Researchers tested a traditional Chinese herbal formula called Jiangtang Tiaozhi Formula (JTTZF) to see if it could help treat type 2 diabetes caused by obesity. Using laboratory mice and zebrafish, scientists found that the herbal mixture improved how the body handles blood sugar and fat, reduced liver damage from excess fat, and decreased inflammation. The formula appears to work by blocking a specific pathway in cells that normally causes problems in obese people with diabetes. While these early results are promising, more testing in humans is needed before doctors can recommend it as a standard treatment.
The Quick Take
- What they studied: Whether a traditional Chinese herbal medicine formula could help treat type 2 diabetes that develops from obesity by testing it in laboratory animals
- Who participated: The study used mice and zebrafish that were fed high-fat diets to mimic obesity-related diabetes in humans. No human participants were involved in this research.
- Key finding: The herbal formula significantly improved blood sugar control, reduced fat buildup in the liver, and decreased inflammation in the animals tested. It appeared to work by blocking a specific cellular pathway called cGAS-STING that normally causes problems in obesity-related diabetes.
- What it means for you: This research suggests a traditional herbal remedy may help manage obesity-related type 2 diabetes, but it’s still in early testing stages. Don’t replace your current diabetes medications with this formula yet—talk to your doctor before trying any new treatments, especially if you have diabetes.
The Research Details
Scientists conducted laboratory experiments using two animal models: mice and zebrafish. Both groups were fed high-fat diets to create obesity-related diabetes similar to what happens in humans. The researchers then gave some animals the herbal formula while keeping others as controls (no treatment) to compare results. They used advanced technology called mass spectrometry to identify all the active compounds in the herbal mixture—finding 371 different substances, with 14 key ingredients that appeared to have anti-diabetes effects. The team examined liver tissue under microscopes and used electron microscopes to see tiny changes in cells. They also measured blood sugar levels, fat levels, and inflammation markers to track improvements.
This research approach is important because it bridges traditional medicine with modern science. By identifying exactly which compounds in the herbal formula are active and how they work at the cellular level, scientists can understand whether traditional remedies have real medical value. Testing in animals first is a necessary step before any human trials can happen. This systematic approach helps determine if the formula truly helps or if improvements are just coincidence.
The study used established animal models that reliably mimic human obesity-related diabetes, which strengthens the findings. The researchers used multiple testing methods (tissue examination, microscopy, blood tests) to confirm results from different angles. However, this is laboratory research only—results in mice and fish don’t always translate to humans. The study didn’t include human participants, so we can’t yet know if the formula works the same way in people or what side effects might occur.
What the Results Show
The herbal formula significantly improved how the animals’ bodies handled blood sugar and fat. In both mice and zebrafish, the formula reduced abnormal glucose and lipid levels that are typical in obesity-related diabetes. When researchers examined liver tissue under microscopes, they found that the formula reduced fatty liver disease—a common problem in obese people with diabetes. The animals treated with the formula had less fat accumulation in their liver cells and better-functioning mitochondria (the energy-producing parts of cells). Additionally, the formula reduced inflammation markers in the liver, suggesting it calmed down the immune system’s overactive response to obesity.
The research revealed that 14 specific compounds from the herbal formula were absorbed by the liver and appeared responsible for the benefits. These compounds include substances like demethyleneberberine and epiberberine. The formula worked through a specific cellular pathway called cGAS-STING, which is known to cause problems in obesity-related diabetes. By blocking this pathway, the formula reduced harmful inflammatory signals in cells. Interestingly, when researchers used a separate drug (C-176) that also blocks this same pathway, it produced similar benefits, suggesting this pathway is indeed the key target.
Previous clinical studies in humans had suggested this traditional formula helped with weight loss, blood sugar control, and reducing inflammation, but scientists didn’t understand how it worked. This research provides the first detailed explanation of the mechanism—showing that it works by blocking a specific cellular communication pathway. The findings align with what we know about obesity-related diabetes: inflammation and problems with how cells process energy are central to the disease. The formula’s approach of reducing inflammation and restoring normal cell energy production matches current scientific understanding of what helps treat this condition.
This study only tested the formula in animals, not humans, so we don’t know if it will work the same way in people. The dosages used in animals may not translate directly to appropriate human doses. The study didn’t test for potential side effects or how the formula might interact with other medications people take for diabetes. We don’t know how long the benefits last or if the formula works equally well for everyone. Additionally, the study didn’t compare the formula directly to standard diabetes medications like metformin in the same animals, making it hard to judge how effective it is compared to existing treatments.
The Bottom Line
Based on this early research, the herbal formula shows promise as a potential treatment for obesity-related type 2 diabetes, but it’s not ready for general use yet. Current confidence level: Low to Moderate (this is preliminary animal research). If you have type 2 diabetes, continue taking your prescribed medications as directed by your doctor. Don’t stop or replace medications based on this research. If you’re interested in trying this formula, discuss it with your healthcare provider first, as it may interact with your current medications or not be appropriate for your specific situation.
People with obesity-related type 2 diabetes should pay attention to this research as it may lead to new treatment options in the future. Healthcare providers treating diabetes should be aware of this emerging research. People interested in traditional Chinese medicine and modern science may find this bridge between the two approaches interesting. However, people with type 1 diabetes, pregnant women, and those taking blood-thinning medications should wait for more research before considering this formula. Anyone with liver disease should be especially cautious, as the formula works through the liver.
In the animals tested, improvements in blood sugar and inflammation appeared within the study period, but we don’t know the exact timeline. If this formula eventually becomes available for human use, realistic expectations would be gradual improvements over weeks to months, similar to other diabetes medications. Don’t expect overnight results—managing diabetes is a long-term process.
Want to Apply This Research?
- If you discuss this formula with your doctor and get approval to try it, track your fasting blood sugar levels weekly using your app. Record the exact time you take the formula and note any changes in energy levels, appetite, or digestion. This data will help you and your doctor determine if it’s working for you.
- If approved by your doctor, set a daily reminder to take the formula at the same time each day (consistency matters for herbal remedies). Pair this with logging your meals in the app to see if the formula helps reduce cravings or improves how your body responds to food. Continue all current diabetes medications unless your doctor specifically tells you to change them.
- Over 3 months, track trends in your fasting blood sugar readings, weight, and energy levels. Share monthly summaries with your doctor to assess whether the formula is helping. If you notice any unusual symptoms, digestive issues, or changes in how your other medications work, report them immediately to your healthcare provider.
This research is preliminary laboratory work in animals and has not been tested in humans. Do not use this information to replace medical advice from your doctor. If you have type 2 diabetes or obesity, continue taking all prescribed medications as directed. Before trying any new herbal supplements or traditional remedies, especially if you take diabetes medications, blood thinners, or have liver disease, consult with your healthcare provider. Some herbal products can interact with medications or cause side effects. This formula is not currently approved by the FDA for treating diabetes. Always inform your doctor about any supplements or herbal products you’re considering.