Herbs Used for Diabetes

According to the American Diabetes Association, almost 24 million Americans have diabetes. Diabetes mellitus is an insulin disorder in which glucose remains in the blood stream rather than entering the cells to create energy. Long-term high blood sugar has many complications, including heart disease, blindness, kidney damage and nervous system disease. Type 2 diabetes is the most common form, which is linked to obesity and inactivity and is preventable. Certain herbs may be helpful in treating Type 2 diabetes; however, they are not a substitute for proper medical care. A botanically-trained health care provider, such as a naturopathic physician, can recommend safe and appropriately individualized herbal remedies while monitoring their effects.

Gymnema

Gymnema sylvestre is a climbing plant native to areas of southeast Asia and South Africa, and it is popularly-used herb for diabetes. In a 2002 "Townsend Letter for Doctors and Patients," herbalist Kerry Bone reports that Gymnema has been used in Ayurveda -- the traditional medicine system of India -- for over 2000 years. Gymnema is thought to lower blood sugar levels by stimulating insulin release. It may also repair the cells of the pancreas -- the organ that secretes insulin. Additionally, Gymnema has the unique ability to temporarily desensitize the taste buds to sweet tastes. This action may be helpful for individuals with uncontrollable sweet cravings. Bone further suggests the utility of Gynmema for weight loss. As well as being helpful for Type 2 diabetes, Gymnema also shows early promise for treating Type 1, however, it is not substitute for injected insulin. Gymnema may be taken as a tea, liquid extract, capsule or tablet.

Fenugreek

Fenugreek is a plant native to the Mediterranean region. The yellow-brown seeds are used in cooking and medicinally, especially in India, Africa, Egypt and Morocco. Contributors to the "Textbook of Natural Medicine," Dr. Michael Murray, a naturopathic physician, and Dr. Michael Lyon, a medical doctor, report that fenugreek seeds demonstrate significant positive effects on people with both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes. Fenugreek helps to lower blood sugar levels both after meals and while fasting. It also improves glucose tolerance -- the body's ability to properly metabolize sugar in the blood. Fenugreek additionally functions as a fiber supplement. Water-soluble fiber, such as fenugreek, enhances blood sugar control and helps to promote weight loss by slowing the absorption of glucose into the body and creating a sense of satiety, or fullness. Fenugreek should not be used in pregnancy unless under the guidance of a qualified health care practitioner.

Bilberry

Bilberry, as well as huckleberry and blueberry, is a member of the Vaccinium species. The plant is native to Northern Europe, and the berries and leaves are used medicinally. Bilberry has historical use for lowering blood sugar levels in diabetics, although specific human studies in this arena are lacking. Bilberry also has wide-spread use in treating circulatory problems because it's thought to strengthen the walls of tiny blood vessels, or capillaries. Bilberry is a source of flavonoids, and as Drs. Murray and Lyon report, the plant has a special affinity for the eye. Therefore, bilberry can be especially helpful in diabetic retinopathy -- eye damage that can result in blindness. Bilberries may be eaten as fresh or dried berries, or consumed as a standardized extract. Before using bilberry or other herbs, consult with a botanically-trained health care provider for appropriate forms and dosage.