By Jonathan Evans
Herbal Information Specialist for The Herbarium
November is National Diabetes Month, and as a public service, I would like to offer some suggestions to those who may not have diabetes yet, but could be candidates for it and are looking for natural ways to avoid the condition.
Readers, please make sure you have been checked by your doctor if you suspect you may have any of the symptoms of this condition. Diabetes is nothing to play around with. However, there are several herbal supplements that have shown very good results with controlling blood sugar levels. Listed below are but a few of these supplements:
Herbal supplements for blood sugar control
Blueberry leaf or Mulberry leaf tea. For many years we have seen people who were borderline diabetics, control their sugar levels with two or three cups of the tea a day.
Gymnema. An Ayurvedic herb, also known as “gurmar” or “destroyer of sugar” in Sanskrit. Gymnema can sometimes help restore the ability of the pancreas to secrete insulin, and discourage cravings for sweets.
Aloe Vera juice. Helps stimulate insulin production without causing weight gain, and prevents high triglycerides.
Cinnamon. This spice, when taken in a tincture or capsule form, works best. The spice you buy at the grocery store may have a slight effect, but it also has been irradiated and could have anti-caking agents added. It also may not be the same species of cinnamon that was used in the studies.
Bitter melon. Increases the availability of glucose to the muscles, and keeps sugars from being absorbed through the intestine.
Chromium and biotin. This combination of mineral and vitamin has done quite well in keeping blood sugar levels under control. Research conducted by the University of Vermont College of Medicine also showed this combination helping cholesterol profiles.
More diabetes aids
In addition to these supplements, there are also several formulas available on the market from well-known, long established companies that have shown good results with blood sugar control. As always, do not jump at the first thing you see on the Internet. Talk to people who are familiar with the products, and always tell your doctor what you are using.
For more information on herbs for blood sugar control, you can refer to “Prescription for Herbal Healing” by Phyllis Balch, CNC. or “Natural Supplements for Diabetes” by Frank Murray.
Please send your questions on botanical remedies to Natures Rx: Jonathan Evans via email at herbarium258@gmail.com, or by regular mail to: The Herbarium, 264 Exchange St., Chicopee, Mass. 01013. If requesting additional information from Evans, please include a self-addressed stamped envelope.
