ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL AND PHYTOCHEMICAL REVIEW OF INDIGENOUS PLANTS USED IN PRAMEHA (DIABETES) MANAGEMENT IN AYURVEDA

Abstract

Diabetes mellitus, a rapidly escalating global health concern, finds its parallel in the Ayurvedic concept of Prameha, a metabolic disorder with detailed classification, etiology, and therapeutic guidance described in ancient texts. Ayurveda offers a profound and holistic framework for understanding and managing Prameha, emphasizing dietary control, lifestyle modifications, and, notably, the use of medicinal plants. This review explores the ethnopharmacological and phytochemical landscape of indigenous plants traditionally employed in Prameha management. Classical references from Charaka, Sushruta, and Ashtanga Hridaya are examined alongside contemporary ethnobotanical documentation to highlight region-specific practices and commonly used formulations. Key antidiabetic herbs such as Gymnema sylvestre, Momordica charantia, Tinospora cordifolia, and Syzygium cumini are profiled with respect to their morphology, phytoconstituents, and standardization status. The article also critically evaluates their pharmacological activities, mechanisms of action, and available clinical and toxicity data. Emphasis is placed on integrating Ayurvedic principles with modern scientific methodologies through omics-based tools, phytochemical validation, and interdisciplinary collaboration. Future directions include the development of standardized polyherbal formulations and translational pipelines to elevate traditional remedies into evidence-based therapeutics. This synthesis aims to bridge the gap between traditional knowledge and modern healthcare, reinforcing the relevance of Ayurveda in contemporary diabetes management.