Diabetes is a chronic health problem associated with unsafe levels of sugar in your blood. The National Center for Biotechnology Information states that there are various types of diabetes, including Type 1, Type 2 and gestational diabetes, which occurs when there is an elevated blood sugar level during pregnancy. Herbal remedies are an important part of a well-rounded diabetes treatment plan, but you should always consult your physician before using herbs.
Diabetes
Dr. Joseph E. Pizzorno Jr., a doctor of naturopathic medicine and author of "The Clinician's Handbook of Natural Medicine," states that diabetes is a lifelong disorder of carbohydrate, fat and protein metabolism that is associated with fasting elevations in blood glucose and a significantly increased risk of various organ problems, nerve dysfunction and stroke. If you have diabetes, your pancreas -- a large gland and organ in your upper abdomen -- does not function properly or your cells have become resistant to insulin, which is the hormone responsible for the cellular intake of glucose.
Helpful Herbal Medications
Some herbal medications may help control your blood sugar, thereby reducing your chances of developing long-term health complications. In his book "Plant Medicine in Practice," naturopathic physician William A. Mitchell Jr. notes that certain herbs possess hypoglycemic action, or the capacity to lower your high blood sugar levels. Examples of herbal medications with hypoglycemic action include black tea, green tea, bilberry, juniper, garlic, fenugreek and gymnema. These herbal medications may be particularly helpful for treating Type 2 diabetes.
Highlighted Herb
Bilberry is an herbal medication that may effectively treat your diabetes. Certified nutritional consultant Phyllis A. Balch, author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," states that bilberry -- a relative of the American blueberry -- is particularly effective for regulating your insulin levels. It helps maintain your blood vessel flexibility. Both the fruit and the leaves of the bilberry plant can be processed into herbal extracts for treating various ailments, including diabetes, anxiety and inflammation.
Additional Information
Diabetes is best managed with a variety of health measures, including dietary changes, regular aerobic activity and other therapies as suggested by your healthcare provider. Herbal medications, like prescription medications, can significantly affect your physiological functions and should be used with considerable caution. Consider visiting your doctor to gather as much information about herbal remedies as possible before using them. Your doctor can counsel you on the appropriate use of herbal medications.
References
- National Center for Biotechnology Information: Diabetes
- "The Clinician's Handbook of Natural Medicine"; Joseph E. Pizzorno, Jr., N.D.; 2002
- "Plant Medicine in Practice"; William A. Mitchell Jr., N.D.; 2003
