Plant-Based Therapeutics Agents for Glycemic Control: A Comprehensive Review of Stevia, Monk Fruit, Licorice Root, Mulberry Leaf and Fenugreek


Authors : Mustafa Alam; Md Quamruz Zafar

Volume/Issue : Volume 10 - 2025, Issue 5 - May

Google Scholar : https://tinyurl.com/dssmka96

DOI : https://doi.org/10.38124/ijisrt/25may1163

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Abstract : Diabetes mellitus (DM) remains one of the most prevalent metabolic disorders worldwide, imposing significant health and economic burdens. Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), characterized by insulin resistance and impaired insulin secretion, requires long-term management strategies to control hyperglycemia and prevent complications. Conventional pharmacotherapies, while effective, are associated with adverse effects and limitations that have spurred interest in natural alternatives. Plant-derived bioactive compounds offer promising adjunct or alternative therapeutic options due to their multifaceted mechanisms and generally favorable safety profiles. This comprehensive review focuses on five botanicals— Stevia rebaudiana (stevia), Siraitia grosvenorii (monk fruit), Glycyrrhiza glabra (licorice root), Morus alba (mulberry leaf), and Trigonella foenum-graecum (fenugreek)—all widely studied for their antidiabetic properties. We explore their phytochemical constituents, molecular mechanisms of action, preclinical and clinical evidence, and potential integration into diabetes management. Emphasis is placed on their effects on insulin secretion and sensitivity, modulation of glucose metabolism enzymes, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities, and impacts on carbohydrate digestion and absorption. This review aims to provide an in-depth synthesis of current knowledge to inform future research and clinical applications of these natural agents in glycemic control.

Keywords : Stevia Rebaudiana, Monk Fruit, Licorice Root, Glycyrrhiza Glabra, Mulberry Leaf, Fenugreek, Antidiabetic Agent, Herbal Medicine, Hypoglycemic Effect.

References :

  1. Sharma RD, Raghuram TC, Rao NS. Effect of fenugreek seeds on blood glucose and serum lipids in type I diabetes. Eur J Clin Nutr. 1990;44(4):301–6
  2. Gupta A, Gupta R, Lal B. Effect of Trigonella foenum-graecum (fenugreek) seeds on glycaemic control and insulin resistance in type 2 diabetes mellitus: a double blind placebo controlled study. J Assoc Physicians India. 2001;49:1057–61
  3. Raghuram TC, Sharma RD, Sivakumar B, Sahay BK. Effect of fenugreek seeds on intravenous glucose disposition in non-insulin dependent diabetic patients. Phytother Res. 1994;8(2):83–6Bordia A, Verma SK, Srivastava KC. Effect of ginger (Zingiber officinale Rosc.) and fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum L.) on blood lipids, blood sugar and platelet aggregation in patients with coronary artery disease. Prostaglandins Leukot Essent Fatty Acids. 1997;56(5):379–84
  4. Neelakantan N, Narayanan M, de Souza RJ, van Dam RM. Effect of fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum L.) intake on glycemia: a meta-analysis of clinical trials. Nutr J. 2014;13:7.
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Diabetes mellitus (DM) remains one of the most prevalent metabolic disorders worldwide, imposing significant health and economic burdens. Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), characterized by insulin resistance and impaired insulin secretion, requires long-term management strategies to control hyperglycemia and prevent complications. Conventional pharmacotherapies, while effective, are associated with adverse effects and limitations that have spurred interest in natural alternatives. Plant-derived bioactive compounds offer promising adjunct or alternative therapeutic options due to their multifaceted mechanisms and generally favorable safety profiles. This comprehensive review focuses on five botanicals— Stevia rebaudiana (stevia), Siraitia grosvenorii (monk fruit), Glycyrrhiza glabra (licorice root), Morus alba (mulberry leaf), and Trigonella foenum-graecum (fenugreek)—all widely studied for their antidiabetic properties. We explore their phytochemical constituents, molecular mechanisms of action, preclinical and clinical evidence, and potential integration into diabetes management. Emphasis is placed on their effects on insulin secretion and sensitivity, modulation of glucose metabolism enzymes, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities, and impacts on carbohydrate digestion and absorption. This review aims to provide an in-depth synthesis of current knowledge to inform future research and clinical applications of these natural agents in glycemic control.

Keywords : Stevia Rebaudiana, Monk Fruit, Licorice Root, Glycyrrhiza Glabra, Mulberry Leaf, Fenugreek, Antidiabetic Agent, Herbal Medicine, Hypoglycemic Effect.

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