Author(s):

Preety Raj, Ramesh Kumar Nirala, Kumari Anjana, Archana and KG Mandal

Abstract: Medicinal plants have a vast potential in the treatment of various ailments due to the presence of therapeutically important Phytochemicals. The therapeutic value of Indian medicinal plants is known since the ancient ages. Ayurveda, the oldest system of medicine recommends use of remedies, mainly based on medicinal herbs, for the treatment of a variety of diseases in man and animals. The herbal remedies are economical and within the reach of common man. It has been pointed out that about three-fourths of world’s population cannot afford the expensive products of western pharmaceuticals. Therefore, about 80 per cent of people living in developing countries are almost completely dependent on traditional means for their primary healthcare needs. The therapeutic value of Indian medicinal plants is well recognized and acknowledged all over the world. There has been an ever enhancing awareness globally to rely on natural remedies in place of the chemical drugs. More recently, the western multinational drug companies, taking leads from ayurveda and Indian folklore medicines, are diverting their R and D activities on Indian medicinal plants to find out the active principles, isolate and patent them. Diabetes is a serious metabolic disorder and several marketed medications are available to alleviate the symptoms of diabetes. However, these over the counter drugs are expensive and associated with several complications. Herbal medicines are gaining importance as they are cost-effective and also display improved therapeutic effects with lesser side effects. The present review includes the reports available on medicinal plants used for treating diabetes complications. The aim of the review is to categorize and summarize the available information on medicinal plants with anti-diabetic properties and suggesting outlooks for future research.

Pages: 2124-2127  |  782 Views  336 Downloads

Download (627KB)