Metformin herb
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Synergistic Effects of Metformin and Medicinal Herbs
Introduction to Metformin and Herbal Synergy
Metformin, a widely prescribed antidiabetic drug, has been extensively studied for its efficacy in managing type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2D) and other metabolic disorders. Recent research has explored the potential synergistic effects of combining metformin with various medicinal herbs to enhance its therapeutic benefits. This article delves into the combined effects of metformin with Glycyrrhiza uralensis Fischer and Scutellaria baicalensis, highlighting their impact on metabolic health and gut microbiota.
Metformin and Glycyrrhiza uralensis Fischer: Anti-Obesity and Metabolic Benefits
Anti-Obesity Effects
A study investigated the combined effects of metformin and Glycyrrhiza uralensis Fischer (GU) on diet-induced obesity in mice. The combination of metformin and GU (GUM) was found to prevent hepatic steatosis and reduce adiposity by suppressing lipogenesis-related mRNA expression and enzyme activities in the liver. Additionally, GUM upregulated adipocyte mRNA expressions associated with fatty acid oxidation and lipolysis, leading to improved dyslipidemia1.
Glucose Homeostasis and Inflammation
The same study also demonstrated that GUM improved glucose homeostasis by enhancing glucose uptake in tissues and upregulating glycolysis-related mRNA expressions in the liver and muscle through AMP-activated protein kinase activation. Furthermore, GUM increased antioxidant activity in the liver and erythrocytes while decreasing inflammatory cytokine production, thereby reducing inflammation1.
Metformin and Scutellaria baicalensis: Gut Microbiota Modulation and Glucose Tolerance
Gut Microbiota and Glucose Tolerance
Another study focused on the effects of combining metformin with Scutellaria baicalensis (SB) on glucose tolerance in T2D patients. The combination treatment significantly improved glucose tolerance and reduced the relative RNA expression of TNFα, an inflammatory marker. The study also found that SB treatment influenced the gut microbiota composition, particularly increasing the abundance of beneficial bacteria such as Lactobacillus and Akkermansia2.
Potential Side Effects
While the combination of metformin and SB showed promising results, some subjects experienced elevated liver enzyme levels after SB treatment. This suggests that individual variations in gut microbiota composition may influence the safety and efficacy of the treatment2.
Historical Context of Metformin: A Plant-Derived Drug
Origin and Development
Metformin's origins can be traced back to Galega officinalis, a herb traditionally used in Europe for its glucose-lowering properties. The active compound, guanidine, was identified in 1918, leading to the synthesis of metformin and other guanidine derivatives. Despite initial setbacks due to toxicity concerns with other biguanides, metformin was eventually recognized for its ability to manage hyperglycemia without causing weight gain or hypoglycemia3 4.
Broader Therapeutic Applications
Beyond diabetes management, metformin has been found effective in treating conditions such as gestational diabetes, obesity, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and even certain cancers. Its mechanisms include decreasing hepatic glucose production, reducing peripheral insulin resistance, and lowering circulating levels of insulin and insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1)3.
Conclusion
The combination of metformin with medicinal herbs such as Glycyrrhiza uralensis Fischer and Scutellaria baicalensis offers promising synergistic effects in managing metabolic disorders. These combinations not only enhance glucose tolerance and reduce inflammation but also positively influence gut microbiota composition. However, individual variations and potential side effects warrant further investigation to optimize these therapeutic strategies.
Sources and full results
Most relevant research papers on this topic
The Synergistic Action of Metformin and Glycyrrhiza uralensis Fischer Extract Alleviates Metabolic Disorders in Mice with Diet-Induced Obesity
Metformin and Glycyrrhiza uralensis Fischer extract work synergistically to prevent obesity and its complications by improving metabolic disorders and reducing inflammation.
RCT
Animal StudyCombined effects of Scutellaria baicalensis with metformin on glucose tolerance of type 2 diabetes patients via gut microbiota modulation.
Scutellaria baicalensis combined with metformin may improve glucose tolerance, inflammation, and influence gut microbiota composition in type 2 diabetes patients.
RCTMetformin- A Drug of Plant Origin
Metformin is a drug of plant origin that treats various diseases and has potential anti-aging properties.
Metformin: historical overview
Metformin has become the most prescribed glucose-lowering medicine worldwide for managing type 2 diabetes, with its history linked to Galega officinalis, a traditional herbal medicine in Europe.
Rigorous Journal
Highly CitedMetformin in 2019.
Metformin effectively lowers glucose levels in type 2 diabetes patients, but optimal use requires clear understanding of its effects, dosing, safety, and alternatives.
Highly CitedMetformin as Anti-Aging Therapy: Is It for Everyone?
Metformin shows potential in retarding aging and reducing aging-related diseases, but its mechanisms and side effects need further study before it becomes a mainstay anti-aging therapy.
Literature ReviewHighly CitedMetformin and Aging: A Review
Metformin may be an "anti-aging" drug, but concerns exist about vitamin B12 and B6 deficiencies and potential adverse effects on cardiovascular fitness from exercise.
Literature ReviewHighly CitedMetformin alters the gut microbiome of individuals with treatment-naive type 2 diabetes, contributing to the therapeutic effects of the drug
Metformin alters the gut microbiome in individuals with treatment-naive type 2 diabetes, contributing to its therapeutic effects and improving glucose tolerance.
RCT
Very Rigorous JournalHighly CitedMetformin and Its Benefits for Various Diseases
Metformin offers benefits for various diseases and aging, with potential underlying mechanisms still unclear.
Highly CitedMetformin: An Old Drug with New Applications
Metformin may treat nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, cancer, obesity, and metabolic syndrome, but more clinical evidence is needed to confirm its benefits and prevent liver tumorigenesis.
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