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The Therapeutic Effect and Mechanism of Traditional Chinese Medicine in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus and Its Complications

Summary

Traditional Chinese Medicine uses various herbs and plant compounds to treat Type 2 diabetes by improving how the body controls blood sugar and protects the pancreas. Many common TCM herbs like ginseng, rehmannia, and coptis work through natural mechanisms that reduce inflammation, protect cells from damage, and improve how the body uses insulin. Research shows TCM may also help prevent or reduce diabetes-related complications affecting the eyes, kidneys, and nerves. These herbal treatments offer potential benefits with fewer side effects compared to conventional medications.

Background

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a chronic metabolic disease affecting global health. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) offers a comprehensive approach to diabetes treatment with potential advantages over conventional therapies. TCM has been documented since ancient times, with classical formulas described by Zhang Zhongjing in the Han Dynasty.

Objective

This review examines the therapeutic effects and mechanisms of Traditional Chinese Medicine in treating Type 2 diabetes and its complications. The study focuses on understanding how TCM influences glucose metabolism, pancreatic function, and prevention of diabetic complications through modern scientific methodologies.

Results

TCM demonstrates significant anti-diabetic effects through multiple mechanisms including PI3K/AKT and AMPK pathway activation. TCM is effective for diabetic nephropathy, retinopathy, neuropathy, cardiomyopathy, and peripheral angiopathy. Mechanisms include antioxidation, apoptosis regulation, autophagy enhancement, and glucose/lipid metabolism improvement.

Conclusion

TCM offers innovative therapeutic potential for diabetes and its complications through multiple pharmacological mechanisms. TCM could serve as a complement to conventional diabetes prevention and treatment strategies, with potential for development of more effective formulations based on modern pharmacological research.
  • Published in:Diabetes, Metabolic Syndrome and Obesity: Targets and Therapy,
  • Study Type:Narrative Review,
  • Source: PMID: 40391051
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