The Antiglycation Ability of Typical Medicinal Plants, Natural and Synthetic Compounds: A Review

Given the prevalence of diabetes and the increasing number of diabetics, it is essential to find medicines to decrease the chronic complications of diabetes. Several studies have demonstrated that chronic hyperglycemia and its complications are directly related to protein glycation. Thus, identifying natural inhibitors to stop glycation of proteins may play a crucial role in managing the chronic complications of diabetes. Currently, various natural and synthetic compounds with anti-glycation attributes have been reported. The use of natural compounds in herbs (medicinal and non-medicinal) may be of particular importance due to fewer side effects and a wide range of therapeutic properties. Accordingly, this mini-review provides a list of common natural medicines and synthetic compounds with anti-glycation activity. As well, it provides brief information on the formation of advanced glycosylated end products (AGEs), their side effects, and glycation prevention mechanisms.