Health Benefits, Uses, Side Effects, Dosage & Interactions

Ananthan, R., Latha, M., Pari, L., Ramkumar, K. M., Baskar, C. G., and Bai, V. N. Effect of Gymnema montanum on blood glucose, plasma insulin, and carbohydrate metabolic enzymes in alloxan-induced diabetic rats. J Med Food 2003;6(1):43-49. View abstract.

Baskaran, K, Ahamath, BK, Shanmugasundaram, KR, and et all. Antidiabetic effect of a leaf extract from Gymnema sylvestre in non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus patients. J Ethnopharm 1990;30:295-305.

Bishayee, A and Chatterjee, M. Hypolipidaemic and antiatherosclerotic effects of oral gymnema sylvestre R. Br. leaf extract in albino rats fed a high fat diet. Phytother Res 1994;8:118-120.

Brala, P and Hagen, R. Effects of sweetness perception and caloric value of a preload on short term intake. Physiol Behav 1983;30:1-9.

Chattopadhyay RR. Possible mechanism of antihyperglycemic effect of Gymnema sylvestre leaf extract, Part I. Gen Pharm 1998;31(3):495-496.

Gholap, S. and Kar, A. Effects of Inula racemosa root and Gymnema sylvestre leaf extracts in the regulation of corticosteroid induced diabetes mellitus: involvement of thyroid hormones. Pharmazie 2003;58(6):413-415. View abstract.

Gupta SS and Variyar MC. Experimental studies on pituitary diabetes IV. Effect of Gymnema sylvestre and Coccinia indica against the hyperglycemia response of somatotrophin and corticotrophin hormones. Indian J Med Res 1964;52:200-207.

Imoto, T, Miyasaka, A, Ishima, R, and et all. A novel peptide isolated from the leaves of Gymnema sylvestre – I. Characterization and its suppressive effect on the neural responses to sweet taste stimuli in the rat. Comp Biochem Physiol A 1991;100(2):309-314.

Jiang, H. [Advances in the study on hypoglycemic constituents of Gymnema sylvestre (Retz.) Schult]. Zhong.Yao Cai. 2003;26(4):305-307. View abstract.

Kamei, K, Takano, R, Miyasaka, A, and et al. Amino acid sequence of sweet-taste-suppressing peptide (gurmarin) from the leaves of Gymnema sylvestre. J Biochem 1992;111:109-112.

Khare AK, Tondon RN, and Tewari JP. Hypoglycaemic activity of an indigenous drug (Gymnema sylvestre, “Gurmar”) in normal and diabetic persons. Indian J Physiol Pharm 1983;27:257-258.

Koch RB, Desaiah D, and Cutkomp LK. Inhibition of ATPases by gymnemic acid. Chem Biol Interact 1973;7:121-125.

Kothe A and Uppal R. Antidiabetic effects of Gymnema sylvestre in NIDDM – a short study. Indian J Homeopath Med 1997;32(1-2):61-62, 66.

Lawless, H. T. Evidence for neural inhibition in bittersweet taste mixtures. J Comp Physiol Psychol 1979;93(3):538-547. View abstract.

Murakami, N, Murakami, T, Kadoya, M, and et all. New hypoglycemic constituents in “gymnemic acid” from Gymnema sylvestre. Chem Pharm Bull 1996;44(2):469-471.

Okabayashi, Y., Tani, S., Fujisawa, T., Koide, M., Hasegawa, H., Nakamura, T., Fujii, M., and Otsuki, M. Effect of Gymnema sylvestre, R.Br. on glucose homeostasis in rats. Diabetes Res Clin Pract 1990;9(2):143-148. View abstract.

Porchezhian, E. and Dobriyal, R. M. An overview on the advances of Gymnema sylvestre: chemistry, pharmacology and patents. Pharmazie 2003;58(1):5-12. View abstract.

Preuss HG, Jarrell ST, Scheckenbach R, and et al. Comparative effects of chromium, vanadium and gymnema sylvestre on sugar-induced blood pressure elevations in SHR. J Amer Coll Nutrit 1998;17(2):116-123.

Preuss, H. G., Garis, R. I., Bramble, J. D., Bagchi, D., Bagchi, M., Rao, C. V., and Satyanarayana, S. Efficacy of a novel calcium/potassium salt of (-)-hydroxycitric acid in weight control. Int.J Clin.Pharmacol.Res. 2005;25(3):133-144. View abstract.

Rathi AN, Visvanathan A, and Shanmugasundaram KR. Studies on protein-bound polysaccharide components & glycosaminoglycans in experimental diabetes – effect of Gymnema sylvestre, R.Br. Indian J Exper Biol 1981;19:715-721.

