NIN scientists develop five-spice extract to combat diabetes complications

Scientists at Hyderabad’s National Institute of Nutrition have developed a five-spice Poly-Herbal Extract that may help prevent serious diabetes complications. Preclinical studies show it can reduce cataracts, kidney damage and nerve disorders, with human clinical trials planned next.

Hyderabad: A unique mix of five common Indian spices, all diffused in exact proportions into one single extract, developed by scientists from Hyderabad-based National Institute of Nutrition (NIN), is promising to shield the body from the devastating secondary complications of diabetes.

The formulation, an extract of ginger, cinnamon, black pepper, amla, and turmeric, a result of a decade-long research by the biochemistry division, headed by senior scientist Dr G Bhanuprakash Reddy, has shown significant promise in preventing kidney failure, vision loss, and nerve damage in preclinical studies.

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While most existing diabetic treatments focus on lowering blood glucose levels, the team at NIN’s Biochemistry division has spent its time looking at what happens after sugar enters the system.

High blood sugar triggers biological pathways like oxidative stress and the accumulation of Advanced Glycation End-products (AGEs), which are silent killers that lead to cataract, neuropathy (nerve damage) and nephropathy, which is permanent damage to kidneys.

Dubbed as Poly-Herbal Extract (PHE), the special formulation specifically targets these specific pathways. Essentially, the extraction is based on the abilities of ginger and turmeric to reduce chronic low-grade inflammation. The Amla and Black Pepper have the ability to combat oxidative stress and improve nutrient absorption and Cinnamon aids in metabolic regulation.

The study found that the formulation specifically inhibits Aldose Reductase, an enzyme responsible for sorbitol buildup in the eyes and nerves, which is a primary cause of diabetic cataracts and pain.

Following successful trials in animal models, according to senior authorities from NIN, the scientists are now moving the extract to human clinical trials. These trials will evaluate the safety and efficacy of the extract as a complementary therapy. Before moving toward human application, the formulation underwent years of rigorous testing on obese rat models at NIN.

These preclinical studies provided the proof of concept that the scientific community required. The five-spice extract effectively arrested the progression of cataracts in the animal models by blocking the destructive accumulation of sorbitol in the eye lens.

Furthermore, the treated groups showed a significant reduction in scarring of the kidney and lower levels of protein leakage in their urine compared to the control groups. These studies at NINS proved that the unique extract from Indian herbs does more than just manage sugar; it physically protects the biological infrastructure of the body.