Antidiabetic Properties, Bioactive Constituents, and Other Therapeutic Effects ofScoparia dulcis

Abstract

This review discusses the antidiabetic activities ofScoparia dulcisas well as its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties in relation to the diabetes and its complications. Ethnomedical applications of the herb have been identified as treatment for jaundice, stomach problems, skin disease, fever, and kidney stones, reproductory issues, and piles. Evidence has been demonstrated through scientific studies as to the antidiabetic effects of crude extracts ofS. dulcisas well as its bioactive constituents. The primary mechanisms of action of antidiabetic activity of the plant and its bioactive constituents are throughα-glucosidase inhibition, curbing of PPAR-γand increased secretion of insulin. Scoparic acid A, scoparic acid D, scutellarein, apigenin, luteolin, coixol, and glutinol are some of the compounds which have been identified as responsible for these mechanisms of action.S. dulcishas also been shown to exhibit analgesic, antimalarial, hepatoprotective, sedative, hypnotic, antiulcer, antisickling, and antimicrobial activities. Given this evidence, it may be concluded thatS. dulciscould be promoted among the masses as an alternative and complementary therapy for diabetes, provided further scientific studies on the toxicological and pharmacological aspects are carried out through eitherin vivoor clinical means.