Shanmugasundaram ERB, Gopinath KL, Shanmugasundaram KR, and et al. Possible regeneration of the islets of Langerhans in streptozotocin-diabetic rats given Gymnema sylvestre leaf extracts. J Ethnopharm 1990;30:265-279.

Shanmugasundaram ERB, Rajeswari G, Baskaran K, and et al. Use of Gymnema sylvestre leaf extract in the control of blood glucose in insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus. J Ethnopharm 1990;30(3):281-294.

Shanmugasundaram KR, Panneerselvam C, Samudram P, and et al. Enzyme changes and glucose utilisation in diabetic rabbits: the effect of Gymnema sylvestre, R.Br. J Ethnopharm 1983;7:205-234.

Sinsheimer JE, Rao GS, and McIlhenny HM. Constituents from Gymnema sylvestre leaves V. Isolation and preliminary characterization of the gymnemic acids. J Pharm Sci 1970;59(5):622-628.

Srivastava Y, Bhatt HV, Prem AS, and et al. Hypoglycemic and life-prolonging properties of Gymnema sylvestre leaf extract in diabetic rats. Israel J Med Sci 1985;21:540-542.

Terasawa H, Miyoshi M, and Imoto T. Effects of long-term administration of Gymnema sylvestre watery-extract on variations of body weight, plasma glucose, serum triglyceride, total cholesterol and insulin in Wistar fatty rats. Yonago Acta Med 1994;37:117-127.

Tominaga M, Kimura M, Sugiyama K, and et al. Effects of seishin-renshi-in and Gymnema sylvestre on insulin resistance in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. Diabet Res Clin Pract 1995;29:11-17.

Wang LF, Luo H, Miyoshi M, and et al. Inhibitory effect of gymnemic acid on intestinal absorption of oleic acid in rats. Can J Physiol Pharmacol 1998;76:1017-1023.

Xie, J. T., Wang, A., Mehendale, S., Wu, J., Aung, H. H., Dey, L., Qiu, S., and Yuan, C. S. Anti-diabetic effects of Gymnema yunnanense extract. Pharmacol Res 2003;47(4):323-329. View abstract.

Ye, W., Liu, X., Zhang, Q., Che, C. T., and Zhao, S. Antisweet saponins from Gymnema sylvestre. J Nat.Prod. 2001;64(2):232-235. View abstract.

Yoshikawa, M. , Murakami, T., Kadoya, M., Li, Y., Murakami, N., Yamahara, J., and Matsuda, H. Medicinal foodstuffs. IX. The inhibitors of glucose absorption from the leaves of Gymnema sylvestre R. BR. (Asclepiadaceae): structures of gymnemosides a and b. Chem.Pharm Bull.(Tokyo) 1997;45(10):1671-1676. View abstract.

Ananthan R, Baskar C, NarmathaBai V, et al. Antidiabetic effect of Gymnema montanum leaves: effect on lipid peroxidation induced oxidative stress in experimental diabetes. Pharmacol Res 2003;48:551-6. View abstract.

Baskaran K, Kizar Ahamath B, Radha Shanmugasundaram K, Shanmugasundaram ER. Antidiabetic effect of leaf extract from Gymnema sylvestre in non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus patients. J Ethnopharmacol 1990;30:295-300. View abstract.

Head KA. Type 1 diabetes: prevention of the disease and its complications. Townsend Letter for Doctors & Patients 1998;180:72-84.

Katsukawa H, Imoto T, Ninomiya Y. Induction of salivary gurmarin-binding proteins in rats fed gymnema-containing diets. Chem Senses 1999;24:387-92. View abstract.

Luo H, Kashiwagi A, Shibahara T, Yamada K. Decreased bodyweight without rebound and regulated lipoprotein metabolism by gymnemate in genetic multifactor syndrome animal. Mol Cell Biochem 2007;299:93-8. View abstract.

Persaud SJ, Al-Majed H, Raman A, Jones PM. Gymnema sylvestre stimulates insulin release in vitro by increased membrane permeability. J Endocrinol 1999;163:207-12. View abstract.

Preuss HG, Bagchi D, Bagchi M, et al. Effects of a natural extract of (-)-hydroxycitric acid (HCA-SX) and a combination of HCA-SX plus niacin-bound chromium and Gymnema sylvestre extract on weight loss. Diabetes Obes Metab 2004;6:171-180. View abstract.

