The Relationship Between Antidiabetic Plants and Diabetes
Chapter from the book: Meydan, İ. & Demir, C. (eds.) 2025. Health and Biochemistry.

Ercan Demirok
Van Yüzüncü Yıl University
Uğur Özdek
Van Yüzüncü Yıl University

Synopsis

Diabetes mellitus is a metabolic disease that, in addition to acute complications, also increases the risk of premature death and the cost of care through its macrovascular and microvascular complications. Its prevalence is increasing worldwide, and the incidence varies among societies. The most commonly recognized classifications of diabetes are type 1 diabetes mellitus, type 2 diabetes mellitus, and gestational diabetes. An ideal antidiabetic agent should reduce plasma glucose levels to normal while minimizing side effects. Oral antidiabetics are used in diabetics who do not require insulin and whose blood sugar cannot be controlled through diet. Despite the use of conventional medicine, it has been reported that patients with poor glycemic control tend to choose complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) due to their personal or spiritual beliefs, religion and faith, or recommendations from family or friends. The use of herbal products is not limited to dietary uses such as food and nutrition; they also have a unique role in the treatment of various diseases. Complementary and alternative treatments using herbal medicines are attracting the attention of many diabetic patients. Numerous common herbs are claimed to lower blood sugar levels, so the possibility of better glycemic control or reduced reliance on insulin injections through herbal remedies is undoubtedly appealing. Herbal remedies have always been a preferred treatment option for patients due to their faith in the root cause and affordability, or used as an adjunct to conventional diabetes treatment. Laboratory research has reached patients' beds through clinical trials and marketed formulations. However, the efficacy and potential side effects of herbs used as complementary and alternative methods for diabetes management must be supported by evidence-based practices and various tests.

How to cite this book

Demirok, E. & Özdek, U. (2025). The Relationship Between Antidiabetic Plants and Diabetes. In: Meydan, İ. & Demir, C. (eds.), Health and Biochemistry. Özgür Publications. DOI: https://doi.org/10.58830/ozgur.pub933.c3916

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Published

November 4, 2025

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