Best Herbs to Lower Blood Sugar

We happen to live in the times where most prescriptions will not only drain you financially but also have numerous side effects. It is for this reason that people have been seeking alternatives and it has all been for the worthy course. The same is true when it comes to type 2 diabetes since most people are opting out of prescription and instead opting for a change if lifestyle, adopting a healthy diet and taking natural supplements all in attempt to maintain stable regular blood glucose levels. There are also those who opt to use herbs and all have proved to work better with fewer side effects compared to diabetes meds.

Whether you are a diabetic or not, maintaining stable blood glucose levels should be your top priority! Basically, unstable blood sugar levels can have serious health effects if left no precautions are taken. On the positive side, there are spices and herbs that have been scientifically proven to lower blood glucose levels for both people living with diabetes and the pre-diabetics. As well know herbs and spices have numerous health benefits other than lowering the blood sugar levels and this means that you will not only lower the blood glucose levels but also the overall health benefits.

It is, however, important to know that not everything qualifies to be called herbs. Some are poisonous whereas others won’t serve the intended purpose.

It is also important to know that herbs are from the green and leafy part and not the roots. However, spices are from the other parts of a plant other than the green and leafy parts. Spices are derived from parts such as seeds, barks, bulb, roots, and stems.

Well, now that you are enlightened on that field we can proceed and have a look at some of the most popular herbs and spices. Normally, animals are used as test subjects when performing dietary experiments, however, in this case, some of the herbs and spices such as ginger and garlic are already considered as food. This means that most people consume them as part of their day to day diet without necessarily knowing the additional health benefits. And, since most of the herbs have no noted side effects most of these herbs have been tested on humans and have been proved to work.

14 of the best herbs that will definitely lower your blood glucose levels

Gymnema Sylvestre

This is by far the best herb to consider if you want to lower your blood sugar levels. How does Gymnema Sylvestre help in lowering glucose levels in the blood? It improved how glucose is utilized in the body cells and as a result reducing the levels in the bloodstream. This herb also inhibits the release of more glucose by the lover into the blood. This in return will help lower the triglycerides and cholesterol levels. The herb works to both people with type 1 diabetes and types 2 diabetes. Gymnema Sylvestre also helps in rejuvenating the beta cells found in the pancreas as a result, curing the condition.

Basically, the herb was natively grown in South and Central India and has been used as traditional medicine dating back to the 6th century BC. It is believed that the herbs have a compound gymnemic acid which has been scientifically proven to have the ability to slow the absorption of glucose into the bloodstream. There are also those scientists who believe that Gymnema Sylvestre extracts have the ability to rejuvenate the beta cells in the pancreas and hence facilitate the production of insulin.

In yet another experiment conducted with rats as subjects, the extracts of the herb when administered to the rats were able to basically double the number of islets they regenerated as well as the beta cells. The conclusion was that this lowered the blood glucose levels as well as increase the amount of insulin secreted in the body.

Cinnamon

Cinnamon is relatively famous both in the cosmetic industry and the medical industry. Cinnamon has been found to affect the glycemic and lipid profile of people living with type 2 diabetes positively. This is attributed largely to the 18% polyphenol. Cinnamon is a native Indian spice and helps maintain stable blood glucose levels by improving the sensitivity of insulin. If the publication on the American Board of Family Medicine, it was found that cinnamon helps lower the HbA1C by 0.83% which is higher than the 0.37% in standard prescriptions. Taking cinnamon also helps in lowering the serum HbA1C to people with type 2 diabetes.

Cloves

According to experiments done to rats as the test subjects, it was found that cloves protected the liver and the heart. Basically, the spice has 30% antioxidant phenol that is in form of dry weight. This is not the only antioxidant since cloves also have antioxidants quercetin and anthocyanins. This means that cloves possess both germicidal and antiseptic properties. You will also get analgesic and anti-inflammatory benefits all which are vital for people with diabetes.

In yet another study, 36 people were used as test subjects and divided into 4 groups which were given 3, 2, 1 and 0 clover in a day. This was followed up by a 10-day washout. The results were as follows:

  • Serum glucose reduced from to 150 from 225 mg/dL with an error margin of 46 and 67 respectively.
  • The triglycerides reduced to 203 from 235 mg/ dL with an error margin of 86 and 63 respectively.
  • Total serum cholesterol reduced to 239 from 273 mg/dL with an error margin of 47 and 78 respectively.
  • LDL reduced to 145 from 175 mg/dL with an error margin of 44 and 73 respectively.

Rosemary

Most people know rosemary for its aromatic flavor that is used to add flavor in soups and meat. But did you know that Rosemary helps in maintaining stable blood sugar levels? Well, now you know. Rosemary also helps in weight loss which is a major concern when it comes to people with diabetes. In a recent study where rats were used as test subjects, it was found that rosemary helps in lowering the lipid profile as well as the glucose levels in normal rats and those with diabetes. In the study when rosemary extracts were administered to rats with diabetes for a period of 4 weeks it was found that the blood glucose levels decreased by 20%, cholesterol levels decreased by 22%, triglyceride levels decreased by 24% whereas the HDC raised by 18%. The findings of this study were published in 2012.