Satdive RK, Abhilash P, Fulzele DP. Antimicrobial activity of Gymnema sylvestre leaf extract. Fitoterapia 2003;74:699-701. View abstract.

Shanmugasundaram ER, Rajeswari G, Baskaran K, et al. Use of Gymnema sylvestre leaf extract in the control of blood glucose in insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus. J Ethnopharmacol 1990;30:281-94. View abstract.

Sinsheimer JE, Subba-Rao G, McIlhenny HM. Constitents from G sylvestre leaves: isolation and preliminary characterization of the gymnemic acids. J Pharmacol Sci 1970;59:622-8.

Yeh GY, Eisenberg DM, Kaptchuk TJ, Phillips RS. Systematic review of herbs and dietary supplements for glycemic control in diabetes. Diabetes Care 2003;26:1277-94. View abstract.

Overview, Uses, Side Effects, Precautions, Interactions, Dosing and Reviews

Ananthan, R., Latha, M., Pari, L., Ramkumar, K. M., Baskar, C. G., and Bai, V. N. Effect of Gymnema montanum on blood glucose, plasma insulin, and carbohydrate metabolic enzymes in alloxan-induced diabetic rats. J Med Food 2003;6(1):43-49. View abstract.

Baskaran, K, Ahamath, BK, Shanmugasundaram, KR, and et all. Antidiabetic effect of a leaf extract from Gymnema sylvestre in non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus patients. J Ethnopharm 1990;30:295-305.

Bishayee, A and Chatterjee, M. Hypolipidaemic and antiatherosclerotic effects of oral gymnema sylvestre R. Br. leaf extract in albino rats fed a high fat diet. Phytother Res 1994;8:118-120.

Chattopadhyay RR. Possible mechanism of antihyperglycemic effect of Gymnema sylvestre leaf extract, Part I. Gen Pharm 1998;31(3):495-496.

Gholap, S. and Kar, A. Effects of Inula racemosa root and Gymnema sylvestre leaf extracts in the regulation of corticosteroid induced diabetes mellitus: involvement of thyroid hormones. Pharmazie 2003;58(6):413-415. View abstract.

Gupta SS and Variyar MC. Experimental studies on pituitary diabetes IV. Effect of Gymnema sylvestre and Coccinia indica against the hyperglycemia response of somatotrophin and corticotrophin hormones. Indian J Med Res 1964;52:200-207.

Jiang, H. [Advances in the study on hypoglycemic constituents of Gymnema sylvestre (Retz.) Schult]. Zhong.Yao Cai. 2003;26(4):305-307. View abstract.

Khare AK, Tondon RN, and Tewari JP. Hypoglycaemic activity of an indigenous drug (Gymnema sylvestre, “Gurmar”) in normal and diabetic persons. Indian J Physiol Pharm 1983;27:257-258.

Kothe A and Uppal R. Antidiabetic effects of Gymnema sylvestre in NIDDM – a short study. Indian J Homeopath Med 1997;32(1-2):61-62, 66.

Murakami, N, Murakami, T, Kadoya, M, and et all. New hypoglycemic constituents in “gymnemic acid” from Gymnema sylvestre. Chem Pharm Bull 1996;44(2):469-471.

Okabayashi, Y., Tani, S., Fujisawa, T., Koide, M., Hasegawa, H., Nakamura, T., Fujii, M., and Otsuki, M. Effect of Gymnema sylvestre, R.Br. on glucose homeostasis in rats. Diabetes Res Clin Pract 1990;9(2):143-148. View abstract.

Porchezhian, E. and Dobriyal, R. M. An overview on the advances of Gymnema sylvestre: chemistry, pharmacology and patents. Pharmazie 2003;58(1):5-12. View abstract.

Preuss, H. G., Garis, R. I., Bramble, J. D., Bagchi, D., Bagchi, M., Rao, C. V., and Satyanarayana, S. Efficacy of a novel calcium/potassium salt of (-)-hydroxycitric acid in weight control. Int.J Clin.Pharmacol.Res. 2005;25(3):133-144. View abstract.

Shanmugasundaram ERB, Gopinath KL, Shanmugasundaram KR, and et al. Possible regeneration of the islets of Langerhans in streptozotocin-diabetic rats given Gymnema sylvestre leaf extracts. J Ethnopharm 1990;30:265-279.

Shanmugasundaram ERB, Rajeswari G, Baskaran K, and et al. Use of Gymnema sylvestre leaf extract in the control of blood glucose in insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus. J Ethnopharm 1990;30(3):281-294.

