A review on gymnema sylvestre a major antidiabetic asclepiadaceae herb
Journal name: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
Original article title: A review on gymnema sylvestre a major antidiabetic asclepiadaceae herb
The WJPR includes peer-reviewed publications such as scientific research papers, reports, review articles, company news, thesis reports and case studies in areas of Biology, Pharmaceutical industries and Chemical technology while incorporating ancient fields of knowledge such combining Ayurveda with scientific data.
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Jyothi Chaitanya Pagadala, Dhatri Madduru, Aparna Satya Deepthi Tadepalli
World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research:
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Full text available for: A review on gymnema sylvestre a major antidiabetic asclepiadaceae herb
Source type: An International Peer Reviewed Journal for Pharmaceutical and Medical and Scientific Research
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
Gymnema sylvestre, known as gurmar or Madhunashini, is a significant medicinal plant belonging to the Asclepiadaceae family, indigenous to India, tropical Africa, and Australia. For over two millennia, it has been recognized in the Ayurvedic system for its antidiabetic properties. The plant's major active constituents, gymnemic acids, exhibit various biological activities, including antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial effects. Traditionally, Gymnema leaves have been utilized to treat diabetes, urinary disorders, and other health conditions. With its slow growth and unique propagation methods using seeds and stem cuttings, Gymnema has garnered attention for both commercial cultivation and medicinal applications.
Antidiabetic Properties of Gymnema Sylvestre
Gymnema sylvestre has gained acclaim primarily for its antidiabetic properties, attributed to its active compound, gymnemic acid. Several studies have confirmed the plant's effectiveness in regulating blood sugar levels. Research conducted on alloxan-induced diabetic rabbits demonstrated that dried leaf powder of Gymnema could maintain homeostasis of blood sugar levels. Furthermore, studies involving non-insulin dependent diabetes patients indicated that supplementation with Gymnema leaf extracts might support the regeneration or repair of pancreatic beta cells, subsequently raising insulin levels in the serum. Collectively, these findings support the herb's valuable role in managing diabetes and regulating glycemic control.
Antimicrobial and Antioxidant Activity
The antimicrobial and antioxidant properties of Gymnema sylvestre have also been well-studied, showcasing its potential as a natural therapeutic agent. The leaf extracts exhibit significant antibacterial activity against a variety of Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, suggesting it could serve as a valuable alternative to synthetic antimicrobial agents. Research indicates that phytochemicals present in the plant, including alkaloids, flavonoids, and saponins, contribute to these activities. Additionally, the plant's extracts have shown promising antioxidant properties, inhibiting free radicals, which may further support its therapeutic applications in combating oxidative stress-related diseases.
Green Synthesis of Nanoparticles
Recent advancements have highlighted the role of Gymnema sylvestre in green synthesis processes, particularly in the production of silver and gold nanoparticles. Utilizing plant extracts for nanoparticle synthesis has gained traction due to its environmentally friendly and stable nature. Biofunctionalized nanoparticles derived from Gymnema extracts are being studied for their enhanced medicinal properties, including potential applications in anti-cancer therapies. This innovative approach not only leverages the bioactive compounds in Gymnema but also suggests a novel avenue for the development of effective drug delivery systems and therapeutic agents.
Conclusion
In summary, Gymnema sylvestre represents a versatile medicinal plant with numerous applications in traditional medicine and modern therapeutic practices. Its established antidiabetic, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties, alongside the promising potential for nanoparticle synthesis, underscore the need for further research and conservation efforts. As the demand for this valuable herb increases, sustainable cultivation practices are imperative to ensure its availability for future generations. By understanding and leveraging the full spectrum of benefits associated with Gymnema sylvestre, we can enhance its role in health and medicine while promoting ecological stewardship.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is the significance of Gymnema sylvestre in traditional medicine?
Gymnema sylvestre, known as gurmar, has been used for over 2000 years in Ayurveda for treating diabetes, glycosuria, urinary disorders, and various other ailments due to its medicinal properties.
