Type 2 diabetes, also known as adult onset diabetes, accounts for 90 percent of all diagnosed diabetes cases, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. This condition is characterized by insufficient production or use of insulin, a chemical that delivers glucose in your bloodstream to cells for repair and energy. Type 2 diabetes can be caused by heredity, lack of exercise and poor nutrition. Although herbal medicines cannot cure Type 2 diabetes, they may help reduce symptoms. Check with your doctor before taking any herb for Type 2 diabetes management.
Celery Seed
Celery seed has been used as an herbal medicine for centuries -- ancient Ayurvedic healers in India recommended celery seed as a remedy for water retention, arthritis and influenza, according to Michael Castleman, author of "The New Healing Herbs." Celery seed may also help lower blood sugar levels, which may relieve fatigue and loss of mental concentration associated with Type 2 diabetes, However, current research linking celery seed to diabetes management is not conclusive. Talk to your physician if you plan to take celery seed to control diabetes. This herb is a diuretic and may deplete your body of potassium.
Garlic
Ancient Egyptian rulers gave rations of garlic to their slaves to increase their productivity and longevity. Garlic is a powerful immune system booster that can help ward off bacterial and viral infections. Allicin, the active chemical compound in garlic cloves, may reduce glucose levels in your bloodstream, according to Phyllis Balch, author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing." This chemical may also help reduce low-density lipoproteins, the cholesterol components that produce fatty arterial blockages. High LDL cholesterol is a common problem among diabetics. Check with your doctor before treating diabetes with garlic. This herb may thin your blood and prevent wound healing.
Cayenne Pepper
Cayenne is a hot pepper used to spice Jamaican, Cajun, Tex-Mex, Indian and Asian dishes. This pepper may also offer medicinal benefits. Herbalists commonly recommend cayenne pepper as a pain remedy for arthritis. Capsaicin, the chemical contained in the seeds of cayenne peppers, may also improve blood circulation and lower "bad" cholesterol, reducing the risk of diabetes-related heart disease. It may lower glucose levels in your bloodstream, according to Balch. Cayenne may help relieve ankle and foot pain common among diabetics. Check with your physician before using cayenne to treat diabetes -- it may cause skin rashes and gastrointestinal upset.
Aloe
Aloe is best known for its ability to soothe sunburn, skin rashes and minor cuts; however, it may also offer other healing benefits. The chemicals in aloe gel may help manage blood glucose, according to Castleman. However, studies of aloe's diabetes management benefits are not conclusive. Consult your physician if you plan to take aloe internally. Aloe gel has laxative properties. It may also irritate peptic ulcers and hemorrhoids.
References
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch, C.N.C.; 2010
- "The New Healing Herbs"; Michael Castleman; 2010
