- Gymnema (Gymnema sylvestris)
Gymnema has been used for more than two thousand years in Ayurvedic medicine for diabetes. Gymnema helps stabilize blood sugar levels, enhances insulin production, promotes the regeneration of beta cells that release insulin into the pancreas, and inhibits adrenaline from stimulating the liver to
produce glucose.
Furthermore, when gymnema is taken before eating, the molecules of one of its constituents, gymnemic acid, fill the sugar-taste receptor sites on the tongue for one to two hours, thus preventing the taste buds from reacting to the sugar molecules in food and blocking the taste of sugar; with the taste of sugar gone, the desire to eat sugar subsides.
For an infusion, infuse 2 to 3 teaspoons of herb in 1. cup of boiling water for 10 minutes in a covered container. Up to 30,000 mg daily.
- Goat’s Rue (Galega officinalis)
A strong choice for hypoglycemic use gradually over time among Herbal Medicine but as with the others, it doesn’t replace insulin and should be used under professional supervision. It’s also very effective for milk production in lactating mums.To make an infusion, pour 1 cup of boiling water over 2 to 3 teaspoons of dried herb and infuse for 15 minutes. Up to 6,000 mg daily.
- Cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum)
Laboratory studies suggest that cinnamon may be useful in the treatment of diabetes (type 2) because of its blood sugar-lowering effects.
Cinnamon stimulates the digestive tract, circulation and its prolonged use is known to beautify the skin and promote a rosy complexion. It is especially helpful for people who are always cold and have poor circulation.
To make an infusion, pour 1 cup of boiling water over 1 to 2 teaspoons of dried herb and infuse for 10 to 15 minutes. This should be drunk three times a day or as needed. Up to 6,000 mg daily.
Please remember to monitor your blood-sugar level and continue with your insulin under professional supervision.
Until next time,
Jorge Tendeiro
Sources:
Hoffmann, David. Medical Herbalism : The Science and Practice of Herbal Medicine. Rochester, Vt.: Healing Arts Press, 2003.
Mars, Brigitte. The Desktop Guide to Herbal Medicine : The Ultimate Multidisciplinary Reference to the Amazing Realm of Healing Plants, in a Quick-Study, One-Stop Guide. Laguna Beach, CA: Basic Health Pub., 2007.
Ulbricht, Catherine E., and Natural Standard (Firm). Natural Standard Herb & Supplement Guide : An Evidence-Based Reference. 1st ed. Maryland Heights, Mo.: Elsevier/Mosby, 2010.