Shanmugasundaram KR, Panneerselvam C, Samudram P, and et al. Enzyme changes and glucose utilisation in diabetic rabbits: the effect of Gymnema sylvestre, R.Br. J Ethnopharm 1983;7:205-234.

Sinsheimer JE, Rao GS, and McIlhenny HM. Constituents from Gymnema sylvestre leaves V. Isolation and preliminary characterization of the gymnemic acids. J Pharm Sci 1970;59(5):622-628.

Srivastava Y, Bhatt HV, Prem AS, and et al. Hypoglycemic and life-prolonging properties of Gymnema sylvestre leaf extract in diabetic rats. Israel J Med Sci 1985;21:540-542.

Terasawa H, Miyoshi M, and Imoto T. Effects of long-term administration of Gymnema sylvestre watery-extract on variations of body weight, plasma glucose, serum triglyceride, total cholesterol and insulin in Wistar fatty rats. Yonago Acta Med 1994;37:117-127.

Tominaga M, Kimura M, Sugiyama K, and et al. Effects of seishin-renshi-in and Gymnema sylvestre on insulin resistance in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. Diabet Res Clin Pract 1995;29:11-17.

Wang LF, Luo H, Miyoshi M, and et al. Inhibitory effect of gymnemic acid on intestinal absorption of oleic acid in rats. Can J Physiol Pharmacol 1998;76:1017-1023.

Xie, J. T., Wang, A., Mehendale, S., Wu, J., Aung, H. H., Dey, L., Qiu, S., and Yuan, C. S. Anti-diabetic effects of Gymnema yunnanense extract. Pharmacol Res 2003;47(4):323-329. View abstract.

Yoshikawa, M., Murakami, T., Kadoya, M., Li, Y., Murakami, N., Yamahara, J., and Matsuda, H. Medicinal foodstuffs. IX. The inhibitors of glucose absorption from the leaves of Gymnema sylvestre R. BR. (Asclepiadaceae): structures of gymnemosides a and b. Chem.Pharm Bull.(Tokyo) 1997;45(10):1671-1676. View abstract.

Ananthan R, Baskar C, NarmathaBai V, et al. Antidiabetic effect of Gymnema montanum leaves: effect on lipid peroxidation induced oxidative stress in experimental diabetes. Pharmacol Res 2003;48:551-6. View abstract.

Arunachalam KD, Arun LB, Annamalai SK, Arunachalam AM. Potential anticancer properties of bioactive compounds of Gymnema sylvestre and its biofunctionalized silver nanoparticles. Int J Nanomedicine. 2014;10:31-41. View abstract.

Baskaran K, Kizar Ahamath B, Radha Shanmugasundaram K, Shanmugasundaram ER. Antidiabetic effect of leaf extract from Gymnema sylvestre in non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus patients. J Ethnopharmacol 1990;30:295-300. View abstract.

Fabio GD, Romanucci V, De Marco A, Zarrelli A. Triterpenoids from Gymnema sylvestre and their pharmacological activities. Molecules. 2014;19(8):10956-81. View abstract.

Head KA. Type 1 diabetes: prevention of the disease and its complications. Townsend Letter for Doctors & Patients 1998;180:72-84.

Kamble B, Gupta A, Moothedath I, Khatal L, Janrao S, Jadhav A, et al. Effects of Gymnema sylvestre extract on the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of glimepiride in streptozotocin induced diabetic rats. Chem Biol Interact. 2016;245:30-8. View abstract.

Katsukawa H, Imoto T, Ninomiya Y. Induction of salivary gurmarin-binding proteins in rats fed gymnema-containing diets. Chem Senses 1999;24:387-92. View abstract.

Luo H, Kashiwagi A, Shibahara T, Yamada K. Decreased bodyweight without rebound and regulated lipoprotein metabolism by gymnemate in genetic multifactor syndrome animal. Mol Cell Biochem 2007;299:93-8. View abstract.

Nakamura Y, Tsumura Y, Tonogai Y, Shibata T. Fecal steroid excretion is increased in rats by oral administration of gymnemic acids contained in Gymnema sylvestre leaves. J Nutr 1999;129(6):1214-22. View abstract.

Persaud SJ, Al-Majed H, Raman A, Jones PM. Gymnema sylvestre stimulates insulin release in vitro by increased membrane permeability. J Endocrinol 1999;163:207-12. View abstract.

Preuss HG, Bagchi D, Bagchi M, et al. Effects of a natural extract of (-)-hydroxycitric acid (HCA-SX) and a combination of HCA-SX plus niacin-bound chromium and Gymnema sylvestre extract on weight loss. Diabetes Obes Metab 2004;6:171-180. View abstract.

