Eff ect of Gymnema sylvestre in the Control of Diabetes: A Review

Abstract

Gymnema sylvestre is a plant of the Asclepiadaceae family that grows worldwide. It is one of the most potent medicinal plants. G. sylvestre leaves are commonly utilised in the treatment of diabetes mellitus.In Indian herbal medicines, it is used as a diuretic drug. The most important active chemical ingredient taken out from the Gymnema plant are gymnemic acids which help prevent glucose absorption. This herb is famous for its antihelmentic, anti-infl ammatory, diuretic and stomach-friendly qualities. Leucoderma, constipation, hemorrhoids, jaundice, cardiopathy, asthma, bronchitis and dyspepsia are said to be treated with this plant. The Gymnema leaves are chewed to reduce the appetite for sweet and bitter items and applied on the aff ected body regions to heal a variety of illnesses. An examination of the literature found that the plant has anti-infl ammatory, anti-obesity, hypolipidaemic, antidiabetic, free radical scavenging and antibacterial properties. According to literature reviews, Gymnema is an extensively used plant for the cure and management of a lot of disorders and is a key constituent in numerous ayurvedic formulations. However, scientists have not made much eff ort to prove its effi cacy. The current review focuses on G. sylvestre’s folk and ayurvedic usage and pharmacognostic, pharmacological and phytochemical research. G. sylvestre may aid weight reduction by reducing sweet cravings and controlling blood sugar levels. This review highlights the plant description, literature and phytochemistry of G. sylvestre. It also talks briefl y about diabetes mellitus and how G. sylvestre can be useful in the treatment of it. We also discuss about the side eff ects and toxicity of it.