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8 Effective Herbs To Lower Blood Sugar Levels!

Diabetes is known as the ‘Silent Killer.’ With Diabetes, the blood sugar becomes high as the body becomes desensitized to insulin. Since it is a chronic disease, one must depend on prescription medicines for the entire life. And this can cause a huge dent in one’s finances and even from the perspective of health, it is not good. Most of these medicines have some of their other side effects and are harmful to other organs with their prolonged use.

Many alternative therapies serve as good options for diabetes medicines. Acupressure, acupuncture and naturopathy give one some choice to reduce dependence on these medicines. Naturopathy cures use many herbs as a part of their treatment of high blood sugar. Here are a few herbs to lower blood sugar:

Did You Know?

  • 1.9 million Americans have type 1 diabetes, including about 244,000 children and adolescents. source: diabetes.org
  • Diabetes was the seventh leading cause of death in the United States in 2019. source: diabetes.org
  • Mothers with pre-existing diabetes were more prone to complications during pregnancy and intervention in childbirth. source: aihw.gov.au
  • In 2019, there were 9 million people with type 1 diabetes worldwide. [source: who.int]

Apart from home remedies, allopathic medicines play a key role in management of diabetes and prevention of its complications, be mindful of at least yearly follow-up with your physician to keep a track on the blood glucose levels and the medications.

Dr. Ashish Bajaj, M.B.B.S., M.D.

1. Rosemary

That delicious whiff in soups and curries is because of rosemary. Not just does rosemary promote weight loss but it also balances blood sugar levels. Rosemary is also responsible for reducing bad cholesterol (LDL) and increasing good cholesterol (HDL).

2. Ginseng

As part of oriental medicine, ginseng has been in use for many centuries. It has superlative immune-boosting properties and is anti-diabetic. Ginseng reduces the rate of absorption of carbs in the body. Ginseng also accelerates the production of insulin by the pancreas.

3. Sage

Research has shown that sage reduces blood sugar levels to a significant amount, more so when consumed on an empty stomach. Adding sage to the diet increases the secretion of insulin and helps manage diabetes better. It is best consumed in the form of tea.

4. Gymnemate Sylvestre or Gurmar

This herb has been part of ayurvedic cures for diabetes in India since time immemorial. It has gymnemic acids which neutralize the taste buds on the tongue towards sweet things. This helps the person to control sugar cravings. The herb also helps in the utilisation of excess glucose in the blood.

Also Read: Jamun Juice: Exploring Its Health Benefits and Uses

5. Oregano

This herb has a two-pronged effect on high blood sugar. It increases the activity in the pancreas to make more insulin and reduces blood sugar levels by inhibiting cravings for sweets. The glucose in the cells gets mobilised due to specific components present in oregano. Apart from boosting immune health, it reduces carbohydrate formation in the body.

6. Aloe Vera

The fleshy plant forms an essential part of alternative medicine in India, Mexico, Australia and South America. It reduces inflammation in the body and treats indigestion. Inflammation in the body is responsible for many chronic lifestyle diseases like diabetes. Read more about the benefits of aloe vera for skin and hair.

7. Ginger

Ginger is used extensively in Chinese and Indian cuisines. The aromatic herb has been used to combat diabetes. It increases the sensitivity of the body to insulin and helps in increasing insulin secretion.

Those who are suffering from diabetes can safely consume jamun as it is low in calories. Additionally, the polyphenolic ingredients present in jamun play a significant role in the treatment of diabetes.

Dr. M.G. Kartheeka, MBBS, MD

8. Fenugreek

Fenugreek seeds and the herb have been used to treat skin and digestive issues. This herb also fights metabolic disorders. Fenugreek helps in lowering blood glucose levels and combats diabetes.

While herbs may help control some symptoms of diabetes, it is important to remember that they cannot cure a person. That is why it is recommended that you consult with your doctor before you decide to try using anything. Your doctor would be able to advise you correctly and as per your medical history which is integral while considering alternative treatment alongside your regular medication. It is also important to ensure that you refrain from using inferior quality herbs as they can be detrimental to your cause. Herbs are helpful and beneficial but should only be used to complement your existing medication.

Read More: 10 Home Remedies for Diabetes.

Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.

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