Plant based bioactive compounds are the secondary metabolites that are
produced by them to perform their non-essential functions. They provide an ample
source of nutraceuticals and therapeutics for humans. The research on these compounds
is on trend these days and most of the research suggests their importance as therapeutic
agents and as prophylactic agents against many diseases. Easy accessibility, and better
efficacy with lesser adverse effects of bioactive compounds have made their research
trending. Diabetes is the oldest known metabolic disease which requires a multimodal
treatment approach for its management. The available drugs and treatment options are
still unable to control the complications and economic burden faced by the patients.
Many plants have been used traditionally for the management of diabetes worldwide.
Now it has been well established that the plants provide a rich reservoir of bioactive
compounds which have the potential to modulate various pathways involved in the
regulation of blood glucose. This chapter discusses the common groups of plant
derived bioactive compounds, their sources, and their mechanistic antidiabetic role.
Keywords: Bioactive compounds, Diabetes, Medicinal plants, Phytocompounds, Therapeutic potential.