Oregano

This herb is quite popular in Italy, Spanish and the Mediterranean region and is famous for its ability to lower blood glucose levels. In a study that was done in Mexico with diabetic rats as test subjects, it was found that when oregano was induced to them it increased the oxidative stress by inhibiting lipid peroxidants. Oregano also has the ability to delay or rather prevent renal damage. Well, next time you are cooking make sure that this herb is part of the ingredients.

Sage

If the finding of the British Journal of Nutrition is anything to go by then we can comfortably say that sage has effects similar to those of metformin. This makes sage an essential ingredient when preparing meals. This herb has been used as traditional medicine for decades if not centuries due to its ability to reduce the blood glucose levels. It is important to note that taking too much sage along with diabetes meds can cause your blood sugar levels to fall below average leading to a condition known as hypoglycemia. Always monitor your blood glucose levels when taking sage.

Curry leaves

Curry leaves are yet another native Indian spice and are famous for its ability to stabilize the blood sugar levels and speed up the carbohydrate metabolism. According to an Indian study that investigates the effects of curry leaves on people living with type 2 diabetes, it was found that curry leaves have a compound phytochemical that helps control the blood glucose levels. Curry leaves reduce the postprandial and fasting blood glucose levels in people with type 2 diabetes. In the study, diabetic rats were used as test subjects and after curry leaves were administered to the rats it helps influence the metabolism of carbohydrates as well as improved how the kidney and the liver functioned. Curry leaves also help in the secretion of insulin by speeding up the rate on which pancreatic cells are made.

Garlic

Based on the findings of a study published in 2005, when garlic was administered to diabetic rats orally. It was found to lower the serum glucose levels, levels of bad cholesterol, urea, triglycerides, uric acid, AST, and creatinine. At the same time, the levels of serum insulin increased in diabetic rats used as test subjects, the rise in serum insulin was not found in rats that had no diabetes. These are the properties that make garlic a crucial spice in most recipes.

Ginger

Other than soothing the stomach and helping in the digestion process ginger also has the ability to maintain stable blood glucose levels. In several experiments where rats were used as test subjects, ginger was found to reduce the levels of bad cholesterol and triglycerides while at the same time raise the levels of bad cholesterol. Most diabetic people have digestion disorders and this is soothed by ginger.

Turmeric

Turmeric possesses anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and antioxidant properties all which help the diabetic maintain stable blood glucose levels. Turmeric helps in boosting the immunity system and as a result reducing the risk of contacting most diseases that diabetics are prone to. Curcumin is the active ingredient contained in turmeric and helps in reducing the plasma sugar levels, HbA1C and improves the lipid profile. The anti-inflammatory properties of turmeric help in reducing joint pains which is a condition relatively common among the diabetic.

Cayenne

Basically, carbohydrates are broken down into glucose in the small intestines where they are absorbed into the blood. When you add spices like cayenne to your diet it helps the absorption process and this will naturally stabilize the blood glucose levels. By using cayenne wisely you will be tapping into its inflammatory properties as well.

Marjoram

For a herb that helps lower the blood sugar levels marjoram is a herb that can be used as a substitute for oregano to add a distinct flavor to the food. Being rich in polyphenols it helps stabilize blood sugar levels. Based on a 2012 publication marjoram helps in reducing the formation of AGE (Advanced Glycation End)! This is a compound responsible for the most complications diabetics experience.

Fenugreek

Studies have shown that fenugreek seeds help in lowering the blood sugar levels by slowing down the absorption of carbs in the small intestines. Fenugreek performs the same faction as acarbose which is a diabetic prescription. You can either soak the fenugreek seeds overnight then use them as an ingredient in a recipe, use the seeds when in powder form or even chew the soaked seeds raw.

Ginseng

Ginseng not only reduces the resistance of insulin but also reduces the HbA1C.  In China, this herb has been used for centuries due to the ability to lower blood sugar levels. Ginseng found in India helps cure both Alzheimer’s and diabetes.

Herbs in lowering blood sugar levels

Most of the herbs and herbs that possess the ability to reduce blood sugar levels are not only to find but are tasty and will add a unique flavor to your food.

Best Effective Home Remedies for Diabetes

The following are the top ten ways in which you can cure diabetes while at the comfort of your home. However, it is important to note that you first have to consult with your doctor since some of these remedies can react negatively with the diabetes meds.

  1. Bitter Gourd

Famously known as bitter lemons these fruits play a major role in regulating blood glucose levels by lowering the effects of glucose in the blood. Unlike most other fruits which only influence glucose metabolism in just one organ. With bitter gourd, the regulation occurs in every part of the body.

Bitter gourd helps in reducing cell insulin resistance and increase the amount of insulin secreted by the pancreas. Therefore making it suitable for people with either type 2 diabetes or type 1 diabetes. It is, however, important to note that bitter lemons cannot be used as a complete replacement of insulin shots/treatment.