Rammohan B, Samit K, Chinmoy D, et al. Human cytochrome P450 enzyme modulation by gymnema sylvestre: a predictive safety evaluation by LC-MS/MS. Pharmacogn Mag. 2016 Jul;12(Suppl 4):S389-S394. View abstract.

Satdive RK, Abhilash P, Fulzele DP. Antimicrobial activity of Gymnema sylvestre leaf extract. Fitoterapia 2003;74:699-701. View abstract.

Shanmugasundaram ER, Rajeswari G, Baskaran K, et al. Use of Gymnema sylvestre leaf extract in the control of blood glucose in insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus. J Ethnopharmacol 1990;30:281-94. View abstract.

Shiyovich A, Sztarkier I, Nesher L. Toxic hepatitis induced by Gymnema sylvestre, a natural remedy for type 2 diabetes mellitus. Am J Med Sci. 2010;340(6):514-7. View abstract.

Singh VK, Dwivedi P, Chaudhary BR, Singh R. Immunomodulatory effect of Gymnema sylvestre (R.Br.) leaf extract: an in vitro study in rat model. PLoS One. 2015;10(10): :e0139631. View abstract.

Sinsheimer JE, Subba-Rao G, McIlhenny HM. Constitents from G sylvestre leaves: isolation and preliminary characterization of the gymnemic acids. J Pharmacol Sci 1970;59:622-8.

Tiwari P, Mishra BN, Sangwan NS. Phytochemical and pharmacological properties of Gymnema sylvestre: an important medicinal plant. Biomed Res Int. 2014; 2014:830285. View abstract.

Vaghela M, Iyer K, Pandita N. In vitro inhibitory effect of gymnema sylvestre extracts and total gymnemic acids fraction on select cytochrome P450 activities in rat liver microsomes. Eur J Drug Metab Pharmacokinet. 2017 Oct 10. View abstract.

Vaghela M, Sahu N, Kharkar P, Pandita N. In vivo pharmacokinetic interaction by ethanolic extract of gymnema sylvestre with CYP2C9 (tolbutamide), CYP3A4 (amlodipine) and CYP1A2 (phenacetin) in rats. Chem Biol Interact. 2017 Dec 25;278:141-151. View abstract.

Yeh GY, Eisenberg DM, Kaptchuk TJ, Phillips RS. Systematic review of herbs and dietary supplements for glycemic control in diabetes. Diabetes Care 2003;26:1277-94. View abstract.

Zuniga LY, Gonzalez-Ortiz M, Martinez-Abundis E. Effect of gymnema sylvestre administration on metabolic syndrome, insulin sensitivity, and insulin secretion. J Med Food. 2017 Aug;20(8):750-54. View abstract.

Benefits, Side Effects, Dosage, and Interactions

Gymnema (Gymnema sylvestre) is a plant in the Apocynaceae family, well known in Ayurvedic medicine for its medicinal purposes. The plant is a perennial woody vine that is found in tropical regions of India, Africa, and Australia.

Gymnema is a climbing plant with elongated, oval leaves that have soft hairs on the top surface. The plant has small, yellow flowers that are produced throughout the year.

The Hindi term for G. sylvestre is gurmar, which is translated as sugar destroyer. This is because Gymnema sylvestre leaves contain gymnemic acids, which are major bioactive ingredients that act to suppress the taste of sugar by interacting with taste receptors on the tongue.

This suppression of sugar taste is temporary, and it has been found to be useful in treating diabetes, particularly in Ayurvedic practice.

Another reason that G. sylvestre is considered a sugar destroyer is because it is thought to inhibit sugar absorption in the body, thus, the plant has appeared in many research studies, evaluating its effectiveness for the treatment of weight loss and diabetes in Western medicine as well as in India.

Other names for gymnema include Australian cowplant and periploca of the woods.

Verywell / Hugo Lin

Health Benefits

Gymnema sylvestre is said to lower sugar cravings while reducing the rate at which sugar is absorbed into the body, potentially providing a two-fold action to combat weight gain and diabetes.

Diabetes is a common disorder caused by the body’s inability to utilize (or produce) insulin properly. Lack of insulin—or lack of insulin’s efficiency—results in high blood sugar; this is because insulin is a hormone that is responsible for moving the glucose (blood sugar) from the blood, into the cell, to be used for energy.

Many people take insulin or other blood sugar medication that helps the body more efficiently regulate glucose levels, but a natural plant supplement, like G. sylvestre may help. What does the research say?

