 hours were confirmed diabetic. Treatments were administered orally for 14 days. Fasting blood glucose levels were measured on days 0, 7, and 14. Additional assessments included body weight changes, lipid profile analysis (total cholesterol, triglycerides, HDL-C, LDL-C), and histological examination of pancreatic tissues. Results showed that Coffea arabica extract significantly reduced fasting blood glucose in a dose-dependent manner, with the 200 mg/kg dose showing results comparable to metformin. The extract also improved lipid profiles and helped maintain or increase body weight. Histological analysis revealed pancreatic islet regeneration in extract-treated rats, especially at the higher dose. The study concludes that Coffea arabica possesses strong anti-diabetic potential and could serve as a natural alternative for managing diabetes, warranting further research to confirm its efficacy and safety in humans.