Medicinal Plants and Herbs for Diabetes

Throughout history, many cultures have relied heavily on plants and herbs for medicinal purposes. Modern medicine is now looking at how these traditional sources can be used to treat and manage diabetes either along with conventional medications or on their own. The source and purity of an herb is crucial for effectiveness and to minimize any possible side effects. Professional guidance is always advised when using herbal remedies. Research has been conducted on many sources of medicinal herbs including the following:

Cinnamon

This popular spice has demonstrated an ability to increase insulin sensitivity and reduce both blood glucose and cholesterol levels in people with Type 2 diabetes (6,7). Diabetes Action funded research by Dr. Richard Anderson’s lab discovered that a new water-soluble poly-phenol type-A polymer was the most effective and safe ingredient (8). Because whole cinnamon includes fat soluble components such as coumarin, which may be toxic at high doses, only the water soluble extract with patented names such as Cinnulin PF or CinnSulin should be used. Additional studies funded by Diabetes Action found this same cinnamon extract has shown neuroprotective effects on the brain which can lead to improved prevention and treatment of Alzheimer’s disease (9). Many researchers are now calling Alzheimer’s Type 3 Diabetes.

Curcumin (Turmeric) –

A commonly used food spice that has been traditionally used for pain and wound healing but also appears to inhibit autoimmune disease by regulating inflammatory cytokines. Research has shown that curcumin may be 400 times more powerful than the common diabetes drug Metformin in improving insulin sensitivity and helping to reverse type 2 diabetes (10).

Evening Primrose Oil (Gamma linolenic acid or GLA) –

Defective fatty acid metabolism in diabetes may lead to impaired nerve function and can contribute to the development of peripheral neuropathy. Initial studies suggest that evening primrose oil, which is rich in gamma linolenic acid, improves blood flow and nerve function (11).

Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum) –

Fenugreek, a common ingredient in Indian and Middle Eastern cuisine, has been shown to help regulate blood sugar levels and increase good (HDL) cholesterol while lowering total cholesterol (12). In addition, fenugreek seeds are a good source of soluble fiber.

Flax (Linum usitatiisimum) –

Flax seed is one of nature’s richest sources of soluble fiber. Research has shown a significant improvement in glucose values by the intake of flax fiber (13). In addition, flax oil is an excellent source of alpha linolenic acid (omega-3 fatty acid). Either ground flax seed or its oil can be used in bread or muffins.

Ginger (Zingiber officinale) –

Most commonly used as a flavoring for food, ginger may also be taken orally in higher amounts for various kinds of digestive relief. Limited studies in animals with diabetes show that ginger may reduce blood levels of sugar and cholesterol (14,15,16).

Ginko Biloba –

For patients with type 2 diabetes who were poorly managed on metformin, the addition of a Ginkgo Biloba extract was effective in improving treatment outcomes. (17)

Gurmar (Gymnema sylvestre) –

In a 2000 study conducted by Diabetes Educators, 65 patients showed a significant reduction in A1C levels when they took a commercial supplement that contained 400 mg of gymnema sylvestre leaf extract (18).

Hydroxycitric Acid (HCA) –

This herbal compound found naturally in the grindle berry, Garcinia Cambogia, may play an essential role in lowering cholesterol and for weight reduction by suppressing appetite. Mixed results and potential side effects show the need for further research. HCA should not be used by anyone taking either cholesterol or diabetes medications (19).

Lagerstoemia speciosa –

This plant is commonly called Banaba in the Philippines, also known as Crepe Myrtle, Queen’s Flower or Pride of India. It has been shown to regulate blood glucose levels by increasing insulin action (20).

Onions and Garlic (Allium cepa and Allium sativum) –

The use of onions and garlic to reduce blood sugar levels has been popular in Asia, Europe and the Middle East. These plants contain the sulfur compounds allicin and allyl propyl DI sulphide which have chemical structures similar to insulin, and therefore are believed to reduce blood sugar.

Pomegranate (Punica granatum) –

This delicious fruit contains many beneficial substances such as polyphenols, that have antioxidant, anti-viral, and anti-tumor properties. Its clinical role is being explored now with encouraging initial results in lowering lipid levels in people with diabetes (21) and improving blood flow to the heart (23).

Pycogenol –

This extract of pine bark has been used in some countries to treat diabetic retinopathy and diabetic ulcers. A German study showed a positive effect on lowering glucose levels (24).

Red Yeast Rice (monascus purpureus) –

Although many doctors prescribe satin drugs to lower LDL cholesterol levels, research has shown similar anti inflammatory and lipid lowering effects from taking red yeast rice. However, this should only be taken under medical supervision as the red yeast rice extract does contain the same chemicals as the prescription drug lovastatin (25).

Resveratrol –

This polyphenolic compound is found in various plants such as grapes and berries. There has been compelling evidence on the strong anti-inflammatory potential of Resveratrol as an anti-aging agent (26).

Silymarin (Milk Thistle) –

This herb has been used to treat liver diseases for many years. Recent research has shown that silymarin reduces insulin resistance and significantly decreases fasting insulin levels and lowering liver enzyme levels better than patients taking metformin  (27).

Sulforaphane –

This phytochemical is found in calciferous vegetables such as broccoli, kale, and cabbage. It has not only shown strong cancer preventive actions, but has been able to show a reduction of blood sugars by 10% (28).

