A team of researchers has identified several medicinal plants on Brahmayoni Hill in Gaya, Bihar. One significant discovery is Gymnema sylvestre (commonly known as Gurmar), recognized for its anti-diabetic properties. This plant has been utilized by the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) in the development of the anti-diabetic drug BGR-34.
Medicinal Properties of Gurmar
- Anti-Diabetic Effects: Gurmar contains gymnemic acid, which reduces blood sugar levels by blocking receptor sites in the intestinal lining, thereby decreasing cravings for sweetness and sugar absorption.
- Additional Benefits: The plant also contains flavonoids and saponins:
- Flavonoids: Provide antioxidant properties.
- Saponins: Help lower cholesterol levels.
Historical and Recent Uses
- Traditional Knowledge: Brahmayoni Hill has been a source of medicinal herbs used by traditional healers for centuries.
- Modern Applications: Gurmar is a key ingredient in BGR-34, an anti-diabetic formulation developed by CSIR and marketed by Aimil Pharma. This herbal medicine also includes other phyto-ingredients like Daruharidra, Giloy, Vijaysar, Manjishtha, and Fenugreek.
Clinical Validation
Research by the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Delhi, confirmed that BGR-34 effectively reduces both obesity and blood sugar levels and improves metabolic health.
Future Directions
- Research Recommendations: Researchers have highlighted the need for further studies on Gurmar, noting its potential as a valuable therapeutic option, similar to the first diabetes drug, Metformin, which was derived from Galega.
- Sustainability Efforts: They advocate for involving local populations in cultivating frequently used medicinal herbs to ensure their preservation and availability for future generations.
Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs):
1. What is Gymnema sylvestre commonly known as?
- A) Daruharidra
- B) Gurmar
- C) Giloy
- D) Vijaysar
- Answer: B) Gurmar
2. What compound in Gurmar helps reduce blood sugar levels?
- A) Flavonoids
- B) Saponins
- C) Gymnemic acid
- D) Fenugreek
- Answer: C) Gymnemic acid
3. Which organization developed the anti-diabetic drug BGR-34?
- A) All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS)
- B) Aimil Pharma
- C) Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR)
- D) Magadh University
- Answer: C) Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR)
4. What did the 2022 study by AIIMS, Delhi, find about BGR-34?
- A) It only reduces blood sugar levels.
- B) It is effective in reducing obesity and improving metabolic health.
- C) It is ineffective in managing diabetes.
- D) It contains no significant phyto-ingredients.
- Answer: B) It is effective in reducing obesity and improving metabolic health.
5. What is one of the recommendations made by the researchers for Gurmar?
- A) To replace it with synthetic drugs.
- B) To stop its use in traditional medicine.
- C) To conduct more in-depth research.
- D) To decrease its cultivation.
- Answer: C) To conduct more in-depth research.