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Gymnema
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Common names:
Gurmar, GurmarbootiBotanical names:
Gymnema sylvestreParts Used & Where Grown
Gymnema sylvestre is a woody climbing plant that grows in the tropical forests of central and southern India. The leaves are used in herbal medicine preparations. G. sylvestre is known as "periploca of the woods" in English and meshasringi (meaning “ram’s horn”) in Sanskrit. The leaves, when chewed, interfere with the ability to taste sweetness, which explains the Hindi name gurmar—“destroyer of sugar.”
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Reliable and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit.
Contradictory, insufficient, or preliminary studies suggesting a health benefit or minimal health benefit.
For an herb, supported by traditional use but minimal or no scientific evidence. For a supplement, little scientific support.
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This supplement has been used in connection with the following health conditions:
| Used for | Amount | Why |
|---|---|---|
Type 1 Diabetes | 800 mg per day of an herbal extract standardized for 25% gymnemic acids | Gymnema may help normalize blood sugar control in people with type 1 diabetes. |
| ||
| Used for | Amount | Why |
|---|---|---|
Type 2 Diabetes | 800 mg daily of an herbal extract standardized for 25% gymnemic acids | Gymnema may stimulate the pancreas to produce insulin and may help normalize blood sugar control in people with diabetes. |
| ||
Traditional Use (May Not Be Supported by Scientific Studies)
Gymnema has been used in India for the treatment of type 1 and type 2 diabetes for over 2,000 years. The leaves were also used for stomach ailments, constipation, water retention, and liver disease.
Also indexed as:
- botanicals,
- gurmar,
- gymnema,
- Gymnema sylvestre,
- gymnemic acid,
- herbal dietary supplements,
- herbal medicine,
- herbal remedies,
- herbal therapy,
- herbalism,
- plant Medicine
About this treatment
Common names:
Gurmar, GurmarbootiBotanical names:
Gymnema sylvestreHow It Works
The hypoglycemic (blood sugar-lowering) action of gymnema leaves was first documented in the late 1920s. This action is attributed to members of a family of substances called gymnemic acids. Gymnema leaves raise insulin levels, according to research in healthy volunteers. Based on animal studies, this may be due to regeneration of the cells in the pancreas that secrete insulin, or by increasing the flow of insulin from these cells. Other animal research shows that gymnema can also reduce glucose absorption from the intestine, improve uptake of glucose into cells, and prevent adrenal hormones from stimulating the liver to produce glucose, thereby reducing blood sugar levels.
Other animal studies have shown that extracts of gymnema leaves can lower serum cholesterol and triglycerides and prevent weight gain, but these effects have not been tested in humans. When placed directly on the tongue, gurmarin, another constituent of the leaves, and gymnemic acid have been shown to block the ability in humans to taste sweets.
How to Use It
Clinical trials with diabetics in India have used 400 mg per day of a water-soluble acidic fraction of the gymnema leaves. The gymnemic acid content of this extract is not clear. A recent preliminary trial in the United States reported promising results in a group of type 1 and type 2 diabetics who took 800 mg per day of an extract standardized for 25% gymnemic acids. Traditionally, 2 to 4 grams per day of the leaf powder is used.
Last Review: 05-11-2011
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The information presented in Aisle7 is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over the counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires June 2011.
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