  • For efficiency, it is advisable that you drink juice made from a bitter gourd in the morning when your stomach is empty. You should first remove the seeds then extract the juice using a juicer. Add some water to dilute it then take it. Repeat this procedure for at least 2 months.
  • You can also use a bitter guard as an ingredient in one of the dishes in your diet.
  1. Cinnamon

Cinnamon in powder form has been documented to help lower the blood sugar levels by increasing the secretion of insulin and increasing its efficiency in the cells. The bioactive components contained in cinnamon helps in fighting the effects of diabetes in the body.

Studies and experiments have shown that cinnamon has the ability to lower the blood glucose levels in people living with type 2 diabetes.

Despite the benefit, cinnamon bought in the grocery is mainly cassia cinnamon and it should be taken with moderation since it contains a compound known as coumarin which can be toxic and in the process damage your liver.

Ceylon cinnamon famously known as true cinnamon is the other variety of cinnamon. This is considered safe but no has less likelihood of controlling your blood sugar levels.

  • In a cup serving of warm water add 1 ½ teaspoon of cinnamon then drink it on a daily basis.
  • You can also boil 2-4 cinnamon sticks in a cup of water then allow it to heat for 20 minutes. Drink this solution daily until your blood glucose levels improve.
  • Cinnamon can also be used as an ingredient in smoothies, warm beverages and in baking.
  1. Fenugreek

Fenugreek is a herb and from its hypoglycemic activity, this herb helps in controlling and preventing diabetes, lowering blood sugar levels and improving the glucose tolerance levels. Fenugreek being rich in fiber helps in slowing down the rate in which sugars and carbs are absorbed into the blood as well as increasing the secretion of insulin.

  • Add at least 2 tablespoons of fenugreek in powder form to your milk
  • Soak some fenugreek seeds overnight then drink the water in the morning when on an empty stomach. Don’t throw the seeds you should drink t5hem along with the water. Repeat this procedure every day for several months and you shall see a drastic improvement in your blood sugar levels.
  1. Indian Gooseberry (Amla)

Indian gooseberry or Amla should be the berries you seek if you need vitamin a C. Indian gooseberry also helps in improving how the pancreas functions.

  • Form a paste by grinding 2-3 Amlas into a fine Squeeze the paste to form juice then mix approximately 2 tablespoons of the juice in a cup of water then drink it daily in the morning when hungry.
  • You can also mix a tablespoon of Amla in a cup serving of bitter gourd then drink it each day until you notice improvements in your blood sugar levels.
  1. Black plum or Indian BlackBerry (Jambul)

Black Plum is a native Indian fruit and over the years has been used to control the blood sugar levels. Black plum contains hydrolyzable tannins, ellagic acid, and anthocyanins just to name a few.

With the Jambul plant, virtually just any part of it from the leaves, seeds or the berries can be used to treat diabetes. Studies have shown that the seeds and fruits have a hypoglycemic effect that helps in reducing the blood glucose levels.

In particular, the seeds have alkaloid, jambosine, and the glycoside jamboline all which work in regulating blood glucose levels.

During the fruits, season make black plum part of your day to day diet since this will boost the secretion of insulin. You can also opt to make powder from the seeds then mix it with water. Though the plant is natively grown in India you can also get it in Asian markets and in most herbal shops around the globe.

  1. Mango leaves

Most people don’t know that mango leaves help in regulating the levels of insulin on the body and as a result, treating diabetes. That’s not all; mango leaves also helps in lowering bad cholesterol levels in the body.

Soak overnight 10-15 green mango leaves. Filter the water in the morning and drink it the first thing when your stomach is still empty.

Dry tender and fresh mango leaves in a shade then grind them into powder. Every day take 1 ½ teaspoons of mango leaves at least twice every 24hrs.

  1. Curry leaves

Curry leaves are one among the few leaves that possess anti-diabetic properties. Research has it that curry leaves help in controlling diabetes by lowering the rate at which starch is digested and absorbed into the bloodstream.

Simply chew fresh and tender curry leaves in the morning when on an empty stomach. Repeat this for every day for at least three months for effective results and in the process, you will also lower the levels of bad cholesterol in the body as well as aid in weight loss.

  1. Aloe Vera

Aloe Vera is one of the most famous herbs in the world. This herb possesses phytosterols and anti-hyperglycemic properties that help in lowering fasting sugar levels in the body.

  • Mix 1 ½ teaspoon of turmeric and bay leaves and 1 teaspoon of aloe vera, take this solution at least twice a day either in the morning or before dinner and lunch.
  1. Guava

Guavas are rich in vitamin C and fiber and this plays an important role in regulating blood glucose levels. As a diabetic however it is advisable that you peel off the skin before consuming the guava always putting in your mind that eating too much of it is discouraged.

  1. Okra

Also known as ladies finger, Okra has the ability to lower blood glucose levels and in the process control diabetes as evidenced by a study published in 2011. This is simply due to the fact that okra has antihyperlipidemic and antidiabetic properties.

  • Soak the okra overnight then in the morning drink the water along with the okras. Repeat this procedure every day for several weeks.
  • Make okras part of your diet.

Points to note

  • You should keep tracking your blood sugar levels
  • Eat healthily and exercise regularly
  • Include fiber to your diet
  • Expose yourself to vitamin D since this helps in insulin secretion
  • Drink plenty of water
  • Try and relax and avoid stress