Gymnema
(Gymnema sylvestris)
Gymnema comes to us from mainland India and several parts of
Africa and has a deep history rooted in Ayurvedic medicine.
Currently it is one of the major botanicals being administered
for those suffering from diabetes, in boosting insulin levels and
controlling healthy blood sugar levels. Because Gymnema has a
molecular structure similar to sugar, it blocks and inhibits a large
percentage of sugar absorption and has the incredible ability of
severing ones desire for sugar. This probably explains its
widespread use from Mothers wishing to tame their childrens sweet
tooth.
Constituents
Gymnemic acid, Parabin, Glucose, and
Carbohydrates.
Parts Used
The leaf taken orally. The best
preparations have been those from whole leaf tea, but many liquid
extracts and capsules work comparably well.
Typical preparations
Tea infusion from the leaf,
either cut or whole, or taken orally in capsule or extract form.
(Not to exceed 400 mg daily)
Summary
Avid and thorough Indian research is working
hard to quantify and validate the sugar balancing properties of
Gymnema. It is their belief that these findings will further prove
the effectiveness of Gymnema in controlling blood sugar. Because of
its ease in use, and promising results it is widely used and
popularly accepted as a safe and effective treatment in diabetes.
However it should be noted that those currently on insulin or
hypoglycemic drugs will have to monitor their levels more closely.
Precautions
Gymnema can enhance the blood glucose
lowering effects of insulin and hypoglycemic drugs. Blood glucose
levels should be monitored closely.
