Pancreatic alpha amylase (PAA) inhibitory activity of cinnamon, cumin, was evaluated in vitro to search new anti-diabetic agents as alternatives to synthetic medicines. Bark of cinnamon, seeds of cumin, fenugreek, nutmeg and fennel, buds of clove were extracted with hot water, methanol, chloroform, benzene and ethyl acetate and 30 extracts were tested for presence of PAA inhibitory activity using qualitative and quantitative methods and their modes of inhibition were determined. Presence of alpha amylase inhibitors were identified in 18 extracts in quantitative assay. Benzene extracts of cinnamon, clove, fenugreek and nutmeg and chloroform extract of cumin showed highest anti-amylase potential with IC50 values ranged between 2.09±0.12 - 2.89±0.079 mg/ml. All these extracts displayed non-competitive mode of inhibition on amylase activity as determined in terms of changes in Vmax and km values. In conclusion, active constituents of these five extracts possess anti-diabetic properties and can be used in management of diabetes mediated complications.
Key words: alpha amylase, spices, inhibition, diabetes, cinnamon
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