Pterocarpus marsupium and Gymnema Sylvestre Powder in Alleviation of Biochemical Abnormalities Associated with Human Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

Type 2 diabetes mellitus is reaching epidemic proportions worldwide and is a complex metabolic disorder characterized by hyperglycemia and dysregulated lipid metabolism [1,2]. Abdominal obesity and dyslipidemia (increased triglycerides, high LDL-cholesterol and low HDL-cholesterol), and hypertension, as well as altered platelet function [3] are the major risk factors contributing to type 2 diabetes. The metabolic defects that underlie the development of type 2 diabetes may include islet β-cells dysfunction, hyperglucagonemia, elevated endogenous glucose production, development of peripheral insulin resistance, inflammation of adipose tissue, and dysregulation of adipokines production [4]. Chronic elevation of blood glucose which is a central factor in the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) [5] which in turn promote cellular damage and contribute to the development and progression of diabetic complications, such as cardiovascular disease, nephropathy, retinal blindness, neuropathy, and peripheral gangrene [6]. The conventional allopathic drugs, sulfonylureas, meglitinides, biguanides, metformin, thiazolidinediones, miglitol, acarbose, etc. although effective [7], are associated with minor or major side effects on long term use [8]. Statins used in the treatment of dyslipidemia have their own limitations [9].