HYPOGLYCEMIC ACTIVITY OF JUNIPER BERRIES

This work studies the hypoglycemic activity of a decoction from junipe r ''berries'' (Juniperus communis) both in normoglycemic and in strept ozotocin-diabetic animals. Juniper decoction decreases glycemic levels in normoglycemic rats at a dose of 250 mg/kg. This effect can be achi eved through: a) an increase of peripheral glucose consumption; b) a p otentiation of glucose-induced insulin secretion. The administration o f the decoction (125 mg total ''berries''/kg) to streptozotocin-diabet ic rats for 24 days results in a significant reduction both in blood g lucose levels and in the mortality index, as well as the prevention of the loss of body weight. This effect seems to be mediated by the peri pheral action of juniper.