In-Vitro Evaluation of comparable enzyme-inhibitory potentials of Aegeline and Charantin, in the context of Diabetes Mellitus management

Diabetes mellitus is considered one of the five leading causes of death in the world affecting an estimated 537 million adults in the year 2021. By 2045, this number is expected to rise to 783 million worldwide. Herbal remedies have been used for centuries to manage diabetes, and many plants have been reported to have antidiabetic activity. Aegle marmelos and Momordica charantia are two plants that have been traditionally used to manage diabetes. The present comparative investigation clearly demonstrates that both Aegeline, an alkaloid from Aegle marmelos, and Charantin, a steroidal saponin from Momordica charantia, exhibit significant and concentration-dependent inhibition of α-amylase activity in vitro. The inhibition profiles of both compounds are remarkably similar, with IC₅₀ values approximating 0.6 mg/mL, suggesting that both compounds have comparable enzyme-inhibitory potentials. Diabetes mellitus management, where regulation of postprandial blood glucose is a critical therapeutic target. α-Amylase inhibition delays the breakdown of complex carbohydrates, thereby slowing glucose absorption and reducing blood sugar spikes after meals. The results indicate that both Aegeline and Charantin can serve as natural α-amylase inhibitors, potentially offering a safer and more holistic alternative to synthetic drugs like acarbose. Moreover, the natural origin of both compounds supports their use in plant-based or herbal formulations, which are increasingly being explored for their lower toxicity, affordability, and multifactorial action. The traditional use of Aegle marmelos and Momordica charantia in Ayurvedic and folk medicine aligns with the current findings and reinforces their therapeutic credibility.