Research progress on the regulatory effects of Chinese food and medicine homology on type 1 diabetes mellitus

Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) is an autoimmune disease targeting pancreatic β-cells, where infiltration and attack by T-cells and other immune cells lead to β-cell destruction and subsequent insulin deficiency. The precise etiology of T1DM remains unidentified. Current research has yielded various anti-T1DM drugs for clinical use, such as ultra-long-acting basal insulin and ultra-rapid-acting insulin. However, these medications often cause undesirable side effects, necessitating the exploration of safer alternatives. Notably, Chinese botanicals and medicinal equivalents offer advantages including wide availability, safety, and biological activity, facilitating natural screening for anti-T1DM agents. This study examines select food and medicine homologs known for their anti-T1DM properties—Astragalus, Ganoderma lucidum, honey, ginger, Curcuma longa, mulberry, and Cornus officinalis—and reviews their effects on T1DM, focusing on immunomodulation and other pathways.