Gymnena sylvestre has been used for centuries in India to treat diabetes. It is also useful in weight loss regimens.
In studies, extracts of the plant have decreased fasting blood sugar levels, normalized blood lipids (cholesterol and triglycerides,) lowered insulin requirements and enhanced insulin production. It accomplishes this by repairing and regenerating the insulin producing cells in the pancreas.
Studies also show that craving for and consumption of sweets diminishes for hours after a dose. Gymnena sylvestre is nontoxic, however, diabetics should work with their health practitioner to integrate the herb into their regimen to avoid insulin overdose.
Gymnena Sylvestre can help with the following
Diabetes Type II
Gymnena sylvestre has been used for centuries in India to treat diabetes. It is also useful in weight loss regimens. A typical daily dose is 1 teaspoon (5ml) BID of a 1:1 liquid extract or 8-12gm of whole dried herb taken in 2 or 3 divided doses. This amount can result in lowered insulin requirements, so caution is advised if you are using insulin when starting the use of this herb.
Gymnena may help restore pancreatic function over time. Long term use is suggested to achieve the benefits, including lowered glycosylated hemoglobin (HgA1c) levels. One study in rats showed a return to normal fasting levels of glucose after 20 – 60 days of daily use, a rise in insulin levels and an increased number of beta cells in the pancreas. [J Ethnopharmacol 1990;30(3): pp. 281-94]
Key
| Likely to help |
Glossary
Diabetes Mellitus
A disease with increased blood glucose levels due to lack or ineffectiveness of insulin. Diabetes is found in two forms; insulin-dependent diabetes (juvenile-onset) and non-insulin-dependent (adult-onset). Symptoms include increased thirst; increased urination; weight loss in spite of increased appetite; fatigue; nausea; vomiting; frequent infections including bladder, vaginal, and skin; blurred vision; impotence in men; bad breath; cessation of menses; diminished skin fullness. Other symptoms include bleeding gums; ear noise/buzzing; diarrhea; depression; confusion.
Fasting Blood Sugar
(FBS): Blood is drawn before breakfast (i.e., after fasting), then the glucose (sugar) in the blood is measured.
Lipid
Fat-soluble substances derived from animal or vegetable cells by nonpolar solvents (e.g. ether); the term can include the following types of materials: fatty acids, glycerides, phospholipids, alcohols and waxes.
Cholesterol
A waxy, fat-like substance manufactured in the liver and found in all tissues, it facilitates the transport and absorption of fatty acids. In foods, only animal products contain cholesterol. An excess of cholesterol in the bloodstream can contribute to the development of atherosclerosis.
Triglyceride
The main form of fat found in foods and the human body. Containing three fatty acids and one unit of glycerol, triglycerides are stored in adipose cells in the body, which, when broken down, release fatty acids into the blood. Triglycerides are fat storage molecules and are the major lipid component of the diet.
Insulin
A hormone secreted by the pancreas in response to elevated blood glucose levels. Insulin stimulates the liver, muscles, and fat cells to remove glucose from the blood for use or storage.
Herbs
Herbs may be used as dried extracts (capsules, powders, teas), glycerites (glycerine extracts), or tinctures (alcohol extracts). Unless otherwise indicated, teas should be made with one teaspoon herb per cup of hot water. Steep covered 5 to 10 minutes for leaf or flowers, and 10 to 20 minutes for roots. Tinctures may be used singly or in combination as noted. The high doses of single herbs suggested may be best taken as dried extracts (in capsules), although tinctures (60 drops four times per day) and teas (4 to 6 cups per day) may also be used.