Herbal Remedies for Diabetes
Diabetes affects millions of men, women and children around the world. There are two types of diabetes — Type I and Type 2. Individuals with Type 1 diabetes often have to take insulin daily, while those with Type 2 diabetes can often control their blood glucose levels with diet, exercise and even herbs. Herbal remedies for diabetes should never be used without the consent of your doctor or a licensed herbalist or naturopath. Many herbs are safe and well-tolerated but can interact with certain other medications or cause allergic reactions in some individuals.
When combined with a healthy diet and exercise, herbs can often help lower blood sugar. Some of the herbs thought to be helpful are very common and used for everyday cooking and seasoning of foods. Cinnamon is a good example of a common herb that can be used in an attempt to lower blood sugar. Dosages are of course much higher than what you would use to flavor your toast or coffee. Most people who use cinnamon for medicinal purposes purchase it in capsule form.
Turmeric is another common spice which is used for cooking. A common ingredient in Indian and Caribbean recipes, turmeric is a member of the ginger family which may offer many medicinal benefits. Studies conducted on laboratory rats showed the active ingredient in turmeric to be effective for lowering blood glucose levels. Such tests on humans have not been conducted but many people still swear by the therapeutic effects of this herb.
One of the most potentially beneficial herbs for individuals with diabetes is stevia. It does not lower blood glucose, but rather is used as a sweetener which does not raise blood glucose. It is a healthy alternative to sugar and is commonly used as such in Asia. The use of stevia in the United States is becoming more popular as people are becoming more health conscious and looking for ways to enjoy a sweet taste without the dangers of sugar.
Herbal remedies for diabetes should never be used as a substitute for proper medical treatment. If you want to try herbs, do so under the strict supervision of your physician. He or she can monitor your progress and help you decide which herbs are most beneficial and which should be avoided. Many people who use herbal remedies seek the advice of naturopaths, who are trained to recommend herbs and foods for a variety of purposes. They cannot diagnose disease or prescribe medicine, but they can make expert recommendations.