There have been some significant research studies on the health benefits of Gymnema sylvestre for:

• Improving blood sugar levels
• Maintaining healthy weight: A 2004 study involving 60 moderately-obese study participants who were given gymnema, reports a 5% to 6% decrease in body weight along with a lower food intake. 
• Increasing the effectiveness of insulin

Studies

A 2017 study suggested that taking 200 to 400 milligrams (mg) of gymnemic acid (the active ingredient in G. sylvestre) reduced absorption of glucose (sugar) in the intestines.

In a 2010 study, participants with type 2 diabetes were given 500 mg of Gymnema sylvestre a day for 3 months. The study findings included:

• Reduced symptoms of diabetes (including fatigue and thirst)
• Reduced blood glucose (sugar) levels (including fasting blood sugar as well as post-prandial—after meals).
• Reduced glycated hemoglobin (a form of hemoglobin that is bound to glucose)
• Improvement in lipid (fat) levels

“These findings suggest a beneficial effect of GS [Gymnema sylvestre] in the management of diabetes mellitus,” said the study authors.

A 2004 study involving moderately-obese people showed that gymnema extract decreased bad cholesterol (LDL) by over 20% and increased good cholesterol (HDL) by 22%.

A 2017 study discovered that those who were given a lozenge containing gymnemic acids, ate 44% less sweets than those who took a placebo.  Study author, Eric Stice, PhD explained, “We found that participants who took a placebo versus a Sweet Defeat lozenge were 430% more likely to eat candy immediately afterward.”

Health Promoting Properties

Common health-promoting properties of G. sylvestre are said to include:

• Promoting digestive health
• Reducing fats and triglycerides
• Reducing inflammation
• Increasing fluid (urine) output (diuretic)
• Decreasing sugar cravings

These properties have not been definitively backed up by medical research, although some preliminary studies seem promising. More research is needed before G. sylvestre can be used as a safe and effective treatment for high cholesterol, digestive health, to treat inflammation, fluid retention, or more.

More clinical research studies are needed to prove Gymnema sylvestre’s effectiveness for the treatment of:

• Obesity (weight loss)
• Indigestion (and other digestive disorders)
• Constipation (as a stool softener)
• Cough
• Infections
• Arthritis
• Anemia
• Osteoporosis
• Snake bites
• Malaria
• Metabolic syndrome
• Hypercholesterolemia (high cholesterol)
• Asthma
• Diabetes

Caution

People with diabetes should never stop taking their insulin or oral hypoglycemic (blood sugar) medicine without the approval of the prescribing physician or other healthcare provider.

Anyone, including those with diabetes, should consult with their healthcare provider before taking Gymnema sylvestre for any condition, including weight loss and appetite suppression.

How It Works

Gymnema sylvestre is thought to increase the amount of insulin in the body, possibly by improving cell growth in the pancreas (this is where insulin is produced). Gymnema sylvestre is also thought to lower the amount of sugar that gets absorbed from the intestines (where digestion of food and absorption of nutrients occurs).

The tannins and saponins in Gymnema sylvestre are phytochemicals (active compounds in plants) that are said to have anti-inflammatory abilities, to help fight inflammation in the body.

The active compound in the gymnema plant is a group of acids called gymnemic acid. Studies have shown a possible link between gymnemic acids, obesity, and diabetes.

Possible Side Effects

Common Side Effects

Some side effects can occur as a direct result of gymnema’s blood sugar lowering effects, these include:

• Headache
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Shakiness
• Nausea

Contraindications

Although Gymnema sylvestre is generally considered safe for most people, there are some situations (referred to as contraindications) in which the herbal supplement should not be taken, these include:

• During pregnancy
• In children and infants
• For people with diabetes (unless approved by a professional healthcare provider)
• While breastfeeding
• While taking other blood sugar lowering medications (unless under the supervision of the healthcare provider)
• Before having surgery (Gymnema sylvestre can lower blood sugar levels, which could interfere with blood sugar control during surgery; discontinue the use of Gymnema sylvestre at least two weeks before having a planned surgical procedure)

Special Precautions and Warnings

There is not enough clinical research evidence to support the safe use of Gymnema sylvestre during pregnancy, while breastfeeding, or for children or infants.  Another safety precaution is linked to milkweed allergies. Those who are allergic to milkweed may have a reaction to gymnema as well.

Drug Interactions

Gymnema sylvestre should not be taken with specific drugs or other supplements, these include insulin and antidiabetes drugs

Insulin

Insulin may potentiate the blood sugar lowering effect of Gymnema sylvestre (those taking insulin should contact their healthcare provider before taking gymnema, the insulin dose may need to be changed).

