Hypoglycemic Effect of Omani Thyme: A Follow-up Study
Badryia Al-Rahbi, Amal A.W Sallam, Taimoora Al-Subhi, Azher Al-Habsi, Ibtisam Al-Lawati, Najwa Al-Jahdhami, Husameldin El-NourIntroduction:
Diabetes Mellitus (DM) is a complex metabolic condition that can significantly impact overall health and influence the lifestyle of those affected. Herbal remedies have been found to produce an anti-diabetic effect via the action of phytochemical compounds. Another considered approach is to stop the action of α-amylase and α-glucosidase enzymes, which are responsible for the breakdown of starch to more simple sugars, using plant products such as thyme vulgaris. The aim of this study is to investigate the effect of Omani thyme on diabetic patients who receive conventional anti-diabetic medications and to confirm the findings of a pilot study which was aimed to assess the potential blood sugar-lowering effects of thyme in individuals with type 2 diabetes.
Methods:
Twenty Omani diabetic patients (group 2), who are on DM conventional medications, were administered 1000 ml of Omani thyme tea, divided into 3 equal portions and consumed prior to each meal daily for 6 months. Body weight, blood glucose levels, and glycosylated haemoglobin (HbA1c) were recorded pre- and post-intervention. A control group of 20 Omani DM patients, who are prescribed conventional anti- diabetic medications, did not receive any thyme (group 1).
Results:
Post-intervention fasting blood glucose serum levels of group 2 subjects treated with Omani thyme were significantly lower (p < 0.05) as compared to pre-intervention levels. Also, HbA1c serum levels of the group 2 subjects treated with Omani Thyme were significantly lower (p < 0.05) as compared to pre-intervention measurements. No significant change was found in the body weights of the subjects of group 2 post-intervention compared to the pre-intervention (p =0.07). Also, there was no significant change in body weights when compared to group 1 (p =0.11).
Discussion:
The observed reductions in fasting blood glucose and HbA1c after six months of Omani thyme tea intake may be explained by mechanisms reported in previous research. Thymus vulgaris contains bioactive phytochemicals, particularly thymol, carvacrol, and flavonoids, that may contribute to antidiabetic effects by improving insulin sensitivity in peripheral tissues, thereby enhancing cellular glucose uptake and reducing circulating blood glucose levels.
Conclusion:
This study showed that after six months of Omani thyme (vulgaris) tea consumption, participants showed notable reductions in both fasting and post-prandial blood glucose levels. A decrease in HbA1c levels was also recorded, indicating improved long-term blood sugar control.