~ 102 ~ International Journal of Chemical Studies 2025; 13(4): 102-106 P-ISSN: 2349–8528 E-ISSN: 2321–4902 www.chemijournal.com IJCS 2025; 13(4): 102-106 © 2025 IJCS Received: 09-04-2025 Accepted: 13-05-2025 SP Soul Shekhar Department of Chemistry, Guru Nanak First Grade College, Bidar, Karnataka, India ND Satyanarayan Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Kuvempu University, Post Graduate Centre, Kadur, Karnataka, India CH Chandrashekhar Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Kuvempu University, Post Graduate Centre, Kadur, Karnataka, India Corresponding Author: SP Soul Shekhar Department of Chemistry, Guru Nanak First Grade College, Bidar, Karnataka, India Α-amylase inhibitory potential of Balanites roxburghiana Linn. fruit extracts: A comparative solvent-based study SP Soul Shekhar, ND Satyanarayan and CH Chandrashekhar DOI: https://www.doi.org/10.22271/chemi.2025.v13.i4b.12564 Abstract The global prevalence of diabetes mellitus necessitates the exploration of novel therapeutic interventions with minimal adverse effects. This research evaluates the enzyme inhibitory properties of Balanites roxburghiana fruit extracts against α-amylase using three different solvents (n-hexane, dichloromethane, and methanol) through chromogenic DNSA methodology. The investigation revealed remarkable variance in bioactivity among solvent extracts. n-hexane extract exhibited exceptional inhibitory capacity, demonstrating concentration-responsive effects with maximum inhibition of 90.10% at 500 μg/mL, followed by 62.03% and 51.52% at 250 and 100 μg/mL respectively. Dichloromethane extract showed limited bioactivity (4.86-7.29%), while methanol extract unexpectedly enhanced enzymatic activity. Acarbose served as reference standard with complete inhibition across all concentrations. Phytochemical evaluation identified steroids and saponins as predominant compounds in the active n- hexane fraction. These outcomes establish the therapeutic significance of lipophilic constituents in B. roxburghiana fruits for managing postprandial hyperglycemia. Keywords: Antidiabetic agents, Balanites roxburghiana, Enzyme inhibition, Natural products, Postprandial glucose control, Chromogenic assay 1. Introduction The escalating global burden of metabolic disorders, particularly type 2 diabetes mellitus, presents unprecedented challenges to healthcare systems worldwide. This chronic condition affects approximately 537 million adults globally, with projections indicating continued growth due to lifestyle modifications and demographic transitions. The pathophysiological complexity involves multiple defects including impaired insulin secretion, peripheral insulin resistance, and dysregulated hepatic glucose metabolism [1] . Contemporary therapeutic approaches rely heavily on synthetic pharmaceuticals, including metformin, sulfonylureas, and α-glucosidase inhibitors. However, these interventions frequently produce undesirable complications such as gastrointestinal dysfunction, weight gain, and hypoglycemic episodes [2] . The limitations of existing treatments have catalyzed research into plant-derived alternatives that may offer superior safety profiles with comparable efficacy. Enzymatic carbohydrate digestion represents a critical regulatory point for glucose homeostasis. α-Amylase, a key digestive enzyme, catalyzes the initial breakdown of complex carbohydrates into oligosaccharides and simple sugars. Therapeutic intervention at this level can effectively modulate postprandial glucose excursions without inducing severe hypoglycemia [3] . This approach has gained considerable attention as a promising strategy for diabetes management. 1.1 Botanical Profile and Ethnobotanical Significance Balanites roxburghiana Planch. (Zygophyllaceae) represents a taxonomically significant species indigenous to arid ecosystems across Africa and South Asia. This xerophytic plant exhibits remarkable environmental adaptability, thriving in harsh climatic conditions where conventional vegetation fails to survive. The species displays characteristic morphological features including thorny branches, compound leaves, and distinctive elongated fruits [4, 5] . Traditional medicine systems have extensively utilized various plant parts for treating diverse ailments. Historical records document its application in managing metabolic disorders, inflammatory conditions, and infectious diseases. Contemporary ethno botanical surveys continue to validate traditional knowledge, revealing ongoing utilization by indigenous communities across its natural distribution range.