Polysaccharides based approach for management of diabetes mellitus

Diabetes mellitus is a global health problem without any effective therapeutic approach. Chronic hyperglycemia and oxidative stress are important components for the development of diabetic complications. Over the past few decades, herbal medicines have attracted much attention as potential therapeutic agents in the prevention and treatment of diabetes. Herbal drugs are acts through multiple targets and possess less toxic side effects. Plants are rich source of secondary metabolites like flavonoids, alkaloids, terpenoids, tannins, polysaccharides, phytosterols etc. which have been implicated in several therapeutic approaches for treatment and prevention of diabetic complications. Present work highlights the role of polysaccharides containing plants in amelioration of diabetes and the mechanism of action of polysaccharides. This book will be welcomed by international students and academicians interested in natural medicinal products. It will also be a useful reference for practitioners and pharmacists who require information on herbal approach towards diabetes.