NIN Scientists Develop Poly-Herbal Extract for Diabetes and Obesity Management
Scientists at the National Institute of Nutrition (NIN) in Hyderabad have achieved a significant breakthrough by developing a poly-herbal extract (PHE) designed to help manage diabetes and obesity. This innovative formulation goes beyond mere glucose control to address long-term complications associated with these conditions.
Targeting Chronic Complications with Natural Ingredients
The extract combines five common and widely available ingredients: ginger, cinnamon, black pepper, amla, and turmeric. Researchers emphasize that this blend is not a random mixture but a scientifically formulated composition aimed at tackling inflammation, oxidative stress, and advanced glycation end products (AGEs). These factors are known to drive chronic complications in diabetes, affecting organs such as the eyes, kidneys, nerves, and heart.
Dr. G Bhanuprakash Reddy, a senior scientist at NIN, explained the development process. "We conducted extensive screening of 150 to 200 herbs and functional foods, focusing on oxidative stress and protein modification, particularly AGEs linked to diabetes complications. From this rigorous evaluation, five herbs emerged as significantly more effective," he said.
Scientific Evidence and Preclinical Success
Each ingredient was first tested individually in animal models before being combined in fixed proportions. Dr. Reddy highlighted the uniqueness of the formulation, stating, "The precise composition is based on solid scientific evidence. Our preclinical studies have shown promising results, indicating that the combined extract can help reduce blood glucose levels and body weight while preventing complications."
It is important to note that this poly-herbal extract is intended as an add-on therapy, not a replacement for existing medications. Current treatments primarily focus on glucose control, but diabetes and obesity often lead to underlying damage that this extract aims to target.
Future Steps and Integrative Health Approach
The formulation has now been standardized at the laboratory level and is set to move into human clinical trials. Dr. Bharati Kulkarni, director of ICMR-NIN, commented on this advancement, saying, "This marks a shift toward integrative health solutions that combine traditional knowledge with modern science."
The clinical trials are expected to run for 9 to 12 months, with a full evaluation anticipated within 18 months. This development represents a hopeful step forward in managing diabetes and obesity more holistically, potentially improving the quality of life for millions affected by these conditions.
