Development and Optimization of Polyherbal Formulations Using Proven Anti-Diabetic Medicinal Plants: Phytochemical Profiling and In Vivo Evaluation

Abstract

Abhilasha Gupta and Arun Sharma*

Diabetes mellitus is a long-term metabolic disease marked by sustained high blood sugar levels and related health problems. While synthetic anti-diabetic agents are effective, they often cause side effects and do not address multiple pathophysiological targets. Polyherbal formulations offer synergistic therapeutic benefits by combining bioactive compounds from different plants. However, the lack of optimized and standardized formulations limits their clinical use. To develop, optimize, and evaluate a polyherbal formulation containing proven anti-diabetic plants, followed by phytochemical profiling, in vivo efficacy testing, and quality standardization. Three medicinal plants with documented hypoglycemic activity—Gymnema sylvestre (plant leaves), Momordica charantia (plant fruits), and Trigonella foenum- graecum (plant seeds)—were selected, authenticated, and extracted using a hydroalcoholic method. Optimization of the formulation ratio was performed using response surface methodology (RSM) to achieve maximum glucose-lowering effect. Phytochemical analysis was carried out using qualitative screening and quantitative HPLC profiling for marker compounds. Streptozotocin-induced diabetic Wistar strains were used to investigate the in vivo anti-diabetic efficacy over 28 days. Biochemical parameters including basal glucose level, glucose tolerance assay, circulating insulin, serum lipid panel, and oxidative stress markers were evaluated. Physicochemical parameters and chromatographic fingerprinting were performed for quality control. The optimized polyherbal formulation demonstrated a significantly greater lowering basal blood sugar level and Ameliorated glucose homeostasis compared to individual plant extracts (p < 0.05). Insulinemia, lipidogram and antioxidant enzyme activities showed substantial improvement. HPLC analysis confirmed the presence of gymnemic acids, charantin, and diosgenin as key bioactive markers. Quality control parameters met pharmacopoeial standards. The developed and optimized polyherbal formulation exhibited potent anti- diabetic activity with improved biochemical and oxidative stress profiles. Standardization ensures reproducibility and potential for clinical application, indicating its promise as a safe, effective, and multi-target herbal intervention for diabetes management.

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