The search for new hypoglycemic agents from plants

Diabetes mellitus is a serious endocrine disorder that causes millions of deaths worldwide. The conventional drugs are associated with a number of adverse effects and limitations. In the search for better alternatives, many medicinal plants have been investigated and a variety of compounds have also been isolated. In the present review, medicinal plants selected from those that have been investigated for their antidiabetic potential between the year 2000 and 2013 are presented. The most common families of plants presented are the Asteraceae, Euphorbiaceae and Gentianaecae. The structures of some previously isolated compounds with antidiabetic potential are presented. Most of the isolated antidiabetic principles are alkaloids, flavonoids, amino acid, steroids and organic acids. It was however discovered that most of the investigations are preliminary in nature. More detailed investigations into the efficacy, mode of action and safety profile of these plants and the isolated compounds in preclinical and clinical studies are recommended.   Key words: Antidiabetic plants, hyperglycemia, hypoglycemia, medicinal plants review.