GC-MS used to analyse Indian Ayurvedic medicines

Plants used in the traditional Indian Ayurvedic medicine system have been analysed using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS).

A total of 17 plants associated with combating blood sugar abnormalities involved in diabetes were investigated by scientists at the University of Pune.

Using GC-MS, they looked specifically at the plant extracts that exhibited 50 per cent or greater inhibition potential on porcine pancreatic alpha-amylase (PPA).

From an overall cohort of 126 extracts, three isopropanol samples showed the necessary level of inhibition.

The GC-MS analysis uncovered phytochemicals including tannins, alkaloids, flavonoids, steroids, saponins and cardiac glycosides in the extracts.

"Results suggest that extracts of Linum usitatisumum, Morus alba and Ocimum tenuiflorum act effectively as PPA inhibitors, leading to a reduction in starch hydrolysis and hence, eventually, to lowered glucose levels," the scientists write.

Consequently, they suggest further research into the plant extracts could help to yield new therapies for Type 2 diabetes in particular.

The periodical focuses on pharmaceutical treatments that can either accompany or replace conventional Western medicines.