ROLE OF DIET AND PLANTS ON DIABETIC PATIENTS -A CRITICAL APPRAISAL

摘要

Large section of Afro-Asian population depends on the indigenous medicinal practices far the treatment of diabetes. These are largely based on the use of roots, leaves, fruits and flowers of different plants. Diabetes occurs due to inefficiency to produce insulin or the absence of proper function of insulin to maintain glucose in the body. This review aims to verify whether neem leaves (Azadirachta indica) and mahogany seeds (Swietenia macrophylla) have any beneficial effect on diabetic patients. Neem leaves and mahogany seeds are used as traditional plant for treatment of diabetes. Hypoglycemic effect is observed with neem leaves when given as a leaf extract. The mahogany seeds revealed the presence of triterpenoids. These triterpenoids may serve as potential hypoglycemic agent in mahogany seeds.