Comprehensive Ayurvedic Herbs for Blood Sugar Support

[Guest guest]

Comprehensive Ayurvedic Herbs for Blood Sugar Support

by Dr. Aditya Sharma, Ph.D.,

Clinical Ayurvedic Specialist, Herbalist

 

Dr. Aditya Sharma, Ph.D., has over 20 years experience in the

nutritional and pharmaceutical field. His expertise is in the

formulation of vitamins, minerals and Ayurvedic herbs. He is also a

founder of the Geeta Ayurvedic Healing Center in Southern

California. Dr. Sharma practices Ayurvedic medicine and also teaches

the principles of Ayurveda.

 

http://www.nutricology.com/news/letters/2006mar_ayurvedicherbsbloodsu

gar.htm

 

For many years, Dr. Sharma has utilized a broad spectrum approach

involving a wide variety of Ayurvedic herbal and nutrient adaptogens

with his patients to help maintain blood sugar within healthy

levels. According to Dr. Sharma, the most common response of

benefits in patients occurs in 2-4 days, however, some patients

require up to 2-3 weeks. Dr. Sharma also states that the herbs are

appropriate for all three Ayurvedic doshas (Vata, Pitta and Kapha).

These herbs and nutrients include: Trigonella foenum-graecum extract

(fenugreek), Gymnema sylvestre extract (gurmar), guggul extract,

green tea extract, Azadirachta indica extract (neem), Eugenia

jambolana extract (jambu), Momordica charantia extract (bitter

melon), alpha-lipoic acid, chromium polynicotinate, vanadyl sulfate,

bilberry extract, turmeric (curcumin 95%), cayenne pepper extract,

banaba leaf extract, and cinnamon extract.

 

The following is Dr. Sharma's detailed description of these

compounds and their actions.

 

Trigonella Foenum-Graecum Extract (Fenugreek)

Fenugreek has a long history in Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine for

numerous indications, including labor induction, aiding digestion,

and as a general tonic to improve metabolism and health. Preliminary

animal and human trials suggest that fenugreek seed powder may help

support blood sugar as well as blood lipids within normal levels.1

 

Fenugreek contains a number of steroidal sapogenins. The alkaloids

trigonelline, trigocoumarin, trimethyl coumarin and nicotinic acid

are also present. Mucilage is a prominent constituent in the seeds.2

Fenugreek has been mentioned in early literature as a blood sugar

stabilizing agent and such effects have been evaluated.3 Rat studies

have shown it to support healthy mucosa of the stomach.4 Its effects

have been observed for supporting cholesterol within normal

levels.5,6 It is used as an adjunct in maintaining normal blood

sugar levels, and is also supportive in maintaining blood lipids

within normal levels.7

 

Altern Med Rev 2003;8(1):20-27

Hardman, R.J. et al.: Phytochemistry 19 :698 (1980)

Sulman, F.G. and E.Menczel: Harokeach Haire 9:6 (1962). Chem. Abstr.

57:11308 e(1962)

Al-Mesgakm I.A et al.: Abstr. Int. Symp. Chinese Med.Mat.Res. Hong

Kong, June 12, p. 48 (1984)

Singhal, .C. et al. Curr. Sci. 51 : 136 (1982)

Khare, A.K. et al : Ind. Drugs, February, p.191 (1982)

Selected Medicinal Plants of India, CHEMEXCIL, Mumbai (1992)

Gymnema Sylvestre Extract (Gurmar)

Gymnema sylvestre is a plant native to the tropical forests of

India, and has long been used for blood sugar support. There is some

evidence that suggests that gymnema's positive effects on blood

sugar are a result of it's regenerative and/or revitalizing effect

on the beta cells of the pancreas.

What Is Ayurveda?

 

Ayurveda, which literally means the knowledge and wisdom of life, is

the traditional healing system of India, which originated over 5000

years ago. Ayurveda is considered the healing side of Yoga.

Likewise, Yoga is the spiritual side of Ayurveda. Together, they

encompass a complete approach to the well being of the body, mind

and spirit. Ayurveda assists the body back to optimal health by

balancing the body and mind through the use of herbs, diet,

lifestyle, yoga and meditation, along with the ayurvedic cleansing

therapies known as Pancha Karma.

