Phytochemicals for the management of diabetes mellitus

Persistent hyperglycemia brought on by deficiencies in insulin secretion, action, or both is a hallmark of diabetes mellitus, a chronic metabolic disease. Effective long term diabetes management is still difficult despite the availability of various synthetic medications because of drug resistance, adverse effects and accessibility issues in developing nations. Recently, bioactive compounds derived from medicinal plants have garnered a lot of attention as potential diabetic therapy alternatives or supplements. This chapter studies the several types of phytochemicals and how they control glucose metabolism, including alkaloids, flavonoids, terpenoids, phenolic acids, tannins, and saponins. These compounds produce more insulin, inhibit the enzymes that break down carbohydrates, improve insulin sensitivity, have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant qualities, and protect pancreatic β-cells. The advantages, disadvantages, and possibilities of phytochemical-based treatments are also covered, with an emphasis on the need for clinical validation, standardization, and innovative delivery strategies to increase their efficacy and bioavailability.