Herbal Support for Diabetes

There are a great many herbal protocols that can be successful in treating diabetes and helping to control one's blood glucose level. The following are some suggested herbs that may be beneficial for diabetics:

Morus Indica (common Mulberry): shown to possess significant hypoglycemic effects in animal studies and contains an effective alpha-glucosidase inhibitor along with other compounds that appear to improve blood glucose control; significant antioxidant effect as well as decrease of membrane cholesterol

Gymnema: enhances production or activity of insulin

Momordica charantia (bitter melon): taken via extract or fresh juice but drinking the juice is best; contains blood-glucose lowering properties such as charantin which is a hypoglycemic agent

Allium Sativum (Garlic): stabilizes blood sugar and helps reduce risk of heart disease and other circulatory disorders by improving blood flow, lowering elevated blood pressure and reducing levels of "bad" cholesterol

Vaccinium myrtillus (bilberry): may help to prevent diabetic retinopathy and cataracts

Trigonella foenum-graecum (fungreek): helps to stabilize blood glucose through the active principles in the soluble fiber as well as the alkaloid trigonelline. Appears to be helpful for both type 1 and type 2 diabetics

Ginkgo biloba: stimulates blood flow; necessary to help prevent circulatory disorders associated with diabetes

Oenothera biennis (evening primrose): may help prevent and treat diabetic neuropathy

Panax Ginseng: one of the most evidence-based herbal therapy for type 2 diabetes; reduces fasting glucose, elevates mood and improved psycho-physiologic performance

Banaba leaf: shown in animal and human studies to lower blood-sugar levels

As with any suggested herbal protocols, first check with a licensed naturopath, herbalist or nutritionist for recommended dosage and if any contraindications are present.