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

## TL;DR

This paper reviews clinical evidence for Middle Eastern herbs as potential treatments for type 2 diabetes.

## Contribution

It provides a systematic analysis of randomized controlled trials and meta-analyses on five commonly used herbs in the region.

## Key findings

- Nigella sativa and fenugreek improved blood sugar and lipid levels in patients.
- Ginger and curcumin showed beneficial effects on metabolism and antioxidant activity.
- Cinnamon was found to help with glucose transport and enzyme inhibition.

## 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.