Phytochemical Profiling and Antidiabetic Potential of Argemone mexicana L. (Papaveraceae) Leaves: An In-vitro Study

Phytochemical Profiling and Antidiabetic Potential of Argemone mexicana L. (Papaveraceae) Leaves: An In-vitro Study

Bamisaye Olaofe Oyawaluja*1, Aminat Asabi Oyawaluja2, Oluwanifemi Deborah Adegbolagun1and Dolapo Ruth Oladele1

 

  1. Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Lagos, Idi-Araba Campus, Lagos, Nigeria.
  2. Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Lagos, Idi-Araba Campus, Lagos, Nigeria.

 

Key words:

Phytochemical analysis, Argemone mexicana, Antidiabetic activity, Enzyme inhibition, Antioxidant.

 

 

 

 

*Corresponding author: boyawaluja@unilag .edu ng;
DOI:https://doi.org/10.61594/tnpr.v6(2).2025.123

Page No: 70-79
Volume: 6, Issue 2, 2025
Trends in Natural Products Research
Copy Right: NAPREG

Abstract

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by persistent hyperglycemia, which, if left untreated, can lead to severe complications. The limitations of existing synthetic antidiabetic drugs have driven the interest in plant-based alternatives with fewer side effects. Argemone mexicana, a medicinal plant widely used in traditional medicine, has been explored for its potential antidiabetic properties. This study aimed to evaluate the phytochemical composition, nutritional profile, and in vitro antidiabetic potential of Argemone mexicana. The methanol extract of A. mexicana leaves was subjected to qualitative and quantitative phytochemical analyses to identify bioactive compounds. Proximate analyses were conducted to determine the nutritional composition of the plants. The antioxidant activity was evaluated using DPPH radical scavenging and total antioxidant capacity assays. Enzyme inhibition studies were performed to assess the inhibitory effects of the extract on α-amylase and α-glucosidase activity. Phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of significant amounts of alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, and phenolic compounds. Proximate analysis indicated the presence of crude protein, fiber, and essential micronutrients. The extract exhibited strong antioxidant activity. The enzyme inhibition assays showed substantial inhibitory effects on α-amylase and α-glucosidase, with inhibition rates comparable to those of acarbose. These findings suggested that A. mexicana possesses bioactive properties that may contribute to diabetes management by modulating carbohydrate digestion and glucose absorption.