Abstract

PHARMACOLOGICAL PROPERTIES AND PHYTOCHEMICAL OF GYMNEMA SYLVESTRE (GURMAR): A REVIEW

Jyoti Damor*, Meenakshi Kumawat, Jaya Kachchhwaha, Atul Parmar Rajendra Parsad Purvia and Chandan Sing

Abstract

Gymnema sylvestre (Asclepiadaceae), commonly known as gurmar or sugar destroyer is a woody climber, indigenous to India. The climber is seen in all parts of India and well known for its sugar destroying or antidiabetic properties. The plant is said to be a rich source of saponins, triterpenoids and steroids. Leaves are largely employed as antidiabetic, antiobese, antimicrobials, anti-inflammatory etc. G. sylvestre has good prospects in the treatment of diabetes as it shows positive effects on blood sugar homeostasis, controls sugar cravings, and promotes regeneration of pancreas. The herbal extract is used in dietary supplements since it reduces body weight, blood cholesterol, and triglyceride levels and holds great prospects in dietary as well as pharmacological applications. This review explores the transition of a traditional therapeutic to a modern contemporary medication with an overview of phytochemistry and pharmacological activities of the herb and its phytoconstituents.

Keywords: Gymnema sylvestre, Gurmar, Asclepiadaceae, physicochemical, phytochemical and pharmacological. Gymnema Sylvestre, sweet destroyer.