Tea (camellia genesis) –

Due to its high antioxidant poly phenol content, in traditional Chinese and Indian medicine, green tea has been used successfully in promoting digestion, wound healing, lowering blood glucose, and improving heart health. Research shows that black, green, and oblong teas increase insulin sensitivity (29). However, herbal teas were not effective because they do not contain camellia senses.make a donation

Seven herbs and supplements for type 2 diabetes

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Diabetes is a lifelong condition that affects the blood sugar and insulin levels in the body. Treatment includes lifestyle strategies and sometimes medication, but some complementary therapies, such as herbs and supplements, may help.

In diabetes, the body either does not produce enough insulin or produces insulin that the body does not use properly.

Herbs and supplements will not cure diabetes and do not constitute a standalone treatment, but some may combine with conventional treatment to provide relief from symptoms and reduce the risk of complications.

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7 herbs and supplements

Here are seven herbs and supplements that may be of benefit to people with type 2 diabetes.

1. Aloe vera

Consuming aloe vera pulp might help repair and protect the pancreas.

Aloe vera is a common plant with many different uses. Many people are aware of its benefits for skin care, but it may also have other benefits, including slowing the progress of type 2 diabetes.

One review, published in 2013, looked at the use of aloe vera to treat symptoms of diabetes in rats. Findings suggested that aloe vera might help protect and repair the beta cells in the pancreas that produce insulin. The researchers believed this might be due to aloe’s antioxidant effects.

The researchers called for more research into aloe and its extracts to be sure of these effects.

Aloe vera juice may offer a number of health benefits. Find out more here.

Click here to purchase aloe vera supplements online. Please note that this link will take you to the website of an external vendor.

2. Cinnamon

Cinnamon is a fragrant spice that comes from the bark of a tree. It is a popular ingredient in sweets, baked goods, and other dishes.

It has a taste that can add sweetness without any additional sugar. It is popular with people with type 2 diabetes for this reason alone, but it may also offer other benefits.

It did not appear to have a significant impact on hemoglobin A1C. The A1C test is a standard test for diagnosing and monitoring diabetes.

Nevertheless, lipids, cholesterol, and insulin sensitivity are all important markers for people with diabetes.

In both studies, the researchers note that the results may depend on:

Most studies have not involved humans, so there is a lack of evidence about how cinnamon might affect people, including its possible side effects. Scientists need to carry out more research to confirm the safety and effectiveness of cinnamon as a therapy.

Anyone who is thinking of using cinnamon supplements should speak to their doctor first.

3. Bitter melon

Momordica charantia, or bitter melon, is a medicinal fruit. Practitioners of traditional Chinese and Indian medicine have used bitter melon for centuries. People can cook the fruit and use it in many dishes. Some scientists have been looking into its potential medicinal uses.

There is some evidence that bitter melon may help with the symptoms of diabetes. One review has noted that people have used many parts of the plant to help treat diabetes.

Research has shown that taking bitter melon in the following forms can lead to a reduction in blood sugar levels in some people:

Eating or drinking the bitter melon can be an acquired taste, but taking supplements may make it more palatable.

There is not enough evidence to support using bitter melon instead of insulin or medication for diabetes.

However, it may help people rely less on those medications or lower their dosages.

Learn more here about the impact bitter melon can have on blood sugar levels.

4. Milk thistle

Milk thistle may have anti-inflammatory properties, making it potentially useful for people with diabetes.

People have used milk thistle since ancient times for many different ailments, and especially as a tonic for the liver.

Silymarin, the extract from milk thistle that has received the most attention from scientists, is a compound with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. These are the properties that may make milk thistle a useful herb for people with diabetes.

Many of the studies on silymarin are promising, but the research is not strong enough to recommend the herb or extract alone for diabetes care, according to one review published in 2016.

There appear to be no reports of significant side effects, and many people take milk thistle as a supplement. However, it is best to speak to a doctor first before using any supplements.

5. Fenugreek

Fenugreek is another seed that may help lower blood sugar levels.

The seeds contain fibers and chemicals that help to slow down the digestion of carbohydrates and sugar.

There is also some evidence that the seeds may help delay or prevent the onset of type 2 diabetes.

Findings of a 3-year investigation published in 2015 noted that people with prediabetes were less likely to receive a diagnosis of type 2 diabetes while taking powdered fenugreek seed.

The researchers concluded that taking the seed led to:

The study involved 66 people with diabetes who took 5 grams (g) of the seed preparation twice a day before meals, and 74 controls, who did not take it.

A person can:

6. Gymnema

Gymnema sylvestre is a herb that comes from India. Its name means “sugar destroyer.”

A 2013 review noted that people with both type 1 and type 2 diabetes who took gymnema showed signs of improvement.

In people with type 1 diabetes who took the leaf extract for 18 months, fasting blood sugar levels fell significantly, compared with a group who received only insulin.

Other tests using gymnema found that people with type 2 diabetes responded well to both the leaf and its extract over various periods.

Using either the ground leaf or leaf extract may be beneficial. But once again, talk to your doctor about using it before starting.

7. Ginger

There is some evidence that ginger can lower blood sugar levels.

Ginger is another herb that people have used for thousands of years in traditional medicine systems.

People often use ginger to help treat digestive and inflammatory issues.

However, in 2015, a review suggested that it may also help treat diabetes. The results showed that ginger lowered blood sugar levels, but did not lower blood insulin levels.

Because of this, they suggest that ginger may reduce insulin resistance in the body for type 2 diabetes.

However, the researchers were uncertain as to how ginger might do this, and they called for more research to confirm these findings.