Gymnema

Species Name: Gymnema Sylvestris.

Also known as: Gurmar, Meshashringi, Meshashringi, Vishani, Madhunashini, Periploca sylvestris Willd, Gymnema melicida Edgew.

In ancient time gymnema was known as the “destroyer of sugar” because it was discovered that if a person chewed some of the leaves of this herb they lost their desire to eat something sweet for a while.

This was mainly because it seemed to change the taste of sweets and therefore made them less desirable.

What is Gymnema: Gymnema is a native of the mainland of India and is also found in different areas of Africa. It is considered a vine-like plant because it can climb onto surrounding tress and brushes.

It belongs to the Asclepiadaceae family and grows wild in thickets, jungles and other wooded areas.

The leaves and roots are the parts of the gymnema plant that are used for herbal remedies. It was ones used as a snake bite remedy which earned it the name “ram’s horn” a long time ago.

It has a lot of branches that twist and turn. It also has flowers that are a greenish yellow in color. The flowers appear on the plant during the months from August to March.

Home remedies using Gymnema:

Benefits of Gymnema:

The greatest benefit of gymnema is the treatment of diabetes. It helps to boost insulin levels and aids in keeping your blood sugar levels down to a more normal level.

It can help to block sugar absorption and decrease the amount of sugar that you crave. It can also reduce the symptom of glycosuria, which is when carbohydrates are found in your urine.

Due to the fact that gymnema can reduce your cravings for sweets it is beneficial in weight management, hypoglycemia and lowering your cholesterol. It is also used for anemia and digestion problems.

Uses of Gymnema:

  • Diabetes
  • Hypoglycemia
  • Weight management
  • Cholesterol
  • Anemia
  • Tea
  • Liquid extracts
  • Capsules

Side Effects of Gymnema:

At this time there are no known side effects to using gymnema however, because it can reduce your blood sugar levels it is possible for these levels to drop to low. If this happens you could experience sweating, confusion, shakiness, slurred speech and loss if muscle control.

This could be serious if left untreated therefore; if you experience any of these symptoms you should seek medical attention. It is also advised that nursing or pregnant women do not use this herb.