Diabetes-Related Mechanisms of Action Involved in the Therapeutic Effect of Croton Species: A Systematic Review

Over the years, ethnopharmacological and phytochemical investigations have been conducted to understand potential effects of Croton genus on several diseases. It has revealed that these terpenoid-rich species traditionally used treat gastrointestinal diseases, heal wounds, relieve pain a wide range therapeutic effects; however, those diabetes, as well their action mechanisms, not reviewed so far. Therefore, main objective this review was compile all shown pharmacological against diabetes describe mechanisms. Through search literature, 17 with hypoglycemic, antihyperglycemic, antilipidemic, antihypertensive, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory were found. Among mechanisms by which they exerted inhibition α-glucosidases, promotion insulin secretion, increase in glucose uptake. Interestingly, it found some them may antihyperglycemic properties, although there no reports support traditional use. Moreover, others only presented studies hypoglycemic effect fasting, further works are encouraged involved lowering fasting blood levels, such hepatic production, especially for C. cajucara, cuneatus, gratissimus var. gratissimus, guatemalensis, membranaceus. is expected contributes plant science knowledge genus, can be future references identification development new molecules/phytomedicines help treatment diabetes.