Effectiveness of Combination Therapy with Metformin and Local Herbs in Controlling Blood Sugar in Type 2 Diabetes Patients

Intan Putri; Clusila  Hanna

Authors

Intan Putri Universitas Syiah Kuala, Aceh, Indonesia Author
Clusila Hanna Universitas Syiah Kuala, Aceh, Indonesia Author

Keywords:

Blood Sugar, Combination Therapy, Local Herbs, Metformin, Type 2 Diabetes

Abstract

Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) remains a significant global health burden, with challenges in achieving optimal glycemic control using conventional therapies alone. Metformin is the standard first-line treatment; however, increasing interest in complementary and alternative medicine has prompted investigation into the adjunctive use of traditional herbal remedies. This study evaluates the effectiveness of combination therapy using metformin and selected local herbs in controlling blood glucose levels in T2DM patients. A randomized controlled trial was conducted over 12 weeks involving 120 adult T2DM patients divided into two groups: one receiving metformin monotherapy (500 mg twice daily), and the other receiving metformin combined with a standardized preparation of local antidiabetic herbs (including Gymnema sylvestre, Momordica charantia, and Coccinia indica). Fasting Blood Glucose (FBG), Postprandial Blood Glucose (PPBG), and HbA1c levels were measured at baseline, 6 weeks, and 12 weeks. Adverse effects and patient adherence were also monitored. At 12 weeks, the combination therapy group showed a significantly greater reduction in HbA1c (mean reduction: 1.4%) compared to the metformin-only group (mean reduction: 0.9%) (p<0.05). FBG and PPBG levels also improved more markedly in the combination group. No severe adverse events were reported, and adherence was high across both groups. The addition of local herbal therapy to standard metformin treatment may enhance glycemic control in T2DM patients. This suggests potential for integrative approaches in diabetes management, warranting further long-term studies to confirm efficacy and safety.

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