Antidiabetes Drugs

Although Gymnema sylvestre may improve insulin levels and promote healthy blood sugar levels, taking the herbal supplement with anti-diabetes medications may result in a hypoglycemia (low blood sugar).

Medications where this may be seen include Amaryl (glimepiride), insulin, Diabinese (chlorpropamide), Glucotrol (glipizide), Orinase (tolbutamide), DiaBeta, Glynase PresTab, Micronase (glyburide), and others,

Always monitor the blood sugar very closely. People taking antidiabetic medications should only take Gymnema sylvestre under the direction and supervision of a medical professional/ healthcare provider.

Dosage and Preparation

As with other herbal supplements, the proper dose of Gymnema sylvestre depends on many different factors. These include age, overall health level, condition being treated, and more.

Although many studies have been conducted, the precise, safe and effective dose of Gymnema sylvestre has not yet been well established. Always follow the direction of the prescribing healthcare provider and the package insert on all herbal supplements, including Gymnema sylvestre.

Preparation

Traditionally, Gymnema sylvestre has been used by making a tea or chewing on the leaves of the plant. It is also available as an extract or leaf powder form. A tea is commonly made for use in controlling the appetite and specifically for treatment of obesity.

Supplemental tablets and capsules have been made (particularly for use in Western medicine). This ensures more accurate control of the dose, which is very important, particularly in clinical research studies.

Dosage

Gymnema sylvestre is considered possibly safe when taken in the recommended dosages, such as 200 to 400 milligrams (mg) per day. However, high dosages may be toxic and there is one report of toxic hepatitis in a patient with diabetes mellitus.

Dosages that have been commonly used include:

• For a tea: Boil the leaves of the Gymnema sylvestre plant for 5 minutes, then steep them in the boiling water for 15 minutes before ingesting the tea.
• Powder: Begin taking 2 grams and gradually increase to 4 grams of powder as tolerated.
• Capsules: Take 100 mg three to four times each day.
• For sugar blocking effects: Take Gymnema sylvestre supplement up 5 to 10 minutes before eating high sugar foods.

What to Look For

Although Gymnema sylvestre is considered safe when taken in the proper doses, it’s important to keep in mind that herbal supplements are not regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This means that a person must be particularly cautious when selecting an herbal product to ensure it is pure, and that the dose is safe. 

Some nutrition specialists recommend using the extract form of Gymnema sylvestre and not the raw powder form, because they say that the raw powder may not provide any glucose lowering effects. 

Look for an extract that is standardized to contain at least 25% gymnemic acid.

Other Questions

How long does it take for Gymnema sylvestre to stop sugar cravings?

One of the most impressive benefits of G. sylvestre is that it begins to work very quickly. In fact, studies have discovered that it takes just 30 seconds from the time the herbal supplement is initially taken to begin to take effect. 

How long does the sugar blocking effect of Gymnema sylvestre last? 

The sugar blocking effect of Gymnea is not permanent, it is estimated to last up to one hour from the time the herbal supplement is taken.

Does Gymnema sylvestre tea taste good?

Gymnema is said to have a slightly bitter flavor (similar to moringa tea). This is common with many medicinal herbal teas.

However, it has also been described as having an intense, earthy flavor and some tea drinkers say it tastes good, so it’s up to a person’s individual taste. Adding honey or other natural sweeteners will help to improve the taste for those who find it bitter tasting.

A Word From Verywell

Although early research shows a lot of promise, regarding the effectiveness of Gymnema sylvestre in lowering blood sugar and promoting weight loss, more research studies are needed to definitively prove its safety and effectiveness, particularly for treating diabetes.

These may include double-blind placebo studies, with numerous participants, over a long period of time (sometimes called longitudinal studies). The medical research must show that the drug is safe and effective on a consistent basis, not, simply for a small sampling of people, in a short time span. 

Insufficient medical research evidence does not mean that Gymnema sylvestre is unsafe or that it doesn’t work to help promote healthy blood sugar levels and reduce sugar cravings. But caution should be exercised, and a professional healthcare provider should be consulted before taking Gymnema sylvestre or any other herbal medicine.

Benefits, Uses, Side Effects, Dosage & Interactions

Ananthan, R., Latha, M., Pari, L., Ramkumar, K. M., Baskar, C. G., and Bai, V. N. Effect of Gymnema montanum on blood glucose, plasma insulin, and carbohydrate metabolic enzymes in alloxan-induced diabetic rats. J Med Food 2003;6(1):43-49. View abstract.

