A Review of Antidiabetic Potential of Ethnomedicinal Plants

Abstract

Objective: Diabetes Mellitus (DM) is a common metabolic disorder throughout the world affecting the people of both developed and developing countries. Diabetes mellitus is caused by the abnormality of carbohydrate metabolism which is linked to low blood insulin level or insensitivity of target organs to insulin. It leads to hyperglycemic condition. Several herbs have been known to cure and control diabetes without causing any side effects. Key findings: The present review is an attempt to list the plants with anti-diabetic activity, originating from different parts of world. A total of 177 plants belonging to 156 genera and 76 families were described and listed in the review. The plants have been tabulated with botanical, family and medicinal uses. Conclusions: This study led to the wealth knowledge of traditional medicinal plants that are being used as a diabetic treatment. The further investigation on these medicinal plants may lead to the discovery of novel bioactive compounds in the pharmaceutical industry.