Therapeutic Prospects of Emblica officinalis in Diabetes Mellitus: A Systematic Review of In Vivo Studies

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a metabolic disorder characterized by elevated blood glucose levels due to impaired insulin secretion or resistance. With no definitive cure available in conventional medicine, the focus has shifted toward complementary approaches. Emblica officinalis Linn., widely recognized in Ayurvedic texts, has been traditionally used to manage DM. This systematic review aims to evaluate the effectiveness of E. officinalis in the management of DM by analyzing previously conducted preclinical in vivo studies. Relevant data were collected from preclinical in vivo experimental studies published in peer-reviewed journals. Databases searched included PubMed, Google Scholar, SpringerLink, and Link, up to May 2024. Only studies with English titles and abstracts, evaluating the antihyperglycemic and antidiabetic activities of E. officinalis , were included. A total of 154 publications were identified, which underwent a systematic screening and exclusion process based on duplication, relevance, and study type. Out of 154 articles, 145 were excluded due to duplication, in vitro design, review articles, or lack of relevance to the core topic. Ultimately, nine eligible preclinical in vivo studies were selected for this review. All studies reported that E. officinalis demonstrated a significant hypoglycemic effect and effectively regulated blood glucose levels. E. officinalis has shown promising antidiabetic activity in preclinical models, attributed to enhanced insulin secretion from pancreatic β-cells and upregulation of glucose transporter genes ( GLUT-2 and GLUT-4 ). These findings support its potential role in managing DM and warrant further clinical validation.