INSULIN BIOSYNTHESIS USING PLANT SYSTEMS
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.22159/ijcpr.2026v18i2.8050Keywords:
Diabetes mellitus, Hyperglycemia, Medicinal plants, Herb, Bioactive compoundAbstract
Traditional plant-based medicines have been used for centuries to treat and prevent various diseases. These remedies, derived from natural plant extracts, are often more affordable and accessible, especially in developing countries. In addition to being cost-effective, plant-based traditional medicines offer a wide range of biological activities, including antiallergic, anticancer, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, and antioxidant properties. These benefits make them valuable tools in managing chronic and infectious diseases. One of the most common chronic conditions worldwide is diabetes mellitus, a metabolic disorder characterized by persistent hyperglycemia and dysfunction in pancreatic β-cells. It results in abnormal carbohydrate, fat, and protein metabolism. While modern antidiabetic drugs are effective in controlling blood glucose levels, they are often associated with side effects such as weight gain, hypoglycemia, gastrointestinal discomfort, and long-term complications.
As a result, there is increasing interest in natural alternatives that are safer, well-tolerated, and equally effective. Traditional plant-based medicines have shown great promise in both clinical practice and research, with several herbs demonstrating hypoglycemic effects and the ability to improve insulin sensitivity. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), nearly 80% of the population in developing nations relies on traditional medicine for their primary healthcare needs. This underscores the importance and potential of plant-derived therapies not only in the treatment but also in the prevention of diabetes and its complications. Promoting the integration of traditional remedies with modern medicine may contribute to a healthier, more sustainable approach to disease management.
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