AN EXHAUSTIVE REVIEW ON HERBS USED IN THE MANAGEMENT OF DIABETES MELLITUS TYPE 2

Diabetes mellitus is one of the most common metabolic disorders associated with disturbed hormonal secretion. Diabetes is characterized by high blood glucose levels over a prolonged period of time. High sugar levels are due to abnormal metabolism of carbohydrates and lipids which is caused by absolute or relative insulin deficiency. Herbal medicines have been the highly esteemed source of medicine throughout the human history. Herbs are becoming more popular today because of their least side effects, holistic beliefs, easy availability and low cost. Individual herbal products and formulations are gaining popularity because of their quality manufacturing using modern analytical techniques and standardized raw materials. Herbal drugs are widely used for the treatment of diabetes worldwide in various dosage forms. India has a long list of native herbal drugs with scientifically proven blood sugar lowering properties. The seeds of Nigella sativa, Olea europaea, fruits of Aegle marmelos, Momordica charantia, Coccinia indica, Nigella sativa,Gymnema sylvestre leaves,whole plant of Pterocarpus marsupium, Syzygium cumini fruits, Swertia punicea, Urtica dioica, gum of Ferula assa-foetida and seeds of Trigonella foenum graecum were discussed along with their reported mechanisms of action. In this review paper an attempt has been made to give an overview of certain Indian plants which have shown their anti-diabetic activity in various pre-clinical studies.