 

In Ayurveda, each individual has a unique nature or constitution

(prakruti) and is an individual blend of the three doshas, Vata,

Pitta, and Kapha. Each person's dosha determines what diet, herbs

and lifestyle will be in harmony with their nature. In Ayurveda, an

understanding of the constitution is essential in achieving optimal

health.

 

Recently, Ayurveda has had a profound impact upon the world of

healthcare. Popular books by Deepak Chopra, M.D., and others have

called attention to the potential of this ancient healing system.

Along with the potential to heal chronic diseases, Ayurveda promises

to improve health and increase longevity.

 

 

The leaves of gymnema contain several O-isopropylidene derivatives

of gymnemagenin, crystalline gymnemagenin, gymnestrogenin, and

gymnemic acid, which is a complex mixture of at least nine closely

related acidic glycosides.1,2,3 Research suggests that the topical

and selective anesthetic effect of the plant might result from the

competition between these active glycosides and sweet substances for

the receptor sites.6 In a study of 22 patients who were given 400 mg

gymnema extract daily along with their usual medications, all

patients demonstrated healthier blood sugar levels. Of 22 patients,

21 reported considerable improvement.9 It was postulated that

gymnema may enhance the production of insulin.10

 

Gymnemic acids are also useful for prevention of the formation of

dental plaque and caries.8 Gymnema also supports the heart and

circulatory system, as well as the uterus and urinary tract.7 It is

interesting to note that gymnema extract is without side effects and

supports blood sugar in a balanced way. When given to healthy

volunteers, gymnema demonstrated adaptogenic effects.11

 

Helv. Chim. Acta, 1969, 52:365

J. Pharma Sci., 1991, 60:190

Ibid, 1970, 59:622, 629

Ind. J. Physiol. Pharmacol., 1983, 27:257

Pharmacol. Res. Commun, 1981, 13(5) : 475

Nature, 1969, 223, 94

Yonga Igaku Zasshi 1987, 38, 127:chem. abst. 187, 107, 89854e.

Indian Materia Medica Vol.1, Dr. K.M. Nadkarni, Bombay Popular

Prakashan (1996)

Baskaran K, Kizar Ahamath B, Radha Shanmugasundaram K,

Shanmugasundaram ER. Antidiabetic effect of a leaf extract from

Gymnema sylvestre in non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus

patients. J Ethnopharmacol 1990;30:295-300.

Shanmugasundaram ER, Rajeswari G, Baskaran K, et al. Use of Gymnema

sylvestre leaf extract in the control of blood glucose in insulin-

dependent diabetes mellitus. J Ethnopharmacol 1990;30:281-294.

The Healing Power of Herbs pages - 358 & 359

Guggul Extract

Guggul resin contains a number of compounds including a diterpene

hydrocarbon, a diterpene alcohol, Z-gugulsterone, E-gugulsterone,

and Gugulsterols I, II and III.1 Guggul has undergone investigation

for its ability to support healthy blood lipid levels, which has

been recognized since the vedic ages. Oral administration of guggul

supports healthy cholesterol levels, which has been demonstrated in

animal studies.2,3 It may also be helpful for weight loss.4

 

Patil, N.D. et al: Tetrahedron 8 :2341 (1972)

Tripathi, S.N. Et al: J.Res.INd. Med.Res. 57: 900 (1969)

Das, D. et al: Ind.J.Pharmacol 5 : 223 (1973)

Selected Medicinal Plants of India, CHEMIXCIL, Mumbai (1992)

