Effective Herbs For Diabetes That Can Control Blood Sugar Levels
Diabetes is a disease which is affecting many people from different walks of life. This is usually due to the body’s high blood sugar level, which manages the glucose (sugar) in the blood from the body’s food intake (digestive system). Side effects of diabetes and the development of its complications are preferred over traditional medicines as well as medicinal plants and herbs. However professional guidance is always advised while using medicinal plants and herbs for diabetes.
Some herbs, such as cinnamon and berberine, have been found to improve insulin sensitivity, making cells respond better to insulin and reducing the risk of developing diabetes. While others some herbs have anti-inflammatory properties that may help manage diabetes. Turmeric, ginger, and cinnamon are some examples of anti-inflammatory herbs.
Medicinal Plants and Herbs For Diabetes
There are several medicinal plants and herbs that can help to control blood sugar levels in people with diabetes. Here are some of the most effective:
American ginseng (Panax quinquefolium)
American ginseng is a popular herbal supplement that has been used for a variety of medicinal purposes, including diabetes management. Several studies have shown that American ginseng may help to improve blood sugar control in people with type 2 diabetes.
American ginseng is believed to work by increasing insulin sensitivity and improving glucose metabolism. It may also have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to reduce the risk of complications associated with diabetes.
Berberine
Some research suggests that berberine may be beneficial for people with diabetes, as it has been shown to help regulate blood sugar levels by increasing insulin sensitivity and reducing insulin resistance. It may also help to lower hemoglobin A1c levels, which is a marker of long-term blood sugar control.
However, it’s important to note that berberine should not be used as a substitute for medical treatment for diabetes. It may interact with certain medications.
Aloe vera
Some studies suggest that aloe vera gel may help lower blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes. This is believed to be due to the presence of certain compounds in aloe vera that can stimulate the secretion of insulin, the hormone responsible for regulating blood sugar levels.
This ayurvedic herb contains anti-inflammatory compounds that may help reduce inflammation in the body, which is believed to play a role in the development of diabetes complications such as neuropathy and retinopathy.
Neem
Neem, also known as Azadirachta indica, is a tree native to the Indian subcontinent that has been used for medicinal purposes for centuries.
Its leaves and other parts of the neem plant contain compounds that have been shown to have anti-diabetic properties. These compounds may help to improve insulin sensitivity and reduce insulin resistance, which could lead to better blood sugar control.
Indian blackberry, Jamun
Jamun is a low glycemic index fruit that is high in fiber and antioxidants. It has been shown to help improve insulin sensitivity and regulate blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes.
Indian gooseberry, Amla
Indian gooseberry is rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, and studies have shown that it may help improve glucose metabolism and insulin sensitivity in people with diabetes. It may also help lower blood sugar levels and improve lipid profiles in people with type 2 diabetes.
Bitter gourd
Bitter gourd, also known as bitter melon, is a vegetable that has been traditionally used in Asian and African medicine to help manage diabetes. Studies have shown that bitter gourd may help lower blood glucose levels in people with diabetes by increasing insulin sensitivity and promoting glucose uptake by cells.
Holy basil
Holy basil, also known as tulsi, is a herb commonly used in traditional Ayurvedic medicine.
Some studies have found that holy basil may help to lower blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes. This is thought to be due to its ability to increase insulin secretion and improve insulin sensitivity.
It is also rich in antioxidants, which can help to reduce oxidative stress in the body. This is important for people with diabetes.
Fenugreek seeds
Fenugreek seeds contain fiber, amino acids, and other compounds that are believed to have a positive effect on blood sugar levels.
One study found that taking fenugreek seeds before meals helped lower post-meal blood sugar levels in participants with type 2 diabetes.
Guduchi
Guduchi is an herb that has been traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine to treat various ailments, including diabetes.
It contains several bioactive compounds, including alkaloids, flavonoids, and polysaccharides, that may help improve insulin sensitivity and glucose metabolism. Some studies have found that Guduchi extracts can reduce blood glucose levels and improve lipid profiles.
Conclusion
Diabetes is a lifelong health condition that affects blood sugar and insulin levels in the body. Keeping diabetes under control involves both lifestyle changes and medications, but some supplements, such as herbs, can help you keep it under control.
Medicinal plants and herbs such as American ginseng, Berberine, Aloe vera, Neem, Holy basil, and Guduchi may not cure diabetes, but they can help provide relief from some of the symptoms and reduce your risk of complications.