Vol. 11, Issue 3 (2022)

Author(s):
Dr. IV Srinivasa Reddy

Abstract:
Diabetes mellitus (DM) results from the inability of the pancreas to produce sufficient insulin or weakened cellular response to the insulin produced, which leads to hyperglycemia. Current treatments of DM focus on the use of oral hypoglycemic drugs such as acarbose, alphaglucose inhibitors, sulphonylureas, thiazolidinediones, and biguanides to control blood glucose levels. However, these medications are known to have various side effects in addition to their bioavailability, efficacy, and safety concerns. These drawbacks have increased interest in the anti-diabetic potential of plant-derived bioactive compounds. Madhunasini (Gymnema sylvestre, Asclepiadaceae) is regarded as one of the plants with potent anti diabetic properties. This plant is also used for controlling obesity in the form of Gymnema leaf powder. The active compound of the plant is a group of acids termed as gymnemic acids. It has been observed that there could be a possible link between obesity, Gymnemic acids and diabetes. Gymnema is most often consumed in Western medicine in the form of pills or tablets, making dosage easier to control and monitor. It can also come in the form of leaf powder or extract.