What are the chemical components of Gymnema sylvestre?
The major components of Gymnema sylvestre include gymnemic acids, saponins, anthraquinones, and flavonoids, which contribute to its antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and hepatoprotective activities.
How does Gymnema sylvestre interact with sweet substances?
Gymnema sylvestre contains antisweet components that reduce sensitivity to sweet substances, making it useful for those looking to control their sugar intake and manage diabetes.
What are the health benefits associated with Gymnema sylvestre?
Health benefits of Gymnema sylvestre include its antidiabetic properties, potential anti-obesity effects, anti-inflammatory activities, and its role in lowering cholesterol levels, among others.
How is Gymnema sylvestre propagated for commercial cultivation?
Gymnema sylvestre is primarily propagated through seed sowing and stem cuttings, allowing for efficient commercial cultivation while preserving its medicinal properties.
What is the ecological concern related to Gymnema sylvestre?
The increasing demand for Gymnema sylvestre has led to unsustainable harvesting practices, threatening its natural populations. There is a need for sustainable cultivation and conservation efforts to ensure its survival.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “A review on gymnema sylvestre a major antidiabetic asclepiadaceae herb”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.
1) Activity:
The term 'Activity' refers to the physiological effects that compounds or extracts from Gymnema sylvestre exhibit in biological systems. This includes antidiabetic, antibacterial, and antioxidant activities demonstrated in various studies. The efficacy of Gymnema's phytochemicals supports its traditional use in Ayurveda and other medicinal practices.
2) Phytochemical:
Phytochemicals are bioactive compounds found in plants that contribute to various health benefits. In the context of Gymnema sylvestre, these include gymnemic acids and saponins, which play crucial roles in its antidiabetic and antimicrobial properties, making them essential for understanding the therapeutic potential of this herb.
3) Pagadala:
Pagadala refers to Jyothi Chaitanya Pagadala, the lead author of the study. Her contributions to defining the medicinal uses, chemical composition, and various health benefits of Gymnema sylvestre underscore the importance of academic research in validating traditional medicine and promoting effective healthcare solutions.
4) India:
India is the native region of Gymnema sylvestre, where it has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for thousands of years. The cultural and historical significance of the plant highlights its role in traditional healing practices and its ongoing relevance in modern herbal medicine, particularly for diabetes management.
5) Family:
In biological taxonomy, 'Family' refers to a category of related plants. Gymnema sylvestre belongs to the Asclepiadaceae family, which indicates its relationships to other species and aids in identifying its characteristics and potential benefits, thereby enhancing our understanding of its ecological and medicinal significance.
6) Antibiotic (Antibacterial):
Antibacterial describes properties that inhibit the growth of bacteria. Gymnema sylvestre exhibits antibacterial activity against various strains, including Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. This property underscores its potential use in treating infections and highlights the need for natural alternatives to synthetic antibiotics in modern medicine.
7) Flavonoid:
Flavonoids are a class of phytonutrients found in many plants, including Gymnema sylvestre. They possess antioxidant properties, contribute to the plant's color, and have been linked to various health benefits, including anti-inflammatory and potential anticancer effects, thus playing a vital role in the plant's medicinal attributes.
8) Sugar:
Sugar, particularly in the context of Gymnema sylvestre, relates to its traditional use in managing diabetes. The name 'Gurmar' means 'sugar destroyer,' emphasizing its role in regulating blood sugar levels and its capability to suppress the taste of sweetness, making it beneficial for those with diabetes.
9) Gold (Golden):
Gold in this study refers to gold nanoparticles synthesized using extracts of Gymnema sylvestre. These nanoparticles are explored for their potential in drug delivery and cancer treatment, highlighting the innovative applications of traditional medicines in modern medical science and their role in enhancing therapeutic efficacy.
