Gymnema is an Ayurvedic herb with a truly extraordinary effect on blood sugar disorders. Its Sanskrit name is Gurmar, which means “Sugar Destroyer”, or “Destroyer of the Sweet Taste”.
Gymnema has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for blood sugar for thousands of years. Its effects on the insulin cycle, pancreas, and liver make it a powerful ally in the treatment of diabetes and endocrine disorders.
Whether you are working with diabetes, dietary changes, or simply hoping to achieve balanced blood sugar levels throughout the day, Gymnema can help on the journey.
Gymnema is an Ayurvedic staple for blood sugar imbalance and appetite control. As “Sugar Destroyer,” Gymnema literally blocks the taste of sugar on the tongue. Gymnemic acids fill the sugar receptors in the taste buds and block out the sweet taste for 1-2 hours. After taking Gymnema, most people report that sweets taste like sand, or worse, and have no desire to eat them.
Not only does Gymnema stop us from tasting sugar, it also prevents the feeling of contentment or “sugar rush” that results from eating sweets. The sugar rush comes from intestinal absorption of glucose, which Gymnema blocks. Gymnema prevents the body from absorbing glucose and using it as fuel. Instead, it signals the body to metabolize stored fat cells as fuel, thus aiding in weight loss as well.
As if all this weren’t enough, Gymnema also heals the pancreas and encourages the regeneration of the pancreatic beta cells that release insulin into the body. Gymnema increases insulin production and communicates with the liver to keep glucose levels balanced in the body, preventing spikes and dips, and allowing glucose to pass through the system unabsorbed.
Gymnema also has a soothing effect on the nerves. Modern life is stressful enough, and working to balance blood sugar, diet, and weight can be difficult. Gymnema’s nervine properties calm the mind, fortify the spirit, and encourage emotional resilience for the journey.
Gymnema can be taken as a tea or a capsule. It is a key ingredient in our Weight Loss and Beating Diabetes tea blends. It is safe for children and adults, and about 500mg a day is a recommended dose. For anyone hoping to achieve better blood sugar balance, Gymnema is a great herb to know!
