A Systematic Review on Effect of Scoparia Dulcis on Alterations in Antioxidant Status, Oxidative Damage in Diabetes and Other Pharmacological Activities

Abstract

Oxidative stress is implicated in the pathogenesis of diabetic complications. Diabetes mellitus is presently a burden not only on the individuals affected by the disease but also on society, particularly the national health system of all the countries. The war against diabetes through the development of new drugs is an ongoing continuous process. Despite many advances in the development of oral hypoglycemic agents, an ideal drug for treating diabetes mellitus is still a distant reality. As pointed out by World Health Organisation (WHO), prevention of diabetes and its complications is not only a major challenge for the future, but essential if health for all is to be attainable target. WHO study groups emphasize strongly in this regard the optimal, rational uses of traditional and natural indigenous medicine. The study of such medicinal plants might offer a natural key to unlock diabetologists pharmacy for the future. Indian traditional medicines have a long history to treat diabetic mellitus (DM) by the herbs and herbal extracts. Scoparia dulcis, also known as sweet broom weed, is a perennial herb which is commonly found in tropical and subtropical regions. In these regions, the fresh or dried plant has traditionally been used as one of remedies for diabetes and various diseases. The plant is abundantly found in many countries and can be easily grown and cultivated, should there be a need for mass production. The whole plant is used for ailments like diarrhea, stomach-ache, kidney stones, kidney problems, and fever. S. dulcis is a rich source of flavones, terpenes and steroids S. dulcis is one of the traditional antidiabetic herbs. There were so many research work done on its antidiabetic properties. S. dulcis has been used by human for centuries as a medicinal herb. S. dulcis has also been shown to exhibit analgesic, antimalarial, hepatoprotective, sedative, hypnotic, antiulcer, antisickling, and antimicrobial activities. Given this evidence, it may be concluded that S. dulcis could be promoted among the masses as an alternative and complementary therapy for diabetes, provided further scientific studies on the toxicological and pharmacological aspects are carried out through either in vivo or clinical means.