Herbs for Diabetes

Those who are diabetic, or even at the risk of diabetes, may be well aware of the kind of effect it can have on the body, and how, if uncontrolled, it can wreak severe havoc with the system. Fluctuation blood sugar levels, and its after effects are a serious force to reckon with, and while a lot of prescription drugs can help, there are also certain natural herbs and remedies that can help keep diabetes under control. Here, we take a look into the benefits of various herbs for diabetes.

The herbs mentioned here are usually available in the form of herbal supplements, that can be ordered online if you are unable to find them locally. Their effects would definitely be best when consumed in their raw form.

Aloe Vera
Highly regarded as the 'herb that heals', aloe vera has the ability to lower fasting blood sugar levels. The gel from the insides of the aloe vera leaves is dried and consumed, and has been used since ancient times as one of the various herbs for treatment of diabetes.

Amla (Indian Gooseberry)
Amla has the ability to stimulate insulin production from the pancreas, and works best when consumed along with the juice of bitter gourd (bitter melon). Not only does it help diabetes, it also helps in fat burning, and thereby promotes the regulation of blood sugar levels in those who have diabetes. Its antioxidant properties make it a herb that is generally great for the system.

Bitter Gourd/Bitter Melon
Freshly squeezed juice of a bitter melon is among many herbal treatments that has been used to regulate and lower blood sugar levels, and therefore, diabetes. When consumed daily, it has positive effects on the body. Beware of consumption of an excess dose, as it may cause abdominal discomfort. Those with hypoglycemia should avoid the consumption of bitter melon and its juice.

Gingko Bilboa
This herb is mainly used for the purpose of preventing diabetes, and may also be effective in treating diabetes in the early stages. It is also one of those effective herbs for diabetic neuropathy, and can prevent it at its onset or in the early stages by increasing the flow of blood to the nerve endings throughout the body. If you believe you may be prone to developing diabetes, you may begin consuming this herb to keep it at bay. Another effect of this herb is the ability to prevent diabetic retinopathy.

Indian Kino
The extract from this tree, helps with reducing the absorption of glucose from the stomach, and regulates the insulin levels in the body. A very common herb used in Ayurveda not only for diabetes, Indian kino is useful for the treatment of several other conditions that affect the body, including leucoderma and diarrhea.

Psyllium
Psyllium or Isabgul has been shown to reduce the effects of diabetes when taken on a regular basis. Moreover, psyllium husk also helps in lowering cholesterol levels that diabetics are prone to, and thus, reducing the risk of heart disease.

Cinnamon Bark
Cinnamon has properties similar to those of insulin, that enable the lowering of blood sugar levels. It also has the ability to regulate cholesterol and triglycerides. Cinnamon can easily be accommodated in your diet, by sprinkling a small amount on the food you eat. (Important: Do not assume a 'cinnamon roll' will help)

Fenugreek
Leaves and seeds from the fenugreek plant can both be used for several medicinal purposes. Among these, lowering blood sugar in diabetics is one of them. Its seeds are rich in fiber, and help not only with diabetes, but with high cholesterol levels, and even aid those who are aiming for weight loss.

Onion & Garlic
Both of these herbs have the capacity to stimulate the production of insulin by the pancreas and thus keep diabetes under control. Garlic has similar properties as those of onions, and in addition, helps in lowering cholesterol too. Not many people are aware about these properties of onion and garlic, but you must know that including these herbs in your diet, in their raw form, will definitely help you keep your diabetes under control.

Bilberry
This is another herb for diabetes that helps in controlling its effects on the eyes, namely diabetic retinopathy and cataracts. Overall, it is a useful herb for diabetes and the complications that may arise from it.

Tian Hua Fen
Also known as trichosanthis, this herb has been common in traditional Chinese medicine for the treatment of diabetes. With the capacity to lower blood sugar levels, this herb can keep diabetes and the effects of diabetes on the body under control.

Ginseng
Ginseng is one of those Chinese herbs that shows immediate effects on lowering blood sugar levels. This is one of the benefits of ginseng, that is done by stimulating insulin production by the pancreas, and thereby increasing the amount of insulin receptors. This herb is also known as Asian Ginseng or Ashwagandha.

Since these herbs have the ability to alter blood sugar levels, ensure that you consult your doctor, as well as a qualified herbalist before resorting to the consumption of these herbs. Remember, though they are herbs, an excess can have a negative effect on your body. To prevent your condition from getting worse, always consult a professional, who will tell you which of these herbal remedies is most useful for you, and its right dosage, depending on your blood sugar levels.

Disclaimer: This Buzzle article is for informative purposes only, and should not be used as a replacement for expert medical advice.