Elevated blood glucose levels, among the most common types of blood sugar abnormalities, can lead to serious health problems such as ketoacidosis and diabetic coma if left untreated. If you have elevated blood glucose, or hyperglycemia, there is an excessive amount of blood sugar circulating in your bloodstream. Certain herbal remedies are known for their ability to control blood glucose, although you should always discuss the use of herbs with your physician before taking them to treat any serious health condition.
Blood Glucose
Glucose is a main source of energy for your body, including your brain. When you consume carbohydrate-laden foods, the carbohydrates get broken down into glucose in your blood. Hyperglycemia is common among diabetics, and prolonged hyperglycemia is one of the hallmarks of untreated diabetes. The condition can lead to life-threatening health complications if it is not managed over time. Blood sugar levels are constantly fluctuating, even in people without diabetes, and they should be kept at healthy levels for your body to function at its best.
Herbal Remedies
Effective herbal remedies for elevated blood glucose levels possess hypoglycemic action, or the capacity to restore blood glucose levels to their normal state. In her book "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth," Sharol Tilgner, a naturopathic physician and master herbalist, advises that juniper berries, garlic, gymnema and fenugreek possess hypoglycemic action and may be appropriate remedies for high blood glucose levels. Other beneficial plant remedies for this condition include Momordica charantia, or bitter melon, and Tinospora cordifo, or guduchi, used in Ayurvedic medicine.
Juniper Berries
The berries of the juniper plant have long been used to help reduce high blood glucose levels. Nutrition researcher and certified nutritional consultant Phyllis A. Balch, author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," states that juniper berries help regulate your blood glucose levels and may effectively treat cystitis, prostate disorders, gout, edema, obesity and asthma. Juniper berries possess hypoglycemic, diuretic, decongestant and anti-inflammatory action. Juniper berries contain many phytochemicals and nutrients.
Warning
High blood glucose levels call for immediate medical care to prevent devastating health problems. There are many natural methods for regulating blood glucose levels, including herbal remedies, nutritional supplements, exercise and dietary changes, although you should talk with your family doctor before pursuing any of these treatments. Your treatment plan should be established by your doctor and followed as closely as possible for optimal health benefits.
References
- Diabetes.org: High Blood Glucose
- MedlinePlus: Glucose Test - Blood
- "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth"; Sharol Tilgner, N.D.; 1999
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch, CNC; 2010
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