Gymnema, an herb found in south central India, may have positive effects on diabetes, obesity, digestion, and weight loss. Its active component, gymnemic acids, can decrease sugar intake by impregnating taste buds and acting on the intestines. It can also stimulate insulin production and promote weight loss. However, sufficient evidence is lacking, and one should consult a doctor before taking the supplement regularly.
Gymnema, also commonly known as gymnema sylvestre, is an herb that grows in south central India, where it was first used in naturopathy or alternative medicine for its potential health benefits. Due to its effects on how the body reacts to and regulates sugar, many believe that this herb may have a positive effect on diabetes and obesity, as well as other conditions. It can also help with digestion.
The strongest active components of the plant are called gymnemic acids, taken from the leaves or the root. Acids affect two particular areas of the body. First, they can impregnate the taste buds on the tongue that detect sweet flavors. As the acids are digested, they act on the surface of the intestines. In both places, the herb can help decrease the intake of sugars.
By inhibiting the absorption of sugar, gymnema may help lower and regulate blood sugar levels, and is widely used as a supplement for people with type 1 and type 2 diabetes. The herb has also shown the ability to help to the body’s production of insulin. This may be because it can stimulate the growth of cells in the pancreas, the organ that produces insulin. The extract is not recommended by many professionals as a treatment on its own, but it can be taken along with insulin or other diabetes medications.
Gymnema can also promote weight loss. When the herb blocks the taste buds that detect the sweet sensation, cravings for sugar or a “sweet tooth” can be curbed. Supplements are available and commonly taken with meals because they can help the body process dense carbohydrates and sugars that would otherwise be stored as fat.
The herbal extract has been used for a wide variety of health benefits. Digestion may improve when the herb is taken due to its effects on the absorbent lining of the intestines, blocking food which can cause indigestion in some people. In addition, the extract can work as a diuretic, helping to dissipate excess water, and as a laxative. In India, gymnema has also been used topically to treat snake bites.
Sufficient evidence for gymnema has not yet been done, and one should consult a doctor before taking the supplement regularly, as allergies or problems during pregnancy or lactation may occur. Those already taking diabetes medication should be aware that gymnema can build up in the body and blood sugar levels can drop too low as a result. Those who need surgery should stop taking the herb at least two weeks beforehand, as the effect on blood sugar levels could cause problems.
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