Side Effects of the Herb Gymnema

Gymnema, also called Gymnema sylvestre, is a plant commonly found in the tropical forests of south and central India. It has been used as a natural medicine for centuries and is best known for its effects on hypo/hyperglycemia and diabetes. It can also be used to treat constipation, liver disease, water retention, blood pressure problems, arrhythmia and tachycardia. It can also be used for weight loss by reducing the taste for sweet foods therefore eliminating cravings. There are potential side effects that are known to be a result of taking gymnema but since it is an alternative product that has not been approved by the FDA, there may be unknown side effects as well. Always discuss any and all alternative remedies with your physician before taking any.

Upset Stomach

• Gymnena can cause an upset stomach, so it is recommended that you take the herb with food. Since it woks to alleviate constipation, it can also cause cramping, especially if taken on an empty stomach.

Hypoglycemia

• Another possible side effect, as noted by Drugs.com, is hypoglycemia or very low blood sugar. Gymnema.net says, "Extremely high doses may have the potential to induce hypoglycemia in individuals who are prone to hypoglycemic episodes." According to Rxlist.com, those taking insulin for diabetes are at an increased risk of very low blood sugar.

Interference with Taste

• According to Drugs.com, gymnema intereferes with the ability to taste both sweet and bitter flavors. The interference with sweet tastes is what makes gymnema effective as a weight loss supplement, according to gymnema.net.

Contraindications

• Because so little is known about the side effects of gymnema, RxList recommends not using it if you are pregnant or scheduled for surgery within two weeks. Gymnema.net says that, in addition to insulin, certain drugs and other substances, such as antidepressants, aspirin and St. John's wort, can enhance the herb's blood-sugar lowering effects.