10) Medicine:
Medicine encompasses the science and practice of diagnosing, treating, and preventing disease. The study of Gymnema sylvestre as a traditional medicinal herb showcases its therapeutic relevance in treating diabetes and other ailments, bridging the gap between conventional and alternative medicinal approaches.
11) Species:
Species refers to a distinct group of living organisms. Gymnema sylvestre is a specific species known for its medicinal properties. Understanding its classification and characteristics is crucial for conservation efforts and ensuring sustainable use in herbal medicine and research applications.
12) Aureus:
Aureus, specifically Staphylococcus aureus, is a type of bacteria against which Gymnema sylvestre exhibits antibacterial properties. Its significance in the research underscores the utility of natural remedies in combating bacterial infections and highlights the ongoing need for effective alternatives to synthetic antibiotics in public health.
13) Inflammation:
Inflammation is a biological response associated with injury or infection. The anti-inflammatory properties of Gymnema sylvestre suggest its potential in managing inflammatory conditions, providing insights into how natural products can complement traditional therapies and reduce the need for synthetic anti-inflammatory drugs.
14) Substance:
Substance refers to any material with specific physical and chemical properties. In the context of Gymnema sylvestre, various bioactive substances contribute to its medicinal qualities. Analyzing these substances helps in understanding their roles in therapeutic applications and the plant's overall efficacy.
15) Cancer:
Cancer relates to the uncontrolled growth of cells in the body. Gymnema sylvestre has been studied for its anticancer properties, particularly through its bioactive compounds. This connection indicates a promising area of research exploring natural therapies in cancer treatment alongside conventional methods.
16) Silver:
Silver refers to silver nanoparticles that can be synthesized using plant extracts, including Gymnema sylvestre. Research into these nanoparticles emphasizes their potential in medical applications, such as antimicrobial agents and drug carriers, illustrating the innovative intersection of traditional herbal knowledge and modern nanotechnology.
17) Medium:
Medium pertains to the growth substances used in micropropagation of plants, such as Gymnema sylvestre. The choice of medium can significantly impact the growth and yield of phytochemicals, underlining the importance of scientific methods in the cultivation and preservation of medicinal plants.
18) Indian:
Indian refers to the cultural and geographical identity associated with Gymnema sylvestre, which is indigenous to India. Its recognition in Indian traditional medicine highlights the importance of regional herbal knowledge in global health discussions and underlines the significance of conserving its natural habitats.
19) Simha:
Sinha relates to Sanker Narayan Sinha, a researcher whose studies on Gymnema sylvestre's antibacterial properties contribute valuable insights into its potential therapeutic uses. His work emphasizes the importance of scientific inquiry in validating traditional claims and advancing the understanding of herbal medicines.
20) Rich (Rch):
Rich describes the abundance of bioactive compounds found in Gymnema sylvestre. The richness of its phytochemicals contributes to its broad spectrum of health benefits, including its applications in diabetes and obesity management, reinforcing the significance of diverse plant compounds in herbal medicine innovation.
21) Drug:
Drug refers to a chemical substance used for medical treatment. Gymnema sylvestre is explored for its potential to be developed into a natural drug for diabetes and obesity treatment. This reflects the trend toward integrating traditional herbal knowledge into modern pharmacology and therapeutic approaches.
22) Inci (Imci):
Inch is a unit of measurement that is used in the context of describing the size of Gymnema sylvestre leaves and flowers. Understanding the physical attributes of the plant contributes to its classification and identification, which is crucial for herbal medicine applications.
23) Western India:
Western India refers to the geographic region where Gymnema sylvestre is native. Its natural habitat influences the plant's growth, chemical composition, and therapeutic uses, emphasizing the significance of understanding regional biodiversity in the study and application of medicinal herbs.
24) Human body:
Human body signifies the physiological context in which Gymnema sylvestre’s compounds exert their effects. Studying how these phytochemicals interact with biological systems is essential for understanding their therapeutic potential, particularly in treating conditions such as diabetes and obesity.
