Effects of Portulaca Oleracea on Insulin Resistance in Rats with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

Objective: To study the effects of Portulaca oler acea, a Chinese medicinal herb, on insulin resistance in rats with type 2 diabet es mellitus (T2DM). Methods: Experimental model of T2DM was established by injection of streptozotocin (25mg/kg) and feeding with high calorie forage. The effects o f Portulaca oleracea on oral glucose tolerance, serum levels of insulin, triglyc eride, total cholesterol, high density lipoproteins cholesterol and free f atty acids, and insulin sensitivity index were all observed. Results: Portulaca oleracea could reduce the body weight, improve the impaired glucose tolerance and lipid metabolism, decrease serum free fatty acids, attenuate hyperinsulinemia and elevate insulin sensitivity. Conclusion: Portulaca oleracea could improve insulin resistance i n rats with T2DM, and the mechanism might be related to its actions in improving lipid metabolism and decreasing free fatty acids.