Role of medicinal plants in ameliorating the lipid and glucose levels in diabetes: A systematic literature review.

Abstract

Objective. Diabetes is a chronic disease that causes insulin resistance and destruction of β-cells in pancreas. It is highly associated with hyperglycemia and hyperlipidemia, which can cause microvascular and macrovascular complications. The aim of this systematic review was to evaluate the beneficial effects of medicinal plant extracts on ameliorating glucose levels and lipid profile in diabetic rats. Methods. A systematic review search was conducted using PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar and ScienceDirect databases using combined terms. The data were extracted and selected by two reviewers under the PRISMA guidelines, which included 25 articles. These 25 articles were selected by the inclusion and exclusion criteria. The quality assessments of the articles were carried out by using the Risk of Bias tool and animal intervention studies. Results. A total of 4651 articles were identified by searching the databases. Articles in the amount of 4505 were then excluded after screening the title and abstract. The remaining 146 articles proceeded to eligibility analysis and finally 25 articles were included into systemic review studies. From the 25 articles reviewed, Clerodendrum volubile showed the highest reducing effect on the blood glucose levels and lipid profile in diabetic rats. Solena amplexicaulis showed the lowest effect on ameliorating glucose levels, while Myrtus communis demonstrated the lowest effect on improving lipid profile in diabetic rats. Conclusion. The reviewed medicinal plant extracts reviewed demonstrated promising efficacy in ameliorating the blood glucose and lipid levels in diabetic rats.