The Potential of Combining Loranthus sp. (Morinda citrifolia parasite) and Stevia rebaudiana as A Herbal for Diabetes: A Review

¹ Department of Agriculture Science, Postgraduate Program, University of Muhammadiyah Malang, Malang 65145, East Java, Indonesia
² Departement of Food Technology, Faculty of Agricultural and Animal Science, Postgraduate Program, University of Muhammadiyah Malang, Malang 65145, East Java, Indonesia
³ Agribusiness Department, Lumajang University, Lumajang 67381, East Java Indonesia
⁴ Department of Food technology, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Muhammadiyah Palembang, Palembang 30263, South Sumatra Indonesia
⁵ Universitas Abulyatama, Aceh Besar 24415, Aceh Indonesia
⁶ Department of Agricultural Economics and Extension, Federal University Wukari, Wukari, Taraba State, Nigeria

^* Corresponding author: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Abstract

Diabetes mellitus remains a major global health burden, prompting continuous exploration of natural alternatives for its management. This systematic review, conducted following the PRISMA 2020 framework, synthesized evidence from 14 studies published between 2010 and 2025 focusing on the antidiabetic properties of Loranthus species and Stevia rebaudiana. Findings indicate that Loranthus sp. exhibits hypoglycemic effects primarily through antioxidant activity, ß-cell protection, and enhancement of insulin sensitivity, attributed to its flavonoids, tannins, and alkaloids. Meanwhile, Stevia rebaudiana demonstrates insulinotropic and a-glucosidase inhibitory actions due to steviol glycosides, alongside additional antioxidant and lipid-lowering effects. The complementary mechanisms of both plants suggest a potential synergistic role when combined—offering simultaneous glycemic control and improved dietary compliance. However, current evidence remains largely preclinical, with significant gaps in standardized dosing and clinical validation. Future studies should focus on combinational clinical trials and standardized extraction methods to establish efficacy and safety. This review highlights the novelty of integrating Loranthus and Stevia as a dual-function herbal strategy for natural diabetes management.