The influence of using Bauhinia forficata Link in glycemic, lipid and toxicological profile in in vivo experimental models: A systematic review

Abstract

Bauhinia forficata Link, popularly known as 'cow's paw', is characterized as a plant species widely used in traditional medicine as hypoglycemiant. Given its high empirical use for therapeutic purposes coupled with the high interest in research with this plant species, this study aimed to perform a systematic review on B. forficata L. seeking for evidence-based information on the influence of the use of this plant in glycemic, lipid and toxicological profile in in vivo experimental models, using a secondary survey of experimental studies conducted and published on this plant species. A search strategy was established and a total of 36 articles were found in the search, after exclusion of duplicate articles and application of inclusion criteria, only 12 were evaluated in detail. The glucose dosing was the most performed biochemical determination, found in 100% of the studies. Most articles proved the hypoglycemiant action of preparations from B. forficata L. Regarding the influence on lipid parameters, there were discordant results, and concerning toxicity, few articles on the subject were found, but the results indicated that the use of the aqueous extract from the plant is safe. Thus, it was possible to demonstrate the pharmacological potential of this plant species.