Volume 10 ; Issue 2 ; in Month : July-Dec (2026) Article No : 205
Anand P, Fazal B, Karim MJ, et al.

Abstract

Diabetes mellitus is one of the most prevalent chronic metabolic disorders worldwide and is characterized by persistent hyperglycemia resulting from impaired insulin secretion, insulin resistance, or both. The increasing global burden of diabetes, coupled with the limitations and adverse effects associated with conventional antidiabetic drugs, has accelerated the search for safer and more effective plant-derived therapeutic alternatives. Medicinal plants rich in bioactive phytochemicals have emerged as promising candidates owing to their multitarget mechanisms, antioxidant potential, and comparatively lower toxicity. Among these, Costus igneus (Insulin Plant) and Vernonia amygdalina (Bitter Leaf) have attracted considerable scientific attention because of their traditional use in the management of diabetes and their diverse pharmacological properties. This review comprehensively summarizes the phytochemical composition, extraction techniques, phytochemical profiling approaches, and in-vitro antidiabetic activities of Costus igneus and Vernonia amygdalina. Major phytoconstituents identified in these plants include flavonoids, phenolic acids, alkaloids, tannins, terpenoids, saponins, glycosides, phytosterols, and various antioxidant compounds. Advanced analytical techniques have significantly enhanced the identification and characterization of these bioactive molecules. The review further discusses the antidiabetic mechanisms demonstrated through various in-vitro experimental models, including α-amylase inhibition, α-glucosidase inhibition, glucose uptake assays, glucose diffusion retardation, protein glycation inhibition, pancreatic β-cell protection, antioxidant assays, and insulin-mimetic activities. Overall, the available evidence suggests that Costus igneus and Vernonia amygdalina represent valuable natural reservoirs of bioactive compounds with substantial potential for the development of novel plant-based antidiabetic therapeutics. Their multifunctional pharmacological properties support their continued investigation as complementary and alternative strategies for diabetes management. This review provides an updated scientific perspective that may facilitate future translational research and pharmaceutical development in herbal antidiabetic therapy.

Full Text Attachment

Views : 112      Downloads : 11

RSS