Phytochemical Composition and Antidiabetic Potential of Gymnema sylvestre Extracts and Formulations

Gymnema sylvestre is an Ayurvedic medicinal plant commonly known as gurmar used for the treatment of diabetes. The current study evaluated the phytochemical composition and antidiabetic potential of G. sylvestre leaf extracts and commercially available formulations. The extracts were prepared using ethanol and water through soxhelation. Phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, saponins and triterpenoids in the extracts. Chromatographic and spectroscopic techniques were employed for qualitative and quantitative comparison of the extracts and formulations. The ethanolic extract showed higher total phenolic and flavonoid content compared to the aqueous extract. In vitro antidiabetic assays demonstrated dose-dependent inhibition of alpha amylase and alpha glucosidase enzymes by the extracts. The ethanolic extract exhibited higher antioxidant and antidiabetic activity compared to the aqueous extract and formulations. Overall, the results indicate that G. sylvestre extracts possess phytochemicals and antidiabetic potential that can be further explored.