Gymnema Sylvestre - Sugar Destroyer Herb

Gymnema Sylvestre is a woody vine native to India, Africa, and Australia. In Ayurvedic medicine, it is known as 'sugar destroyer' and is used to help maintain healthy blood sugar levels.
Category
Supplement
Where to get
Available in health stores and online
Prepared by Lee Cheng, reviewed by Jane Cox

Gymnema Sylvestre FAQ


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What is Gymnema sylvestre used for?

Traditionally, Gymnema sylvestre has been used as a tea or by chewing the leaves of the plant. It is also available in extract, powder, tablet, or capsule form. G. sylvestre tea is commonly used to control appetite, specifically for the treatment of obesity. Tablets and capsules are best able to ensure an accurate dose and avoid overdosing.

What does Gymnema sylvestre look like?

The plant is a climber with leaves having soft hairs on the upper surface. The leaves are elongated-oval in shape. It has a small, yellow, umbelliferous inflorescence that is produced throughout the year. Gymnema sylvestre has a long history of use in herbal medicine and a broad range of therapeutic properties.

Is Gymnema sylvestre a sugar destroyer?

Gymnema Sylvestre, often referred to as the “sugar destroyer” or “Gurmar” in Hindi, is a woody vine native to the tropical forests of India, Africa, and Australia. This herb has garnered attention for its unique properties related to blood sugar management and taste alteration. What is the scientific name of Gymnema Sylvestre?

Does Gymnema sylvestre have a name?

Yes, apart from “Gurmar” and Gymnema Sylvestre, this herb goes by various common names in different regions. Some of these include “Meshashringi” in Sanskrit, “Vishani” in Marathi, and “Periploca of the Woods” in English. What is Gymnema Sylvestre’s traditional and modern medicinal use?

What is Gymnema sylvestre (Asclepiadaceae)?

Gymnema sylvestre (Asclepiadaceae), popularly known as “gurmar” for its distinct property as sugar destroyer, is a reputed herb in the Ayurvedic system of medicine. The phytoconstituents responsible for sweet suppression activity includes triterpene saponins known as gymnemic acids, gymnemasaponins, and a polypeptide, gurmarin.

How does Gymnema sylvestre work?

Gymnemic acids in Gymnema sylvestre can block the sugar receptors on your tongue, decreasing your ability to taste sweetness. This can lead to reduced sugar cravings. 2. Helps Lower Blood Sugar Levels According to the World Health Organization, more than 420 million people worldwide have diabetes, and this number is expected to increase ( 3 ).

What are the health benefits of Gymnema sylvestre?

The Gymnema sylvestre plant offers numerous health benefits. For example, it may help you fight sugar cravings and lower high blood sugar levels. It may also help fight inflammation, aid weight loss, and lower “bad” LDL cholesterol and triglyceride levels.

What is Gymnema sylvestre leaf used for?

Gymnema sylvestre leaf has been used for centuries in Ayurvedic medicine to treat a variety of health conditions, including diabetes, obesity, and digestive problems. Modern research has shown that the herb may also have potential benefits for weight loss, cholesterol control, and anti-inflammatory effects.

Gymnema Sylvestre References

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