Top 10 Herbs for Diabetes
Gymnema (Gymnema sylvestre )
Used in herbalism for the treatment of diabetes for nearly 2,000 years. [4] its exotic sounding name is due to this plant being a native in southern and Central India [5] which aptly means “sugar destroyer” in Hindi. [6] This plant indeed lives up to its name by having potent effects on diabetes as research has demonstrated it can regulate blood sugar levels at a typical dosage of 200-250 milligrams taken twice a day. [7] Studies show that its ability to control blood sugar is partly due to resulting decreased sensitivity to sweetness and partly due to increased activity of enzymes that stimulate insulin production or glucose usage. [5] However, because consumption has been shown to cause some side effects, [7] it is best to talk with a medical professional prior to using Gymnema.Cinnamon
This is good news for diabetics with a sweet tooth as many baked goods today employ cinnamon to replace sugar and be more diabetic friendly. [8] In an August 2012 study conducted by researchers, subjects were asked to take 3 grams of cinnamon everyday throughout an 8-week period to assess its effects on glycemic conditions. The study concluded that cinnamon does have moderate effects in improving blood sugar levels. [3]
Bitter melon
This might not sound tasty but bitter melon extracts and juice have been found to lower blood sugar, whether in type 1 or 2 diabetic sufferers. Studies suggest that the compounds in bitter melon are similar to those of insulin [8] which blocks sugar from your intestines and allows more effective glucose consumption. [7]
Ginseng
This Chinese herb is well-known and praised for benefits to the immune system and as an overall vitality booster but more than this, its effect on glycemic control is very well documented: Analysis of 16 randomized controlled trials in 770 participants showed that Panax Ginseng supplementation significantly lowered fasting blood glucose. [5]. Further good news – a study has found Ginseng (Panax Quinquefolius L.) to be safe for long term use in type 2 diabetic patients. [5b] It is reported that ginseng slows absorption of carbohydrates while increasing glucose usage and insulin secretion by the pancreas. [6]
Fenugreek
This herb doesn’t just have culinary purposes but several animal and human clinical trials have also shown its ability to increase insulin sensitivity and production due to high amounts of amino acids it contains. A larger study on seeds of fenugreek shows that 60 participants who took 25 grams of fenugreek daily had major improvements in their blood sugar levels. [6]
Prickly Pear Cactus
According to studies, the fruit of prickly pear cactus plays significant role in lowering the level of sugar in the blood. Apart from the fact that its fruit is an excellent source of fiber, researchers believed that it contains high levels of chemicals that have similar functions with insulin. [9]
In one study, it was found out that intake of prickly pear cactus helps diabetics in reducing the level of glucose in their blood by as much as 46%. Furthermore, they found out that nopal variety yields the best results as it helps in lowering the level of bad cholesterol in the body while optimizing the level of good cholesterol. [10]
The list isn’t complete! To see the rest of 10 Best Natural Herbs for Diabetes, visit herbs-info.com.
Source: herbs-info.com