Green Tea Extract

Green tea extract contains polyphenols and an essential oil.1 The

polyphenols strengthen the walls of blood vessels, which are

responsible for regulating blood vessel permeability. Polyphenols

have been shown to protect ascorbic acid from oxidation in rat

tissue because of their antioxidant properties. This indicates an

important role of green tea in human nutrition in preventing

symptoms of ascorbic acid deficiency. Green tea polyphenols have

been found to support normal thyroid function. Green tea extract is

also well known for its immune-supporting properties. Green tea

polyphenols inhibit the growth of S.mutans, which is one of the

causes of dental caries, and has been reported to be more effective

in preventing tooth decay than fluoride compounds. Green tea also

supports the bladder, gallbladder and kidneys. In addition, green

tea extract was found to have strong immune supportive and

antioxidant activity, as well as being supportive for cellular

health, normal blood flow, and healthy cholesterol and blood

pressure levels.1-6

 

Green tea's ability to support healthy blood sugar levels has also

been confirmed in animal studies. The fact that aged rats responded

so dramatically to these polyphenols implies that they potentially

can inhibit age-related changes in blood sugar levels, which may

contribute to several degenerative conditions. Tea polyphenols

support healthy blood sugar levels by inhibiting the activity of

both salivary and intestinal amylase (the enzyme that breaks down

starch), which causes starch to be broken down more slowly,

minimizing spikes in blood sugar. In addition, according to a recent

study, tea may also reduce the intestinal absorption of glucose.

 

A relatively little known compound found in onions and in tea,

especially green tea, called diphenylamine, appears to support

healthy blood sugar levels. We are just beginning to identify these

significant phenolic compounds and their interactions, thus it is

best not to rely on a single constituent, but rather to ingest the

whole complex set of bioactive compounds present in tea for best

results. In addition, the blood sugar supporting effects of tea

offers significant anti-aging benefits through calorie restriction,

reduced glycation, and lower insulin secretion. Consuming a

carbohydrate-rich meal with tea will slow down the release of

glucose and reduce its absorption (it also reduces the absorption of

iron, another anti-aging benefit). By preventing the harmful spike

in insulin, tea offers other benefits that go with calorie

restriction and insulin support.7

 

Yoshizawas et al : Phytother. Res. 1, 44-46, 1987.

Lee M.H. et al: Chung-Kuo Nung yeh Hua Hsueh Hui Chih, 22, 226-231,

1984

Kada T. et al: Mutat. Res. 150, 127-132, 1985.

Okuda T. et al: JARQ 12, 27-32, 1978.

Hong Rx et al : Zhongxiyi Jiehe Zazhi, 8,621, 1988.

Matsuda H et al: J.Ethanopharmacol. 17, 213-214, 1986.

Deng ZY, Tao BY, et al. Effect of green tea and black tea on blood

glucose, triglycerides, and antioxidants in aged rats. J Agricult

Food Chem 1998;46:3875-78.

Azadirachta Indica Extract (Commonly known as Neem)

Neem contains bitters as well as quercetin and ß-sitosterol

glucoside.1 Aqueous extract of neem leaves has been shown to support

healthy blood sugar levels.2 Neem was also shown to support blood

pressure within normal levels.3 Neem has been commonly used to

maintain a healthy microbial environment in the digestive tract. A

single dose of 3 g in human subjects was found to be highly

effective, and a majority of follow-up stool samples were found to

be worm and ovum free. Neem has been found to be effective against

intestinal worms in farm animals.4

 

Shibata el al : Ind.J.Phram., 17:230 (1955)

Iketa T.: Nippon Kosholnin Kagakkushu 8(1):67:(1984)

Selected Medicinal Plants of India, CHEMEXCIL, NewDelhi (1992)

Hennemann,H. and G.Kunnert, Pharmazie 8:463 (1953)

Eugenia Jambolana Extract (Jambu)

Jambolana, or Jambolan, is a species of cloves used in Ayurvedic

medicine. It is used to support blood sugar within normal levels and

the health of the pancreas. Jambolan is preferred for blood sugar

support because it is without side effects. Jambolan may also

promote cardiovascular health because it contains oleanolic acid,

which short-circuits the chemical reactions that make toxic free

radicals. Oleanolic acid reduces the action of free radicals to

further enhance the cardiovascular benefits.1,2

 

Natural Treatments for Diabetes - page 21

Prescription for Herbal Healing - pages 84 & 85

Momordica Charantia Extract (Bitter Melon)

Momordica charantia, also known as bitter melon, balsam pear, or

karolla, has been referred to as both a vegetable and a fruit, and

is widely cultivated in Asia, Africa, and South America. It has been

used extensively in folk medicine as a remedy for blood sugar

conditions. The blood sugar-supporting action of the fresh juice or

unripe fruit has been established in experimental animal models, as

well as human clinical trials.1

 

Bitter melon contains several compounds with confirmed blood sugar

supporting properties. Bitter melon also contains an insulin-like

polypeptide called polypeptide-P, which is similar in structure to

bovine insulin.

