Evaluation of Antidiabetic Potential of a Standardized Polyherbal Formulation via Multitargeted Mechanisms in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a multifactorial metabolic disorder characterized by chronic hyperglycemia, insulin resistance, impaired insulin secretion, oxidative stress, inflammation, and dyslipidemia. Conventional antidiabetic therapies primarily target single pathways and are often associated with adverse effects and reduced long-term efficacy. In this context, poly-herbal formulations, based on the principles of traditional medicine, offer a multitargeted therapeutic approach by acting on multiple pathological pathways simultaneously. The present study aimed to evaluate the antidiabetic potential of a standardized polyherbal formulation through multitargeted mechanisms in experimentally induced type 2 diabetes mellitus. The formulation was prepared using selected medicinal plants with documented antidiabetic activity and standardized based on phytochemical markers. In vitro assays were conducted to assess α-amylase and α-glucosidase inhibitory activities, antioxidant potential, and insulin sensitizing effects. In vivo antidiabetic activity was evaluated in high-fat diet and streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats by assessing fasting blood glucose levels, oral glucose tolerance, lipid profile, insulin levels, oxidative stress markers, and histopathological changes in pancreatic tissue. Polyherbal formulation demonstrated significant antidiabetic activity by improving glycemic control, enhancing insulin sensitivity, reducing oxidative stress, and correcting dyslipidemia. These findings suggest that the standardized polyherbal formulation exerts its antidiabetic effects via a multitargeted mechanism and may serve as a promising alternative or adjunct therapy for the management of type 2 diabetes mellitus.