Gymnema sylvestre for Diabetes and Weight Loss
Answered by: Susan Eagles
Question from: Hope
Posted on: September 4, 2002

I have have been taking 2 Gymnema pills twice a day (385 mgs) with great results. I am able to pass up sweets now for the 1st time. My excess weight is coming off! What can you tell me about this herb and are there any dangers?

Gymnema sylvestre is an Ayurvedic herb that is now being used in both early and late onset diabetes. Its Hindi name is Gurmar, meaning "sugar destroying". Research shows that Gymnema stimulates insulin secretion, regulating blood sugar levels in diabetic test animals. The dosage recommended for diabetes is 500-1000 mg in pill form three times a day, or 5 - 10 ml daily of a 1:1 liquid extract.

Gymnema numbs the taste of sweet for about 20 minutes and decreases the appetite for about 90 minutes. The recommended dosage for sweet cravings is 1-2 ml daily of the liquid extract. Drops can be applied every few hours directly to the tongue, and rinsed off after one minute.

There are no reported adverse effects. Gymnema should not be used by people with low blood sugar.

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