Herbs & Nutrients for Diabetics

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Effects of Bitter Melon on Diabetes JoAnn Guest Jun 09, 2003 16:28 PDT

Medical Abstract Title:

 

Natural Products Used for Diabetes.

 

Author:

 

Shapiro K, Gong WC

 

Source:

 

J Am Pharm Assoc (Wash). 2002;42(2):217-226.

 

Abstract:

 

OBJECTIVE: To review the efficacy and safety of natural products

commonly used for diabetes.

DATA SOURCES: English and Spanish-language journals retrieved through a

MEDLINE search of articles published between 1960 and December 2001

using these index terms: Opuntia, karela, gymnema, tecoma, alpha lipoic

acid, thioctic acid, ginseng, panaxans, and diabetes.

 

DATA SYNTHESIS: Natural products have long been used in traditional

systems of medicine for diabetes. Products in common use include nopal

(prickly pear cactus), fenu-greek, karela (bitter melon), gymnema,

tronadora, chromium, and alpha-lipoic acid. The popularity of

these products varies among people of different ethnicities. Nopal is

the most commonly used herbal hypoglycemic among persons of Mexican

descent. Karela is more commonly used by persons from Asian countries.

Some of these agents have gained universal appeal. For a select number

of products, studies have revealed single or multiple mechanisms of

action. For several of these, high soluble fiber content is a

contributing factor.

 

CONCLUSION: Based on the available evidence, several natural products in

common use can lower blood glucose in patients with diabetes. Commonly

used natural products often have a long history of traditional use, and

pharmacists who have a stronger understanding of these products are

better positioned to counsel patients on their appropriate use.

 

http://www.enzy.com/abstracts/display.asp?id=3604

 

 

 

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