Evidence-Based Human Clinical Trials on Antidiabetic Herbal Remedies Commonly Used in the Middle East

Abstract

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a prevalent metabolic disorder with significant health and economic impacts. This review examined Middle Eastern herbs as alternative T2DM treatments in human randomised controlled trials and meta-analyses. A comprehensive PubMed search was conducted for human randomised controlled trials and meta-analyses on black seed (Nigella sativa), fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum), ginger (Zingiber officinale), cinnamon (Cinnamomum cassia) and curcumin (Curcuma longa), with at least 6 human studies per herb. The results revealed that N. sativa and fenugreek improved glycaemic control and lipid profiles, while ginger regulated carbohydrate metabolism enzymes. Curcumin was found to control blood sugar and lipids through its antioxidant effects, although its bioavailability remains a challenge. Cinnamon enhanced glucose transport and enzyme inhibition. Notably, N. sativa demonstrated consistent positive effects across studies. These findings highlight the potential of medicinal herbs as alternative therapies in T2DM management, emphasising the need for further research in this field, considering relevant safety profiles.