Antidiabetic activity of cow urine and a herbal preparation prepared using cow urine

Abstract

An herbal preparation prepared by the traditional healers of Mandsaur using cow urine and Gymnema sylvestre R. Br. (Asclepiadaceae), Momordica charantia L. (Cucurbitaceae), Eugenia jambolana Lam. (Myrtaceae), Aegle marmelos Correa (Rutaceae), Cinnamomum tamala Buch.-Ham. (Lauraceae), Aloe barbadensis Linn. (Liliaceae), and Trigonella foenum-graecum L. (Leguminosae) is being used in the treatment of diabetes. In order to scientifically appraise the claim, this preparation was studied for antidiabetic activity and also compared with the herbal preparation prepared using water. Fresh cow urine was also used in the study to identify the synergistic effect. The preparations were tested for antidiabetic activity in alloxan-induced diabetic rats at two dose level, 200 and 400 mg/kg, respectively. The study was done for a period of 21 days. The activity was compared with reference standard, insulin (1 unit/kg, i.p.) and control. The herbal preparations significantly (P < 0.05, P < 0.01) lowered the blood sugar level of hyperglycemic rats in a dose-dependent manner. Comparatively, the cow urine preparation showed better activity than did the preparation prepared using water. Fresh cow urine also exhibited significant antidiabetic effect. This study supports the claim of the local traditional healers. © 2008 Informa UK Ltd.