25) Meshashringi (Mesasrngi, Mesha-shringi, Meshashrimgi):
Meshashringi is a vernacular name for Gymnema sylvestre in traditional Indian medicine. Understanding local names helps preserve cultural heritage and highlights the historical significance of the plant in indigenous healing practices, reinforcing the value of traditional knowledge in contemporary scientific research.
26) Arunachalam:
Arunachalam refers to a researcher who has contributed to the understanding of Gymnema sylvestre, especially regarding its application in synthesizing nanoparticles. This highlights the expanding role of scientific inquiry into how traditional plants can be integrated into modern medicinal technology.
27) Toxicity:
Toxicity refers to the degree to which a substance can harm living organisms. In relation to Gymnema sylvestre, understanding the toxicity of its extracts is crucial for assessing safety in therapeutic applications, thus ensuring its use is both effective and safe for human health.
28) Sanskrit:
Sanskrit signifies the ancient language of India, where terms like 'Madhunashini' for Gymnema sylvestre originated. Recognizing these linguistic roots helps appreciate the cultural and historical contexts of medicinal plants, fostering a deeper understanding of their applications in Ayurvedic traditions and modern herbal medicine.
29) Gopinatha (Gopinath, Gopi-natha):
Gopinath refers to a researcher who has contributed to the studies on Gymnema sylvestre. His findings on the plant's phytochemical composition and health benefits help validate traditional claims, guiding future research and encouraging the use of natural products in healthcare.
30) Marathi:
Marathi is a regional language spoken in Maharashtra, India, where Gymnema sylvestre is known by various vernacular names. The recognition of these local names emphasizes the plant's cultural significance in traditional medicine and highlights the importance of linguistic diversity in the study of herbal remedies.
31) Kannada:
Kannada refers to a language spoken in Karnataka, India, where Gymnema sylvestre is recognized by various local names. Understanding regional names and their significance in traditional medicine can enhance the appreciation of herbal plants within different cultural contexts, enriching the global understanding of herbal treatment.
32) Lucknow:
Lucknow is a city in India that represents a center for science communication and research. Its location in the context of Gymnema sylvestre highlights the importance of regional scientific contributions to the understanding and promotion of herbal remedies within broader health and wellness discussions.
33) Murugan (Murukan):
Murugan refers to a researcher who has studied Gymnema sylvestre’s antibacterial properties. His work adds to the body of knowledge surrounding herbal medicine, demonstrating how traditional practices can be supported by scientific investigation, thereby contributing to the validation of natural treatments.
34) Kalyani (Kalyanin):
Kalyani refers to a researcher whose work involves the analysis of Gymnema sylvestre. This reflects the collaborative nature of scientific research in the exploration of phytochemical properties and therapeutic potentials of traditional medicinal plants, further promoting their relevance in contemporary health contexts.
35) Cutting:
Cutting relates to a method of propagation for Gymnema sylvestre. Understanding various cultivation techniques, including cutting and seed propagation, is crucial for sustainable cultivation practices and helps ensure the plant's availability for both traditional and modern medicinal use.
36) Disease:
Disease refers to any abnormal condition affecting the body. Gymnema sylvestre is particularly noted for its role in treating diabetes, showcasing the plant's potential therapeutic uses. This underscores the importance of exploring natural solutions for prevalent health issues and enhancing holistic health strategies.
37) Science (Scientific):
Science encompasses the systematic study of the natural world and forms the basis for understanding the properties of plants like Gymnema sylvestre. Its applications in pharmaceutical research illustrate the vital intersection of traditional knowledge and modern scientific inquiry in the quest for innovative therapies.
38) Dhatri (Dhatr):
Dhatri refers to Dhatri Madduru, a co-author involved in the research on Gymnema sylvestre. Collaborative efforts among researchers enhance the understanding of the plant's beneficial properties and contribute to the body of scientific literature supporting traditional medicine.
