Ancient Chinese medicine could treat diabetes

Scientists have found that an extract from the fruit of a gardenia could be effective in treating type 2 diabetes. The extract has been used for Centuries as part of traditional Chinese medicine .
The team, working from the Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Centre and Harvard Medical School, published their results in the journal Cell Metabolism . They reportedly found a chemical within gardenia that blocks the action of an enzyme that inhibits the production of insulin. The scientists involved in the study think that it could lead to the creation of new drugs.
Diabetes experts voiced their opinions on the matter, and although hopeful reminded patients that work was at an early stage. A sensible and healthy diet, coupled with regular exercise, was still the most advisable treatment method.
The enzyme that the researchers focused on was called uncoupling protein 2 (UCP2), and it serves to prevent the production of insulin in the body. One of the team suggested using fruit extracts from Gardenia Jasminoides Ellis, commonly used in traditional Chinese Medicine. Genepin was then recognised as the active compound in blocking UCP2 action.
Further investigation is needed, and will be eagerly awaited.