Antidiabetic phytochemicals: an overview of medicinal plants and their bioactive compounds in diabetes mellitus treatment

Abstract

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a group of metabolic disorders characterized by hyperglycemia due to insufficient insulin secretion or action. Contributing factors include genetic predisposition, obesity, family history, inactivity, and environmental risks. Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), the most common form, involves impaired insulin secretion by pancreatic β-cells, leading to insulin resistance. By 2045, it is projected that India and China will have approximately 134.3 and 110.8 million diabetic individuals, respectively. Although synthetic drugs are effective in managing DM, they often come with side effects. Consequently, plant-based phytochemicals with antidiabetic properties are gaining attention. Research indicates that around 115 medicinal plants (MPs) have antidiabetic effects, particularly those from the Fabaceae, Liliaceae, and Lamiaceae families. Bioactive compounds like alkaloids, triterpenoids, flavonoids, and phenolics are known to combat DM. Traditional medicinal systems, particularly in developing countries, offer effective DM management. This review highlights the importance of MPs and their bioactive compounds in treating diabetes and underscores the need for further research to commercialize plant-based antidiabetic drugs.