Anti-Diabetic Effects of Plants Belonging to the Genus Senna: Pharmacology, Mechanism of Action and Phytochemistry

The genus Senna belongs to the family Leguminosae in the major group of flowering plants (Angiosperms). Members of this genus are widely distributed in different parts of the world and are mostly used for the traditional treatment of diabetes mellitus. Scientific investigations have confirmed the anti-diabetic effects. In this chapter, all the in vitro and in vivo anti-diabetic studies conducted on members of Senna genus are critically reviewed with emphasis on the pharmacology, mechanism of antidiabetic action and identified bioactive anti-diabetic agents in the plants. Among the members of the genus, Senna auriculata, S. fistula and S. tora are perhaps the most investigated. Other members of the genus investigated for anti-diabetic effects are S. occidentalis, S. surratensis, S. angustifolia, S. singueana and S. siamae. Most of the plants demonstrated potent anti-diabetic activity which is mediated via mechanisms similar to conventional anti-diabetic drugs. Unfortunately, only few studies were reported on the pure bioactive anti-diabetic agents but groups of phytochemicals were postulated (as bioactive agents) for most of the studies. Findings from the in vitro and in vivo anti-diabetic studies would be of interest for further research and subsequent standardization (and commercialization) of anti-diabetic herbal remedy from some members of Senna genus.

Keywords: Senna, Cassia, diabetes, anti-diabetic, antihyperglycemic.