Herbs for Diabetes
With the rising incidence of diabetes in this country more people than ever before are searching for natural treatments. According to the National Institutes for Health, nearly 26 million people in the United States are afflicted with this disease. One avenue of treatment, for many of these, means turning to an effective, safe natural herb. Diabetes responds well, herbalists explain to several remedies.One of the best herbs in lower blood sugar levels, it recently has been discovered is cinnamon. Yes, that ingredient that many of us use on our baked apples or use on our morning toast can aid in battling diabetes.
Ancient cultures, like the Egyptians and the Chinese have been using it medicinally for thousands of years. We've just recently, through several scientific studies, unlocked its valuable secrets. Of the studies conducted on this herb, Diabetes, the professional journal revealed that cinnamon lowered blood glucose levels between 18 and 29 percent after 40 days of regular use.
The curious aspect of this research showed "more" was not better. The most effective serving of cinnamon was roughly one-fifth a teaspoon. Believe it or not, taking any more actually lowered the potency of this herb; diabetes patients did not receive progressively better results as the servings of cinnamon were increased. Herbalists suggest that 500 mg daily taken as a supplement should help to lower your glucose level.
Or you can choose among several other herbal remedies. One of these is called bitter melon. It works by blocking your body's absorption of sugar through your intestines.
A recent study, conducted in the Philippines, revealed those who took this herb as a supplement for three months achieved a reduction in their sugar levels over those who had taken a placebo. Effective serving size of bitter melon is about three to six tablespoons daily if taken fresh.
An herb which you may not be familiar with is gymnema sylvestre. It comes from India and its name literally translates into "sugar destroyer." Many herbalists believe, in fact, that it's the premiere herb for the control of blood sugar levels. It works by balancing your body so it produces more insulin naturally.
Ginseng is already known for its ability to increase your energy levels. But you may not have known about the other benefits of taking this herb. Diabetes patients may want to take a good look at it. Ginseng actually slows the rate at which your body absorbs carbohydrates. This, in turn, increases the ability of your body to use glucose as well as increases the production of insulin from the pancreas. A Toronto-based study revealed that ginseng can lower blood glucose levels between 15 and 20 percent.
Before selecting any herbal supplement, speak with your health care practitioner and a licensed herbalist. The herbalist will help you choose the right herb for your condition the proper serving of this herb. Diabetes can lead to more serious health conditions, but it can also be controlled with a little thought and effort. And herbs may be the answer you're searching for.