Gymnema, or Gymnema sylvestre, is a plant that is thought to have strong antidiabetic properties. The active compounds of the plant are a group of acids collectively referred to as gymnemic acids. Because of these acids, gymnema often is used in complementary and ayurvedic medicine practices to help control blood glucose in diabetics.
How It Works
According to a study published in the "Journal of Veterinary Medical Science" in 1997, gymnema might work by inhibiting the uptake of glucose in the small intestine, thus preventing rapid increases in blood glucose levels. It is important to note, however, that this study was done on guinea pigs, not humans. Guinea pigs were chosen because they share similar traits to humans, according to Gymnema.net.
The "Journal of Clinical Biochemistry and Nutrition" reports that the gymnemic acids in gymnema also might stimulate the pancreas to release insulin, which also can help lower blood sugar in diabetics.
According to Drugs.com, the research involving gymnema and its effects on glycemic control are positive but inconclusive.
Dosage
The most commonly studied dosage of gymnema for blood sugar control is 200 to 400 mg of an extract administered two times per day. This extract contained a standardized amount of 25 percent gymnemic acids. The extract is most commonly sold as a tea, although in 2006 manufacturers began to promote the use of gymnema in the form of a chewing gum.
Precautions
Because of its ability to inhibit the uptake of glucose in the small intestine, the use of gymnema might lead to hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar levels. Drugs.com notes that there are no reported toxicities or drug interactions with gymnema and the only reported side effect from supplementation is low blood sugar. Manufacturers of gymnema recommend that pregnant and lactating women avoid the use of gymnema, although there is no scientific evidence that the supplement causes harm to a pregnant woman or her developing baby.
Warnings
Herbal supplements should not be used as a substitute for proper medical care. If you have diabetes and want to use gymnema, talk to your doctor about any possible risks or side effects that might occur as a result of taking a gymnema supplement. If you experience any symptoms of hypoglycemia, such as dizziness, light-headedness, fatigue or confusion, stop taking gymnema and contact your doctor immediately.
References
- Drugs.com: Gymnema
- "Journal of Clinical Biochemistry and Nutrition"; Gymnema sylvestre: A Memoir; Parijat Kanetkar; September 2007
- Gymnema.net: What is Gymnema?
- "Journal of Veterinary Medical Science"; Suppression of Glucose Absorption by Some Fractions Extracted from Gymnema Sylvestre Leaves; Shimizu K; April 1997
