An Amazing Ayurvedic Herb to Help Manage Blood Sugar Levels

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An ayurvedic remedy that can treat diabetes

Introduction

Table of Contents

Diabetes has become a significant health concern in today’s world. Over 4 million people die every year because of diabetes. Additionally, the World Health Organization (WHO) has reported that kidney disease due to diabetes has caused around 530,000 deaths in 2021, and high blood sugar levels caused 11% of cardiovascular deaths.

Nowadays, natural plants and herbal medicines are extensively researched by scientists all over the world for the treatment of many life-threatening diseases including diabetes. Ayurveda proposes a holistic method for the treatment of any disease including the management of blood sugar levels. From time immemorial, Ayurvedic practitioners are using a special herb for the management of diabetes. This herb is none other than Sarpa-Darushtrika (Gymnema sylvestre).

Gymnema sylvestre is famously known as “Gurmar” (sugar-destroyer), as it can significantly lower blood sugar levels. In this article, we will learn about the various scientific studies that show the therapeutic potential of Gymnema sylvestre as an antidiabetic.

Disclaimer

This article is for informational purposes only. It must not be treated as a substitute for professional medical diagnosis, advice, or treatment. Please consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting any medications or regimes discussed herein.

Ayurveda on Gymnema sylvestre

  • Gymnema sylvester is regarded as the main herb for the management of diabetes mellitus within Ayurveda.
  • It is colloquially known as “Gurmar” in India due to its hypoglycemic properties.
  • Other than treating hyperglycemia, it is also used to treat fever and cough by Ayurvedic practitioners due to its Kapha pacifying properties.
  • Modern studies have shown that it may also be helpful in lowering triglycerides, and weight management.
  • You can buy Gymnema Capsules here – H&C Herbal Ingredients Expert Gurmar/Gymnema 450mg 120-Capsules. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Scientific Studies on "Gurmar's" Effect on Blood Sugar Levels

blood sugar levels can be managed by an Ayurvedic medicine named Gymnema sylvestre

There has not been extensive scientific research on Gymnema sylvestre to substantiate it as a stand-alone medicine for the treatment of diabetes. But there have been studies conducted around the world that highlight that Gurmar can be used for the management of blood sugar levels.

Reduces Desire for Eating High-Sugar Food Items

  • A study found that Gymnemic acids present in Gurmar reduce the perception of sweetness without affecting the perception of other taste elements.
  • Sugar cravings was found to be reduced among the participants who consumed extracts of Gymnema sylvestre.
  • Participants who took gymnema acid-containing mint took 21.3% fewer servings of their favourite chocolate than those who took placebo mints.
  • Reduced sugar cravings will result in lower intake of high-sugar food items, which can be beneficial for managing diabetes.

Analysis of Studies to Assess Gurmar's Impact on Glycemic Control

  • A comprehensive meta-analysis was conducted to assess Gymnema Sylvester’s (GS) effect on blood sugar control in type-2 diabetes(T2DM).
  • Some 10 studies with a total of 419 participants was examined by the researchers to compare results before and after GS supplementation.
  • It was found that GS intake reduced fasting blood glucose (FBG), post-prandial blood glucose (PPBG), and glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c).
  • The review suggests GS improves blood sugar control and reduces unhealthy fats, which make it a potentially effective medication for managing type-2 diabetes.

A Comparative Analysis of Gymnema sylvestre and Metformin

  • Metformin is the primary medication for the treatment of type-2 diabetes. A study was conducted to compare the effects of GS, fenugreek, and metformin on diabetic rabbits and rats.
  • Diabetes was induced in rabbits and they were treated with aqueous extracts of GS, fenugreek, the mixture of the two, and metformin.
  • Surprisingly, GS was found to be almost as effective as metformin in lowering blood sugar levels.
  • Additionally, GS also increased insulin secretion and improved kidney and liver enzyme levels like metformin.

A Comprehensive Review of the Pharmacological and Clinical Potentials of Gymnema sylvestre

  • The review highlighted that the Gymnemic acids present in GS occupy sugar receptors in the intestines, which prevents glucose absorption. This results in lower post-prandial (after-meal) blood sugar levels.
  • In a study, the methanol extract of GS helped in beta-cell regeneration in the pancreas, thus promoting insulin secretion. This might be beneficial in treating type-1 diabetes.
  • GS supplementation also helps reduce high cholesterol and triglyceride levels, a common problem in diabetic patients.
  • These properties of Gurmar (GS) might make it useful for prediabetic individuals.  

Conclusion

In this article, we discussed the anti-diabetic properties of Gymnema sylvestre (Gurmar). Diabetes is an ever-proliferating problem in the world. There are no absolute treatments for diabetes mellitus recognized within the scientific community. Therefore, searching for plant-based treatments that are economically feasible for the general masses is the need of the hour.  Gymnema sylvestre might be a potential herbal drug to manage blood sugar levels. 

Weight management is crucial both for preventing and managing diabetes, click here to learn about the Ayurvedic Herbs that reduce weight.

References

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