Herbal Treatments for Diabetes: An Overview

Currently, there are several herbal treatments available to aid in the regulation and maintenance of normal blood glucose (sugar) levels. However, there are certain herbs that have associations with this control of blood sugar levels. These herbs should be used in addition to a healthy diet and lifestyle. Herbs are a natural method that may be helpful in the controlling and regulating of your diabetic condition. It is important that the diagnosis and treatment methods of your diabetic condition be discussed with a physician.

Banaba Leaves

Banaba leaves have been utilized for the natural treatment of diabetes in the Philippines for years in the form of Banaba tea. It is associated with an ability to decrease high blood sugar levels (hyperglycemia) and maintain normal blood sugar levels.

Bilberry Leaves

Bilberry has been used for centuries, not only for food, but for its medicinal effects. Bilberry leaves have been associated with decreased overall risk of certain diabetic condition complications, including diabetic retinopathy and cataracts. The berries also contain high amounts of antioxidants.

Bitter Melon Fruit Extract

Bitter melon is a fruit native to Asia, South America, and Africa. It has been utilized for years as a natural way to decrease blood sugar. Bitter foods are also commonly associated with the ability to stimulate digestion.

Cayenne Fruit

Cayenne is a red pepper that has been used as a culinary item and for its medicinal properties for centuries. Cayenne fruit has certain properties associated with its ability to aid in the control of the condition of diabetes.

Ceylon Cinnamon Bark

Cinnamon is commonly utilized around the world as a spice. This natural spice also has medical uses. Ceylon cinnamon bark is correlated as a possible treatment method for diabetes, specifically type 2.

Guggul Gum Resin

This is a natural herb thought to be useful in the treatment and regulation of diabetes. It also has other beneficial properties, including; lowering cholesterol, mild laxative, and promotes digestion.

Gymnema Sylvestre Leaves

Gymnema sylvestre leaves have also been commonly utilized for the natural treatment of diabetic conditions. It is associated with decreased sweet cravings, and is thought to provide improvements with insulin's ability to lower and control blood sugar levels. This is useful for both insulin and non-insulin dependent diabetic individuals. It is associated with the ability to naturally increase insulin production by the pancreas.

Juniper Berries

Juniper berries have been utilized for years as an ingredient to flavor foods, particularly meats. These berries also have correlations with the treatment of diabetes, as there are associations between juniper berries and the lowering of blood sugar levels.

Licorice Bark Extract

Historically, licorice was utilized by ancient Chinese cultures for the treatment of digestive disorders. Recently, there have been new associations with licorice bark extract and the regulation of blood sugar levels.

Yarrow Leaves

Yarrow leaves were first utilized in Europe and Asia for the treatment of wounds to speed healing times. This is helpful in diabetic individuals, as healing times are typically longer than normal.

Sources:

http://www.umm.edu/altmed/articles/bilberry-000225.html

http://www.hort.purdue.edu/newcrop/med-aro/factsheets/LICORICE.html

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