A comprehensive review on Thankuni (Centella asiatica) as an herbal remedy in diabetes mellitus and wound healing

Abstract

Thankuni or Centella asiatica (CA) is a nutritionally rich and traditionally revered medicinal herb. It contains many bioactive phytochemicals, namely Asiatic acid, Asiaticoside, Madecassic acid, Madecassoside etc. The herb possesses anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-hyperglycemic and anti-ulcer properties. Such effects may be useful for the treatment of diabetes mellitus and its complications. Wound healing may also be promoted by such properties. Thus the present article targets to summarize the role of Thankuni in the treatment of diabetes and wound healing and highlight the possible mechanisms underlying such effects. Relevant articles were identified using PubMed and Google Scholar. Other authentic sources were also used. CA may stimulate insulin secretion, inhibit carbohydrate digestion, absorption and regulate the major metabolic pathways of carbohydrate in the body leading to normoglycaemia. Additionally it has the ability to promote wound healing and inhibit scar tissue formation. Such evidences corroborate the effectiveness of CA for treating these conditions.