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. 2013:2013:343594.
doi: 10.1155/2013/343594. Epub 2013 May 7.

Treating type 2 diabetes mellitus with traditional chinese and Indian medicinal herbs

Zhijun Wang  1 , Jeffrey Wang, Patrick Chan
Affiliations

Treating type 2 diabetes mellitus with traditional chinese and Indian medicinal herbs

Zhijun Wang et al. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2013.

Abstract

Type II diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a fast-growing epidemic affecting people globally. Furthermore, multiple complications and comorbidities are associated with T2DM. Lifestyle modifications along with pharmacotherapy and patient education are the mainstay of therapy for patients afflicted with T2DM. Western medications are frequently associated with severe adverse drug reactions and high costs of treatment. Herbal medications have long been used in the treatment and prevention of T2DM in both traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and traditional Indian medicine (TIM). This review examines in vivo, in vitro, and clinical evidence supporting the use of various herbs used in TCM and TIM. The problems, challenges, and opportunities for the incorporation of herbal frequently used in TCM and TIM into Western therapy are presented and discussed.

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Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
Mechanisms of antidiabetic effect of TCM and TIM herbs. (1) Reduced carbohydrate absorption, such as inhibition of α-glucosidase, α-amylase, and aldose reductase, (2) increased glucose uptake in muscle and adipose tissues, (3) activation of PPAR, (4) increased insulin sensitivity/upregulation of receptor expression, (5) exertion of antioxidant effects and decreasing β-cell apoptosis, (6) stimulation of β-cell insulin secretion, (7) inhibition of hepatic gluconeogenesis/glycogenolysis, and (8) prevention of endogenous incretins from degradation/suppression of glucagon. The numbered mechanisms of actions correspond to Table 1.
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