Although gymnema has recently attracted the attention of health professionals in the West, it has been used in India for 2,000 years to treat diabetes.

Our health is more dependent on minerals than on protein, carbohydrates or vitamins. Minerals are on every cell of the body and are vital for our overall mental and physical well being. The body cannot manufacture any minerals. They must be obtained via diet. Due to depletion of minerals in the soil and in order to get enough minerals from the typical diet, we would have to eat more than we could possibly want to. The majority of the population is deficient in the 84 minerals required by the body and mind. The inevitable result is reduced health and longevity.

According to herbalprovider.com, the sugar-lowering action of gymnema leaves is gradual, quite different from the rapid effect of prescription hypoglycemic drugs.

Gymnemic leaves contain acids that reduce intestinal absorption of glucose, stimulate the pancreas to increase insulin production, and decrease sugar craving by causing sugar to taste like grit or sandpaper.

As discussed above, one of the most popular ways in which gymnema sylvestre has been used is for the treatment of diabetes. One study that examined the effects of gymnema sylvestre on type I diabetics found a significant improvement in blood sugar levels and insulin requirements. These results were mirrored in another study which evaluated the effect of this herb on type II diabetics. It is important to note that in this study, the patients received an extract from the leaf of the gymnema sylvestre herb.

Another great dietary benefit associated with gymnema sylvestre is a decrease in sugar cravings. This can be especially beneficial for individuals who struggle against an affinity for sweets in their goal to lose weight. Research has found that when the leaves of the gymnema sylvestre plant are applied directly to the tongue or are chewed, there is a decrease in the ability of the subject to taste sweet foods. This may limit cravings and binges, thereby helping to achieve significant weight loss results.

Finally, gymnema sylvestre has also been found to be beneficial in the treatment of high triglyceride levels. Lowering your blood triglycerides can help in the treatment and prevention of cardiovascular disease, heart attacks, and strokes.

As discussed above, one of the primary used of gymnema sylvestre is for the treatment of high blood sugar levels. While these high sugar levels can be very dangerous, having a blood sugar that is too low can also result in serious health conditions, including lightheadedness, dizziness, fainting, nausea, and even coma. It is important to talk to your doctor or pharmacist before taking gymnema sylvestre to find out whether or not this herbal supplement is right for you. Always remember that is it better to be safe than sorry.