Healing Herbs For Diabetes

Diabetes is a health condition in which blood glucose levels are too high, according to Medline Plus. Glucose is maintained by insulin, which helps the sugar turn into energy for use by your cells. Too much glucose in the blood can cause serious health problems, including damage to the eyes, kidneys and nerves. There are several herbs that can help treat diabetes, although there is no sufficient scientific data. Always consult your physician before using any herbal remedy.

Cinnamon

Cinnamon comes from the inner bark of an evergreen tree that is native to Sri Lanka and India, according to Steven Bratman in the book "Collins Alternative Health Guide." It contains qualities similar to insulin, which aids in decreasing blood glucose levels in addition to fats like cholesterol and triglycerides. Bratman suggests using 1/2 tsp. of cinnamon a day to garner its health benefits.

Bitter Melon

Bitter melon, often referred to as balsam pear, is a widely used herbal remedy prevalent in folk medicine, according to W. Goreja in the book "Bitter Melon." This herb may help lower blood glucose levels due to the presence of charantin and plant insulin. Bitter melon acts on both the pancreas and non-pancreatic cells, like muscle cells to facilitate lowering blood sugar. Goreja recommends taking approximately 50ml of bitter melon each day.

Pterocarpus Marsupium

Pterocarpus marsupium, referred to as Indian kino, is common in all regions of India and Sri Lanka. It helps limit the absorption of sugar, or glucose, from the digestive tract to stabilize and improve insulin levels. It is the only herb to exhibit this activity, R. Ellsworth says in the book "Natural Treatments for Diabetes." It has several other benefits, which include astringent, anti-inflammatory and is useful in treating a cough.