Devdaru–Manjishthadi Kwatha: An Evidence-Based Review Of Phytoconstituents For Diabetes Control

Diabetes Mellitus (Madhumeha) is a complex and rapidly growing global health challenge, projected to affect 853 million adults by 2050. Ayurveda views Madhumeha as a systemic metabolic disorder involving multiple Doshas and tissues, providing a framework for complementary approaches to care. This review presents an evidence-based rationale for a proposed polyherbal decoction, Devdaru–Manjishthadi Kwatha, combining four potent Ayurvedic herbs: Devdaru (Cedrus deodara), Manjishtha (Rubia cordifolia), Bala (Sida cordifolia), and Gokshura (Tribulus terrestris). Each herb was selected based on its classical relevance in managing metabolic imbalances and contemporary pharmacological evidence relevant to diabetes. Individually, these herbs demonstrate significant antidiabetic and antioxidant properties. C. deodara extract exhibits glucose-lowering effects and contains potent antioxidant lignans. R. cordifolia reduces blood glucose in diabetic models and inhibits lipid peroxidation. S. cordifolia, traditionally Ojovardhak (Ojas-enhancing), improves diabetic neuropathy and shows antihyperglycemic activity. T. terrestris lowers serum glucose and triglycerides, partly via steroidal saponins, and inhibits gluconeogenesis. Collectively, these data suggest that this proposed combination offers a scientifically rational, multi-targeted approach to addressing the diverse pathological factors of Madhumeha.