39) Powder:
Powder refers to the form in which Gymnema sylvestre leaves are often processed for medicinal use. The powdered form is significant for its utility in traditional remedies and facilitates research into the plant's pharmacological properties, aiding its application in holistic health treatments.
40) Satya (Shatya):
Satya refers to Aparna Satya Deepthi Tadepalli, a co-author in the research study on Gymnema sylvestre. Collaboration among researchers emphasizes the importance of diverse perspectives in exploring the plant’s potential health benefits and advancing the field of herbal medicine.
41) Gupta:
Gupta refers to Gupta et al., researchers who evaluated the anti-inflammatory properties of Gymnema sylvestre. This work contributes valuable insights into the plant's medicinal potential, encouraging further exploration of how traditional herbs can be optimized for modern therapeutic applications.
42) Kumar:
Kumar refers to Vinay Kumar, a researcher who studied the anti-obesity properties of Gymnema sylvestre. This highlights the importance of ongoing research into natural compounds that may assist in weight management and metabolic health, enriching the scientific understanding of medicinal plants.
43) Hindi (Himdi):
Hindi is one of the primary languages spoken in northern India, where Gymnema sylvestre is commonly used in traditional medicine. The recognition of local languages enriches the cultural context of herbal usage and highlights the adaptability of herbal remedies in various linguistic communities.
44) Table:
Table refers to a format used to present organized information succinctly. The taxonomy of Gymnema sylvestre is often presented in table format, which aids in the understanding of its classification and relationships within the broader context of botanical studies and herbal medicine.
45) Field:
Field pertains to the various areas of study and research that relate to Gymnema sylvestre, including botany, pharmacology, and traditional medicine. This multidisciplinary exploration emphasizes the importance of comprehensive approaches in understanding and utilizing herbal remedies effectively.
46) Fight:
Fight signifies the struggle against diseases for which Gymnema sylvestre is traditionally used, particularly diabetes and obesity. The plant's medicinal properties highlight the importance of natural solutions in the ongoing battle against common health challenges and the pursuit of overall well-being.
47) Tamil:
Tamil is a regional language in India where Gymnema sylvestre is recognized. The local vernacular names signify the cultural integration of the plant in traditional medicine, further stressing the importance of linguistic plurality in the study of herbal therapies and their applications.
48) Blood:
Blood signifies the bodily fluid that carries nutrients and oxygen. The role of Gymnema sylvestre in regulating blood sugar levels is crucial for diabetes management, highlighting the plant's significance in maintaining metabolic health and supporting cardiovascular functions.
49) Cina:
China has a rich herbal medicinal tradition where plants like Gymnema sylvestre can be used. The recognition of its medicinal properties in both Indian and Chinese herbal medicine emphasizes the importance of cross-cultural study and collaboration in the field of botanical research.
50) Yoga:
Yoga represents a holistic practice intertwined with Ayurvedic principles, where Gymnema sylvestre may be integrated for its health benefits, particularly in treating metabolic disorders. This connection illustrates the importance of combining physical practice with herbal therapy in achieving overall wellness.
51) Beta:
Beta refers to beta cells in the pancreas, which are responsible for insulin production. Research on Gymnema sylvestre suggests its potential to regenerate or repair these cells in diabetic patients, highlighting its therapeutic role in managing diabetes and improving insulin sensitivity.
52) Genu:
Genu relates to the knee joint but is less relevant to the context of Gymnema sylvestre. However, understanding terms associated with physical health aids in comprehending the holistic approach of traditional medicine that encompasses various bodily systems.
53) Diet:
Diet signifies the food and nutrients consumed, which directly relate to managing health conditions like diabetes. The integration of Gymnema sylvestre into dietary recommendations emphasizes the relevance of herbal remedies in dietary management and holistic treatment approaches.
54) Cult:
Cult refers to the cultivation of Gymnema sylvestre, which is essential for ensuring a sustainable supply of this medicinal plant. Understanding cultivation practices is crucial for the conservation of such flora, ensuring their availability for future medicinal and research needs.