Plant Extracts Could Help Glucose Control

Aboriginal and Indian plant extracts could help in the battle against diabetes, according to a new study.

Researchers from Swinburne University of Technology analyzed the properties of 12 medicinal plants to determine their ability to manage type 2 diabetes, assist in immune suppression and offset complications related to weight gain.

Witchetty Bush (Acacia kempeana) and Australian sandalwood (Santalum spicatum) were found to stimulate glucose uptake, while Dead finish (Acacia tetragonophylla), Turpentine bush (Beyeria Ieshnaultii) and Caustic weed (Euphorbia drumondii) were linked to positive changes in fat cells.

“We found that some of the plant extracts stimulated glucose uptake in fat cells while others reduced fat accumulation in fat cells,” said Dr. Vandana Gulati

Anti-cancer properties

Some of the plant extracts were also shown to have anti-cancer properties.

Previous research from Swinburne University points to two critical enzymes in these plant extracts that change carbohydrate metabolism, which is a key process involved in blood sugar control.

“Australian medicinal plants are an untapped source and should be further explored as potential treatments for disease,” said Enzo Palombo, Chair of Swinburne’s Department of Chemistry and Biotechnology.

Source: Swinburne University of Technology

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