Indian Researchers Highlight 400 Medicinal Plants for Diabetes Management

Bhubaneswar: A team of Indian researchers suggests that nature holds the key to managing type-2 diabetes. They assert that there are approximately 400 medicinal plants that could effectively reduce blood sugar levels, but only 21 of them have been extensively studied.

These researchers have identified several herbal plants that exhibit significant anti-hyperglycemic properties. Examples include Vijayasar, Jamun, Cumin, and Turmeric. These plants have already been utilized in the development of drugs such as BGR-34, which contains active compounds derived from Daruharidra, Gudmar, Methi, and Vijayasar.

However, the researchers emphasize the need for further in-depth research on the remaining herbal plants. They believe that exploring these plants could bring new perspectives to the medical field and revolutionize the management of diabetes.

Interestingly, the researchers note that certain allopathic drugs, such as metformin and SGLT2 inhibitors, have their origins in herbal sources. Metformin, for example, is obtained from the Galega officinalis plant, which has historical use in treating diabetes.

Based on this observation, the researchers advocate for evidence-based trials on natural products. They believe that conducting comprehensive studies on medicinal plants could lead to the development of novel drugs for the modern management of diabetes.