Effect of Moringa Leaf Capsules on Glycemic Control of Type 2 Diabetic Patients- an Interventional Study

Few human studies are reported on Moringa Oleifera (MO), with most trials reported on animals. Based on human studies, the plant has been proposed to decrease glucose levels by increasing insulin secretion and sensitivity and by inhibiting amylase and glucosidase activities proven by animal studies, additional proposed mechanisms of action include increased glucose uptake in the muscle and liver, inhibition of glucose uptake in the intestine, and decreased gluconeogenesis in the liver.

Rationale of this study is to observe the effects of Moringa Oleifera (MO) capsules, a herbal medicine, on lowering Hba1c levels and compare it with the first line drug so that it can be recommended in the guidelines as a supportive treatment option.

A few human studies are reported on the use of Moringa Oleifera (MO), most of trials are reported on animals. In Pakistan no such study is available but people in rural areas take it as a myth to treat different diseases.

Moringa Oleifera (MO) leaves are non-toxic. This has been confirmed by laboratory experiments such as The aqueous extract of leaves was administered orally to 30 male Wistar rats and even in doses of 2000 mg/kg no mortality ensued. Sub-acute toxicity was assessed by administering daily doses of up to 1600 mg kg to male rats, and no signs of serious toxicity were observed on biochemical or haematological tests, or on histopathology of the organs.

According to the International Diabetes Federation, in the year 2022, 26.7% of adults in Pakistan are a victim of diabetes mellitus, making the total number of cases approximately 33,000,000. This alarmingly high number poses not only an enormous risk of health complications but also a huge financial load on patients. A substantial proportion of patients' income is spent on diabetes care. The mean annual direct cost per patient with diabetes was estimated to be 80,000 Rupees. Medications accounted for the largest share (60.4%) of this cost. The WHO has supported the evaluation of medicinal plants and herbs for the management of certain chronic conditions. In recent years there has been exponential growth in the field of herbal medicines and the demand for these is increasing both in developing and developed countries because of their natural origin, fewer side effects and low cost.