Foeniculum vulgare (Fennel): A comprehensive review of its anti-diabetic properties

Abstract

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) emerges as a global health crisis and is characterized by hyperglycemia, insulin resistance, and oxidative stress. Conventional treatments for T2DM often have limitations, thus prompting interest in natural alternatives like fennel. This review explores fennel's potential anti-diabetic properties, focusing on its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Fennel contains various bioactive compounds, including flavonoids, phenolic acids, and volatile oils, known for their antioxidant properties. These compounds can neutralize free radicals and reduce oxidative stress, which plays a crucial role in T2DM. Additionally, fennel's anti-inflammatory effects may help mitigate the chronic inflammation associated with T2DM. Preclinical studies have demonstrated fennel's ability to lower blood glucose levels, improve insulin sensitivity, and reduce oxidative stress in diabetic animals. These findings suggest that fennel may be a promising natural agent for managing T2DM. However, further research is needed to fully understand its mechanisms of action and to evaluate its efficacy and safety in human clinical trials.

Keywords

Foeniculum vulgare / Fennel / Diabetes / Trans-anethole / Oxidative stress

Conflict of interest statement

The authors declare that there is no conflict of interest.

Declaration

During the preparation of this work, the authors used ChatGPT to improve language in some places. After using this tool, the authors reviewed and edited the content as needed and took full responsibility for the content of the publication.

Funding

The study received no extramural funding.

Data availability statement

The data supporting the findings of this study are available from the corresponding authors upon request.

Authors’ contributions

NHN searched the literature and wrote the manuscript. JG is the guarantor, who reviewed, edited and supervised the entire work.

Publisher’s note

The Publisher of the Journal remains neutral with regard to jurisdictional claims in published maps and institutional affiliations.

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