Gynura divaricata in the Modulation of Glucose and Lipid Metabolic Disorders: Research Advances and Translational Challenges

Glucose and lipid metabolism disorders are closely associated with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), obesity, hyperlipidemia, and metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD). Gynura divaricata (L.) DC., traditionally consumed as both a food and folk medicine, has attracted increasing attention for its potential regulatory effects on glucose and lipid metabolism. Existing in vitro and in vivo studies suggest that G. divaricata extracts and candidate bioactive constituents, including flavonoids, polysaccharides, phenolic acids, and peptides, may improve metabolic phenotypes such as hyperglycemia, dyslipidemia, and insulin resistance. These effects may involve the regulation of intestinal carbohydrate hydrolysis, insulin signaling, gut microbial homeostasis, pancreatic β-cell function, lipid metabolism, oxidative stress, and chronic inflammation. However, human evidence remains limited, and most studies have investigated compound formulations or combined interventions, which are insufficient to establish the clinical efficacy of G. divaricata as a standalone preparation. This review summarizes the major bioactive constituents of G. divaricata, reviews the current evidence for its glucose-lowering and lipid-regulating effects and related antioxidant and anti-inflammatory mechanisms, and discusses the limitations of existing research. This study aimed to provide a reference for elucidating the mechanisms by which G. divaricata regulates glucose and lipid metabolism and for its future clinical translation.