Gymnema Sylvestre (Gymnema)
Despite having studied herbs as medicine for three years, and worked with them for over seventeen, I am still amazed and sometimes surprised by their qualities and potential. Gymnema is one of these herbs for me.
Known by practitioners as an anti-diabetic herb, acting as a hypoglycemic and hypocholesterolemic (reduces both sugar and cholesterol in the body), and for working with diet and lifestyle strategies for weight reduction, it also has some surprising actions that make it almost the herb for modern humans.
It reduces the sense of taste for sweet foods (there goes your sweet cravings!)
It reduces appetite and therefore calorie intake
Decreases the uptake of glucose by the liver, kidney and intestines
Increase insulin production by improving cell growth in the pancreas where insulin is produced
Blocks the absorption of lipids (fats), thereby lowering "bad" low-density lipoprotein (LDL) levels in the blood
Has been shown to prolong lifespan in cases of severe diabetes, and reduce insulin dependence
It is known in Ayurvedic medicine as the “sugar-destroyer”. A very apt name.
Gymnema contains chemicals that reduce how much sugar the stomach absorbs. It might also increase the amount of insulin in the body and increase the growth of cells in the pancreas, which is where the body makes insulin.
As with all herbs, medicines and some foods, being fully informed before taking anything new, then monitoring effects closely is recommended. We advise that taking herbs should be done in consultation with a naturopath or herbalist, as we are trained to advise you around any potential interactions and side effects, and to work with you on understanding your body and condition via quality education. We’re happy to help.
