Hydrangea dulcis folium preserves β-cell mass in diabetic db/db mice

The anti-diabetic efficacy of Hydrangea dulcis folium (HDF) was studied in db/db mice and their littermates (db/-). Supplementation of HDF (1% and 3%) decreased glucose level significantly by 2- and 4-fold and increased significantly insulin level by 3- and 4.5-fold compared to db/db mice (P < 0.05). Administration of HDF (1% and 3%) ameliorates hyperglycemia and improves glucose homeostasis in db/db mice in a dose-dependent manner by preventing loss of β-cell mass resulting in increase of insulin secretion. In addition, 3% HDF treatment significantly reduced the food intake, weight gain, and blood lipids in db/db mice.