Condition
Treatment Support
pancreatic tonic
Application
tablet, tinctures
Gymnema
(Gymnema sylvestre)
Also know as Meshashringee
Botanical Information
A woody vine with small yellow flowers from the Milkweed family.
Working with Gymnema
Part(s) Used
Rhizome
Herb Forms
Capsule, tablet.
Gymnema is a common vine-like plant indigenous to India. It has been used for centuries in the ancient system of medicine known as Ayurveda under the name Meshashringee. Interestingly, the plant has the ability to block the experience of sweet tastes for a short period of time and has gained the reputation as a weight-loss herb.
The roots and leaves are used in traditional medicine to strengthen digestion and lower fevers. Modern research shows that extracts of the leaves can lower blood sugar levels in animals and humans when they are too high, but do not change the levels when they are normal.
More interestingly, the herb appears to have the rare ability to restore the beta-cells in the pancreas where insulin is produced. Thus it may be useful for non-insulin dependent diabetes or for people who have pancreas stress because of over-consumption of simple sugars (for instance in candy and ice cream) or other causes.
Cautions
None noted.
Conditions treated with Gymnema
Condition
Treatment Support
Application
The information given here is designed to help you make informed choices about your health. The information is drawn from numerous sources—both traditional medicine practice, from the clinical experience of many herbalists currently practicing, and supported by decades of scientific research from the author. The research most consulted includes human clinical trials that help to determine the most effective and safe herbs for various needs, the best doses, and types of preparations.
The information offered in this database is not intended as a substitute for any that may have been prescribed by your health practitioner or physician.
