Objective: The present study was aimed to investigate the effects of the aqueous extract of rhizome of phragmites australis on carbohydrate metabolism, some enzyme activities and pancreatic tissue in alloxan induced diabetic rats. Methods:Wistar rats were divided into three groups (n=6) as control, diabetic group and test groups (Diabetic+AEPA). Diabetes in rats was induced by alloxane using a single peritoneal injection of 150 mg/kg dose. Aqueous extract of Phragmites australis was supplemented (200 mg/kg b. w) orally for three weeks. The aqueous extract of Phragmites australis was prepared and phytochemical were analyzed by using standard methods. Blood glucose level, pancreas histology and various biochemical parameters were assessed. Results:The results of the phytochemical analysis of aqueous extract of Phragmites australis (AEPA) revealed the presence of tannin, terpenoids, glycosides and flavonoids. Compared with the control, a significant decrease in the body weight gain (p<0.01) and increase in food intake (p<0.001) were noticed in the diabetic group. The biochemical evaluation showed significantly higher values for glucose (p<0.001), lipid profile (p<0.05), transaminases (p<0.05), amylase and alkaline phosphatase (p<0.001) activities in diabetic group compared with the control. Histology of the pancreas showed congestion of vessels and focal area of necrosis in diabetic untreated rats. However, treatment with aqueous extract of Phragmites australis significantly normalized blood glucose, serum biochemical profile and pancreas histomorphology. Conclusion:It is suggested that aqueous extract of Phragmites australis exhibits a benefic effect in rat to a great extent in attenuating and restoring the damage sustained by diabetes.

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