 

Bitter melon's mechanism for supporting healthy blood sugar levels

is unknown, but in animal studies it has been proposed that it has a

direct action similar to insulin.2

 

The recommended dose of bitter melon depends on the form being

consumed. Dosage for tincture ranges from 5 mL 2-3 times daily to as

high as 50 mL per day.3 However, bitter melon juice is very

difficult to make palatable since, as the name implies, it is quite

bitter. To avoid the bitter taste, the Indians and Chinese crush the

herb and form tablets. In Central America, it is prepared as an

extract or decoction. Dosages of capsulized dried powder range from

3-15 g daily. However, to avoid the necessity of taking so many

capsules, a standardized extract may be used at dosages of 100-200

mg three times daily.

 

Welihinda J, Karunanayake EH, Sheriff MH, Jayasinghe KS. Effect of

Momordica charantia on the glucose tolerance in maturity onset

diabetes. J Ethnopharmacol 1986;17:277-282.

Akhtar MS, Athar MA, Yaqub M. Effect of Momordica charantia on blood

glucose level of normal and alloxan-diabetic rabbits. Planta Med

1981;42:205-212.

Mozersky RP. Herbal products and supplemental nutrients used in the

management of diabetes. J Am Osteopath Assoc 1999;99:S4-S9.

Alpha-Lipoic Acid

Alpha-Lipoic Acid (ALA) is a vitamin-like substance produced in

small amounts by the body, and is important to almost all cells. ALA

is found in just a few food sources, such as brewer's yeast, liver

and spinach. ALA assists the body's energy production and acts as a

powerful antioxidant, making it especially supportive for people

with blood sugar conditions.

 

Chromium Polynicotinate

Since as early as 1854, a substance was identified that improved

healthy blood sugar levels. It was a complex of chromium and several

amino acids that is now known as Glucose Tolerance Factor (GTF). GTF

chromium does not act like insulin, but rather, appears to enhance

insulin sensitivity. It has been noted that tissue concentrations of

chromium in the U.S. decline with age. Nearly 20 controlled studies

have demonstrated the positive effect of chromium for the management

of blood sugar. In clinical studies, supplementing the diet with

chromium has been shown to decrease fasting glucose levels, improve

glucose tolerance, lower insulin levels, and support healthy

cholesterol and triglyceride levels.1

 

Reversing Diabetes pages 89 & 90, The Pill Guide Book to Natural

Medicines - pages 128 & 129

Vanadyl Sulfate

Prior to the discovery of insulin in 1922, the trace mineral

vanadium was used because of its ability to mimic the activity of

insulin. Two small studies have confirmed the effectiveness of

vanadyl sulfate at a dose of 100 mg/day in improving insulin

sensitivity.1,2

 

Vanadyl sulfate is a biologically active form of vanadium. Because

of its insulin-like properties, vanadyl is being used to manage

blood sugar. Studies show that vanadyl is very effective in

normalizing blood sugar levels and controlling related conditions.3

 

Cohen N, Halberstam M, Shlimovich P, et al. Oral vanadyl sulfate

improves hepatic and peripheral insulin sensitivity in patients with

non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus. J Clin Invest 1995;95:2501-

2509.

Halberstam M, Cohen N, Shlimovich P, et al. Oral vanadyl sulfate

improves insulin sensitivity in NIDDM but not in obese nondiabetic

subjects. Diabetes 1996;45:659-666.

Earl Mindell's Supplement Bible page 157

Bilberry Extract

Bilberry is widely used for conditions related to or resulting from

blood sugar imbalances.

