Natural Herbs for Diabetes

According to the American Diabetes Association, nearly 21 million people in the United States have diabetes, as of 2009. Approximately 95 percent have type 2 diabetes, largely due to obesity. People now are using natural herbs as an alternative treatment.

What is Diabetes?

• Type 2 diabetes is a chronic condition affecting the way your body metabolizes glucose (sugar). The condition develops when your body becomes resistant to the effects of insulin, the hormone that regulates the absorption of sugar in your cells.

Ginseng

• According to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), ginseng, a common ingredient in Chinese longevity formulas, appears to normalize blood sugar levels. It is used widely for a number of conditions.

Bitter Melon

• Bitter melon may be beneficial in lowering blood sugar. It is not recommended for pregnant women and children.

Stevia

• Stevia (Stevia rebaudiana) is used traditionally in South America for the treatment of diabetes. Also used as a sweetener, do not confuse it with Stevia salicifolia.

Gymnema

• India has used the leaves of the gymnema plant for centuries to treat diabetes. It has no known side effects.

Warning About Fenugreek

• At one time, natural health practitioners recommended fenugreek for diabetes. However, the Mayo Clinic has determined that there is a possible increased risk of bleeding, causing the risks to outweigh the possible benefits.