Bitter Melon shows great promise in recent studies for the treatment of diabetes and other serious diseases. There is growing evidence that Bitter Melon may be helpful in the treatment of type-2, adult-onset diabetes. In clinical and lab tests, the herb showed some ability to reduce rises in blood sugar after eating. Constituents, charantin and polypeptide-b, appeared to help reduce blood glucose and urine glucose levels in subjects with diabetes mellitus, and by improving utilization of carbohydrates, there was also a decrease in the frequency of urination, but it is important to remember that diabetics should always consult with a physician before embarking on a regime of Bitter Melon supplements. (Click here for more information on Bitter Melon)
Blueberry, in addition to being a favorite summertime fruit for its flavor, can also be considered very beneficial to your health. Blueberry helps to support healthy cholesterol levels and fight off fungal infections. It is an effective nutritional and medicinal supplement. Reports have indicated that the compound, pterostilbene, helps to regulate blood sugar and shows promise in helping fight Type-2 diabetes. In combating type-2 diabetes, Blueberry helps to regulate blood sugar levels. There is a substance in Blueberry called mytrillin that helps reduce blood sugar in the same manner as insulin would. Blueberries are very rich in antioxidants, battling cell and DNA damage caused by many diseases faced by man. (Click here for more information on Blueberry)
Cinnamon is an antiseptic, astringent and stimulant that will also relieve nausea, flatulence and diarrhea. But that's not all, the newest research on Cinnamon highlights its hypoglycemic properties. Extracts of Cinnamon have been reported to enhance insulin activity, increasing the breakdown of glucose, and improving blood sugar concentrations. Consuming roughly one half a teaspoon of Cinnamon daily may lead to dramatic reductions in blood sugar, cholesterol and triglycerides in Type-2 diabetic patients who are not taking insulin. (Click here for more information on Cinnamon)
Gymnema is said to help lower blood sugar levels in Type-2, adult onset diabetics by blocking sugar's efficacy in the system and reducing blood sugar levels after sugar consumption. Although it is not exactly clear as to how this herb works, substances in Gymnema's leaves, called gymnemic acids, are believed to increase the flow of insulin in the pancreas (boosting the amount available to process sugar), or possibly regenerate the cells in the pancreas that secrete insulin. Other research has claimed that Gymnema reduces glucose absorption from the intestine, improves uptake of glucose into cells and prevents adrenal hormones from stimulating the liver to produce glucose, thereby reducing blood-sugar levels. It is interesting to note that the active ingredient, gymnemic acid, is an organic acid, atomically composed similarly to glucose molecules. The molecules fill the receptor sites in the intestines when gymnemic acid fills the receptors on the outer layers of the intestines, blocking the absorption of sugar molecules. (Click here for more information on Gymnema)
Dandelion Root has two particularly important uses: to promote the formation of bile and to remove excess water from the body. The root affects all forms of secretion and excretion from the body. It acts as a tonic and stimulant by removing toxins and poisons from the body. It increases the flow of urine in patients with liver problems. It is useful for all kinds of kidney troubles, diabetes, dropsy, inflammation of the bowels and fever. (Click here for more information on Dandelion Root)
Fenugreek Seed has been shown in recent studies to have positive results in treating diabetes. The herb was shown to lower blood glucose levels for Type-2 diabetes sufferers, and some insulin-dependent diabetics in one study in India, who were on low doses of insulin, took Fenugreek, and it reduced blood sugar and other harmful fats. Furthermore, an amino acid in Fenugreek (hydroxyisoleucine) is said to stimulate the pancreas to secret insulin, another way the herb may help diabetics. (Click here for more information on Fenugreek Seed)
Agrimony has analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and diuretic properties. It remains a valuable herb today and is mainly used as a gastro-intestinal tonic. It increases the level of trombocytes, thus improving coagulation. Agrimony has been used as a digestion aid as well as for coughs, asthma, bronchitis, sore throat, diarrhea, incontinence, skin eruptions and cystitis. (Click here for more information on Agrimony)
Garlic helps regulate blood-sugar levels by tying up the chemical receptors that would otherwise deactivate insulin, the hormone that controls sugar usage and also stimulates the pancreas to secrete insulin. It does this without stimulating weight gain. (Click here for more information on Garlic)
Onion helps to reduce the blood-sugar levels. In a 1976 report from the British medical journal, Lancet, it was noted that Onion (and garlic) are very hypoglycemic in nature and will lower blood sugar levels in diabetics - so much so, that people who already have low blood sugar levels should avoid Onion. (Click here for more information on Onion)
Grapeseed is a very powerful antioxidant. Grapeseed helps to protect the entire body as one of the most effective free-radical fighters ever discovered. Of all the herbal supplements, Grapeseed also tops the list in supporting vascular health. (Click here for more information on Grapeseed)
Juniper Berry is an effective diuretic and antiseptic that not only promotes the flow of urine, but also treats infection of the urinary tract at the same time. As a diuretic, the herb stimulates the kidneys and bladder to get rid of retained and excess water (possibly also helping to treat obesity). Juniper increases the filtering of waste products by the kidneys and helps to expel prostate sediment and gallstones. It is also thought to dissolve kidney stones. The herb helps to prevent the crystallization of uric acid in the kidney, retaining it in solution and passing it in the urine; this is of great benefit to those suffering from gout (a condition marked by painful inflammation of the joints caused by deposits of uric acid). (Click here for more information on Juniper Berry)
Marshmallow Root improves the functioning of the immune system, since it is known to stimulate phagocytosis, the immune process in which cells called macrophages engulf and digest infectious micro-organisms. (Click here for more information on Marshmallow Root)
Slippery Elm is soothing! As its name implies, this lubricating and nutritious herb coats irritated areas, allowing the body to heal itself. Its high level of mucilage helps to soothe a sore throat, ease indigestion, and lubricate the bowel. (Click here for more information on Slippery Elm Bark)
Cayenne has been found to be of considerable benefit in relieving pain of a condition called Diabetic Neuropathy, a painful nerve disorder caused by long term diabetes. Cayenne helps to relieve pain due to its endorphin enhancing properties which helps to block the transmission of substance P, which transports pain messages to the brain. Cayenne is primarily a kind of catalyst in the blood purification process. It helps to regulate both cholesterol levels while reducing platelet aggregation. This results in lower blood pressure levels and improved circulation to vital organs while helping support overall digestive functions. A powerful antioxidant, cayenne is an overall tonic that is said to build up resistance to illness, sore throats, sinus infections, and colds. Cayenne is called a carrier or catalyst herb that increases the efficacy of almost every other herb or herbal combination. (Click here for more information on Cayenne)
Peppermint is a stimulant that acts more powerfully on the system than any liquor, quickly diffusing through the system and bringing back to the body its natural warmth and glow. Peppermint is a "nervine" that eases nervous agitation and anxiety. It has a calming effect on the entire body and can help soothe a nagging cough. Peppermint may help treat insomnia, and people with headache have found Peppermint effective when they accompany it with a short nap. Peppermint also promotes good digestion and improves the appetite. (Click here for more information on Peppermint Leaf)