Bilberry also improves night vision, supports capillary strength,

supports healthy blood flow, and has antioxidant activity. Research

done mostly in Italy has also uncovered bilberry's potential for

supporting the retina and other eye conditions associated with poor

blood circulation.1

 

Journal of Longevity - Volume 5/No. 8, page 40, New Encyclopedia

Vitamins, Minerals, Supplements, & Herbs - page 386.

 

Turmeric (Curcumin 95%)

Curcuminoids, found in high concentrations in turmeric extract, have

been primarily recognized for their " super " antioxidant properties.

Curcuminoids are capable of both the prevention of free radical

formation and intervention to neutralize existing free radicals.

 

Curcuminoids are natural plant compounds that guard the cells,

tissues and organs of the body from numerous " inside " and " outside "

detrimental influences. Unlike other antioxidants, which have more

of a " policing effect " on such errant molecules, the turmeric

curcuminoids merge with the potential free radicals before they

form.

" In the traditional system of medicine Ayurveda, several spices and

herbs are thought to possess medicinal properties. Among these

spices, turmeric rhizomes (Curcuma longa. Linn.) are used as

flavoring and coloring agents in the Indian diet every day. "

 

Dr. Aditya Sharma, Ph.D.

 

 

Cayenne Pepper Extract

Cayenne contains capsaicin, the compound that produces the " hot " in

hot peppers. Cayenne is known to increase the metabolic rate, which

is one reason why people get so hot and sweaty after eating spicy

foods.1 One of the additional benefits of cayenne is its function as

a digestive aid. Cayenne increases the secretion of acids in the

stomach, which increases the absorption and effectiveness of other

herbs consumed with it. In a double-blind trial, reductions in

appetite were found in healthy Japanese women and Caucasian men when

they consumed cayenne pepper along with meals.2 A similar trial

showed that cayenne raised the metabolic rate in Japanese women.3

These trials suggest that cayenne may be beneficial for weight loss.

 

Henry, C. J. K., (1986). Effect of spiced food on metabolic rate.

Human Nutrition: Clinical Nutrition, 40, 165-168

Yoshioka, M., St-Pierre, S., & Drapeau, V. (1999). Effects of red

pepper on appetite and energy intake. British Journal of Nutrition,

82, 115-123

Yoshioka, M., St-Pierre, S., Suzuki, M., & Tremblay A. (1998).

Effects of red pepper added to high-fat and high-carbohydrate meals

on energy metabolism and substrate utilization in Japanese women.

British Journal of Nutrition, 80, 503-510.

Piper Nigrum & Vinca Rosea (Banaba Leaf Extract)

Banaba is a botanical extract that comes from the leaves of the

banaba tree. In Southeast Asia and the Philippines, the leaves are

traditionally used as an herbal medicine to treat diabetes and

hyperglycemia. Banaba balances blood sugar, regulates insulin

levels, and supports healthy weight loss.1

 

Corosolic acid, a triterpenoid found in the leaves, helps balance

blood sugar by stimulating glucose uptake. This effect is similar to

that of insulin, which induces glucose transport from the blood into

body cells.2,3 Animal studies have shown it to be supportive for

managing both blood sugar conditions and obesity.3-5

 

Researchers have found that corosolic acid is not the only active

ingredient in banaba leaves. Studies show that banaba contains at

least three other active ingredients including lagerstroemin, flosin

B and reginin A. These natural phytochemicals regulate glucose

uptake, and may play a role in banaba's ability to support healthy

blood sugar levels.6,7

 

The blood sugar regulating properties of banaba have been

demonstrated in cell culture and animal and human studies. In an

animal study, banaba normalized blood sugar, and also had a

normalizing effect on blood pressure.3-5,7 In a human study, banaba

extract showed significant blood sugar stabilizing effects.8

 

American Diabetes Association, http://www.diabetes.org/diabetes-

statistics/national-diabetes-fact-sheet.jsp (29 July 2004)

Hattori K, Sukenobu N, Sasaki T, Takasuga S, Hayashi T, Kasai R,

Yamasaki K, Hazeki O. Activation of insulin receptors by

lagerstroemin. J Pharmacol Sci. 2003 Sep;93(1):69-73.

