Hypoglycemia, or extremely low blood sugar levels, is a common side effect in diabetics, although it may also occur in nondiabetics. Normally, when your blood sugar levels begin to plummet, a specific hormone causes glucose to be released from your liver. In most cases, this process helps normalize your blood sugar levels. If your blood sugar does not return to normal levels, however, you may have a condition known as hypoglycemia. Certain herbs may help balance your blood sugar, but talk to your doctor first to ensure your safety.
About Hypoglycemia
Hypoglycemia, notes the National Center for Biotechnology Information, causes numerous symptoms, including mental impairment, convulsions, fatigue, weakness, hunger, aggression, and shaking or trembling. If left unchecked, hypoglycemia caused by excessive insulin secretion can lead to unconsciousness and coma -- a condition known as insulin shock. Severe manifestations of this condition can cause seizures and irreversible damage to your nervous system if your hypoglycemia is not treated in a timely manner.
Useful Herbs
Many useful herbs are used for treating this condition. The University of Maryland Medical Center notes that green tea and holy basil are two of the most potent herbs in treating or preventing this condition. Green tea has antioxidant action, while holy basil is helpful for stress balance. Other helpful herbs for hypoglycemia include gentian root, licorice and gymnema -- an herb that is commonly used in Ayurvedic medicine, the traditional medicine system of India.
Featured Herb
Holy basil, also known as tulsi, is a frequently used herbal remedy in the treatment of hypoglycemia, especially hypoglycemia associated with stress, nervous irritation and depression. In his book "Therapeutic Herb Manual," Ed Smith, an expert herbalist, states that holy basil is a helpful adjunct therapy in non-insulin dependent diabetes. Holy basil has adaptogenic action, in that it reduces your stress levels, calms your nerves and helps alleviate your depression. This herb may also help protect your liver, prevent and treat gastric ulcers, and enhance your immune function.
Disclaimer
Hypoglycemia is a potentially life-threatening complication of diabetes. If you are a diabetic, it is important for you to discuss healthy, safe and effective treatment strategies with your family doctor or health care specialist so that you do not slip into a hypoglycemic state. Herbs alone, though often helpful, may not be sufficient to prevent diabetes-related complications. Herbs should, however, be included in a well-rounded treatment plan that is designed to reduce the negative health effects of diabetes.
References
- MedlinePlus: Hypoglycemia
- National Center for Biotechnology Information: Hypoglycemia
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Hypoglycemia
- "Therapeutic Herb Manual"; Ed Smith; 2007
