The Use of the Bauhinia forficata L. Plant as a Complementary Treatment for Low-income People with the Condition of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

Introduction: Diabetes Mellitus (DM) is a chronic condition that affects thousands of people around the world, resulting in serious consequences due to increased blood glucose. There are different types of DM, the main ones being type 1, type 2 and gestational, each with its own distinct characteristics. Type 2 DM, in particular, is considered a global epidemic due to its significant increase. The treatment of type 2 DM is broad and can include different approaches, from medicinal agents to complementary therapies, such as herbal medicine. In this context, the plant Bauhinia forficata L. has aroused interest due to its potential hypoglycemic and antioxidant effects, making it a low-cost treatment option for regulating glycemic indices.

Objective: This study aims to analyze the potential of the Bauhinia forficata L. plant as a low-cost method for regulating glycemic indexes in people with type 2 Diabetes Mellitus, seeking to investigate the effectiveness, adverse effects and best way of administering this plant as a complement to conventional diabetes treatment.

Methodology: The study methodology consisted of an exploratory-descriptive bibliographic study with a qualitative approach. The bibliographic survey was carried out in databases such as LILACS, SciELO and PubMed, using inclusion and exclusion criteria to select relevant articles published between 2014 and 2024.

Results and Discussion: Bauhinia forficata L. emerges as a promising option to complement the treatment of type 2 DM, offering a low-cost and potentially effective alternative for regulating glycemic indexes. However, more studies are needed to confirm its long-term safety and effectiveness, as well as determine the best form of administration to maximize its therapeutic benefits.

Conclusion: The flavonoids kaempferol, kaempferitrin and quercetin, present in Bauhinia forficata L., demonstrate hypoglycemic activity. However, it is essential to consider the potential adverse effects of these compounds, such as mutagenicity and DNA damage, particularly at high doses. Although some studies show efficacy in reducing blood glucose levels.