What Herbs Are Good for Diabetes?

The energy our bodies need to survive comes from glucose, which is absorbed when we eat carbohydrates. Glucose builds up in the bloodstream and insulin is secreted, allowing the glucose to enter the cells. In diabetes, glucose doesn't enter the cells; it accumulates in the blood and can damage the eyes, kidneys, blood vessels and nerves. While herbs are not a substitute for medical care, there are some that help regulate glucose levels.

Bitter Melon

• Bitter melon (Momordica charantia) lowers blood sugar levels. According to clinical studies reported in the British Medical Journal, a water-soluble extract of bitter melon fruits "significantly reduced blood glucose concentrations during a 50 g oral glucose tolerance test in the diabetics." Similar results were noted by the Journal of Ethnopharmacology. Bitter melon supplements can be purchased at healthy food and vitamin stores. Bitter melon fruit can be purchased in Asian markets and juiced like any other fruit.

Fenugreek

• Fenugreek seeds (Trigonella foenum graecum) are best known as an ingredient in curry, but the high-fiber seeds have proven glucose regulating properties. Powdered seeds lowered blood glucose and improved cholesterol levels. Results reported in the European Journal of Clinical Nutrition reported a 54 percent reduction in 24-hour urinary glucose excretion.

Cinnamon, Ginseng and More

• Cinnamon contains a chemical that helps diabetics utilize blood sugar. The European Journal of Clinical Nutrition published a report that stated: "Cinnamon extract seems to have a moderate effect in reducing fasting plasma glucose concentrations in diabetic patients with poor glycemic control."

  Both American and Asian Ginseng appear to lower blood glucose levels. A study conducted by St. Michael's Hospital and the University of Toronto found that consuming American ginseng before a meal reduced blood sugar in people both with and without diabetes.

  Other herbs that show promise in treating and managing diabetes include prickly pear cactus, ground flaxseed, Gymnema sylvestre, ginkgo and bilberry.

Considerations

• To control diabetes properly, patients must maintain a suitable weight, exercise regularly and eat a healthy diet. If you are under a doctor's care for a diabetic condition, do not make any changes without consulting your physician. Also see your doctor if you have any of the early warning signs of diabetes, including excessive thirst, frequent urination or unusual hunger.