IN VITRO ANTIDIABETIC ACTIVITY OF ESSENTIAL OIL CYMBOPOGON WINTERIANUS

Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the in vitro antidiabetic activity of the essential oil (EO) extracted from Cymbopogon winterianus leaves, as well as characterize its chemical composition. Methods: The EO was obtained via hydrodistillation from leaves collected in Maranhão, Brazil. Its chemical composition was analyzed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and gas chromatography with flame ionization detection (GC-FID). The antidiabetic potential was assessed through in vitro inhibitory assays against the enzymes α-amylase and α-glucosidase. Results: Chemical analysis identified multiple compounds, revealing a unique chemotype dominated by isopulegol, geraniol, and bornyl acetate as the major constituents. The EO exhibited significant inhibitory activity against both α-amylase and α-glucosidase. This bioactivity is attributed to the presence of these bioactive monoterpenes and their associated properties. Conclusion: Cymbopogon winterianus essential oil demonstrated notable in vitro antidiabetic activity by inhibiting key carbohydrate-digesting enzymes, highlighting its potential as a source of natural nutraceuticals for managing type 2 diabetes. Further studies, including in vivo assays and clinical trials, are necessary to confirm its efficacy, bioavailability, and safety for therapeutic application.