Suzuki Y, Unno T, Ushitani M, Hayashi K, Kakuda T. " Antiobesity

activity of extracts from Lagerstroemia speciosa L. leaves on female

KK-Ay mice. " J Nutr Sci Vitaminol (Tokyo) 1999 Dec;45(6):791-5.

Liu F, Kim J, Li Y, Liu X, Li J, Chen X. An extract of Lagerstroemia

speciosa L. has insulin-like glucose uptake-stimulatory and

adipocyte differentiation-inhibitory activities in 3T3-L1 cells. J

Nutr. 2001 Sep;131(9):2242-7.

Hayashi T, Maruyama H, Kasai R, Hattori K, Takasuga S, Hazeki O,

Yamasaki K, Tanaka T. Ellagitannins from Lagerstroemia speciosa as

activators of glucose transport in fat cells. Planta Med. 2002 Feb;68

(2):173

Hosoyama H, Sugimoto A, Suzuki Y, Sakane I, Kakuda T. [isolation and

quantitative analysis of the alpha-amylase inhibitor in

Lagerstroemia speciosa (L.) Pers. (Banaba)] Yakugaku Zasshi. 2003

Jul;123(7):599-605. [Article in Japanese]

Kakuda T, Sakane I, Takihara T, Ozaki Y, Takeuchi H, Kuroyanagi M.

Hypoglycemic effect of extracts from Lagerstroemia speciosa L.

leaves in genetically diabetic KK-AY mice. Biosci Biotechnol

Biochem. 1996 Feb;60(2):204-8.

Judy WV, Hari SP, Stogsdill WW, Judy JS, Naguib YM, Passwater R.

Antidiabetic activity of a standardized extract (Glucosol) from

Lagerstroemia speciosa leaves in Type II diabetics. A dose-

dependence study. J Ethnopharmacol. 2003 Jul;87(1):115-7.

Cinnamon Extract

Cinnamon has been in the news lately because it is proving to be

effective in supporting healthy blood sugar and cholesterol within

normal levels. Dr. Richard Anderson and his research team at the

U.S. Department of Agriculture have been studying the effects of

cinnamon on improving insulin, blood sugar and blood lipid

metabolism for the past 20 years. In 2004, they identified

cinnamon's bioactive compound polyphenol type-A polymer.1 Before

that, Anderson worked with a team of researchers in Pakistan to test

cinnamon extract's ability to lower glucose and lipid levels in 60

patients.2 One group received a placebo, while the other received

cinnamon in daily amounts of 1, 3, or 6 grams. The treatment lasted

40 days.2 The results were dramatic. All three cinnamon doses had a

strong impact on blood sugar levels, reducing them by 18-29%

following 40 days of treatment. Positive effects on blood lipid

levels were also observed. By contrast, the placebo group had no

significant effect on either measure. The highest dose (6 g/ day)

produced the most rapid response, while the lowest dose (1 g/day)

produced the most sustained response, i.e., a continued reduction in

glucose levels even at the 60-day mark; the reduction observed was

16%. The two higher doses produced slightly lower sustained

responses, which were not statistically significant.1 Researchers

also noted blood sugar problems returned when subjects stopped

taking cinnamon.

 

Anderson R et al. Isolation and characterization of polyphenol type-

A polymers from cinnamon with insulin-like biological activity. J

Agric Food Chem 2004, 52:65-70.

Khan A, Safdar M, Khan MMA, Khattak KN, Anderson RA. Cinnamon

improves glucose and lipids of people with type 2 diabetes. Diabetes

Care 2003 Dec;26(12):3215-8. http://care.diabetesjournals.org.

 

 

---

-----------

Focus on Allergy Research Group®

Editor-in-Chief: Stephen A. Levine, Ph.D.

Managing Editor: Elise Zurlo, CNC

Medical Editor: Jeffry L. Anderson, M.D.

Assistant Editors: Dan Milosevich, CN and Luba Voloshko, Ph.D.

Graphic Design & Layout: Elise Zurlo & Blake Dayton