Baskaran, K, Ahamath, BK, Shanmugasundaram, KR, and et all. Antidiabetic effect of a leaf extract from Gymnema sylvestre in non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus patients. J Ethnopharm 1990;30:295-305.

Bishayee, A and Chatterjee, M. Hypolipidaemic and antiatherosclerotic effects of oral gymnema sylvestre R. Br. leaf extract in albino rats fed a high fat diet. Phytother Res 1994;8:118-120.

Brala, P and Hagen, R. Effects of sweetness perception and caloric value of a preload on short term intake. Physiol Behav 1983;30:1-9.

Chattopadhyay RR. Possible mechanism of antihyperglycemic effect of Gymnema sylvestre leaf extract, Part I. Gen Pharm 1998;31(3):495-496.

Gholap, S. and Kar, A. Effects of Inula racemosa root and Gymnema sylvestre leaf extracts in the regulation of corticosteroid induced diabetes mellitus: involvement of thyroid hormones. Pharmazie 2003;58(6):413-415. View abstract.

Gupta SS and Variyar MC. Experimental studies on pituitary diabetes IV. Effect of Gymnema sylvestre and Coccinia indica against the hyperglycemia response of somatotrophin and corticotrophin hormones. Indian J Med Res 1964;52:200-207.

Imoto, T, Miyasaka, A, Ishima, R, and et all. A novel peptide isolated from the leaves of Gymnema sylvestre – I. Characterization and its suppressive effect on the neural responses to sweet taste stimuli in the rat. Comp Biochem Physiol A 1991;100(2):309-314.

Jiang, H. [Advances in the study on hypoglycemic constituents of Gymnema sylvestre (Retz.) Schult]. Zhong.Yao Cai. 2003;26(4):305-307. View abstract.

Kamei, K, Takano, R, Miyasaka, A, and et al. Amino acid sequence of sweet-taste-suppressing peptide (gurmarin) from the leaves of Gymnema sylvestre. J Biochem 1992;111:109-112.

Khare AK, Tondon RN, and Tewari JP. Hypoglycaemic activity of an indigenous drug (Gymnema sylvestre, “Gurmar”) in normal and diabetic persons. Indian J Physiol Pharm 1983;27:257-258.

Koch RB, Desaiah D, and Cutkomp LK. Inhibition of ATPases by gymnemic acid. Chem Biol Interact 1973;7:121-125.

Kothe A and Uppal R. Antidiabetic effects of Gymnema sylvestre in NIDDM – a short study. Indian J Homeopath Med 1997;32(1-2):61-62, 66.

Lawless, H. T. Evidence for neural inhibition in bittersweet taste mixtures. J Comp Physiol Psychol 1979;93(3):538-547. View abstract.

Murakami, N, Murakami, T, Kadoya, M, and et all. New hypoglycemic constituents in “gymnemic acid” from Gymnema sylvestre. Chem Pharm Bull 1996;44(2):469-471.

Okabayashi, Y., Tani, S., Fujisawa, T., Koide, M., Hasegawa, H., Nakamura, T., Fujii, M., and Otsuki, M. Effect of Gymnema sylvestre, R.Br. on glucose homeostasis in rats. Diabetes Res Clin Pract 1990;9(2):143-148. View abstract.

Porchezhian, E. and Dobriyal, R. M. An overview on the advances of Gymnema sylvestre: chemistry, pharmacology and patents. Pharmazie 2003;58(1):5-12. View abstract.

Preuss HG, Jarrell ST, Scheckenbach R, and et al. Comparative effects of chromium, vanadium and gymnema sylvestre on sugar-induced blood pressure elevations in SHR. J Amer Coll Nutrit 1998;17(2):116-123.

Preuss, H. G., Garis, R. I., Bramble, J. D., Bagchi, D., Bagchi, M., Rao, C. V., and Satyanarayana, S. Efficacy of a novel calcium/potassium salt of (-)-hydroxycitric acid in weight control. Int.J Clin.Pharmacol.Res. 2005;25(3):133-144. View abstract.

Rathi AN, Visvanathan A, and Shanmugasundaram KR. Studies on protein-bound polysaccharide components & glycosaminoglycans in experimental diabetes – effect of Gymnema sylvestre, R.Br. Indian J Exper Biol 1981;19:715-721.

Shanmugasundaram ERB, Gopinath KL, Shanmugasundaram KR, and et al. Possible regeneration of the islets of Langerhans in streptozotocin-diabetic rats given Gymnema sylvestre leaf extracts. J Ethnopharm 1990;30:265-279.

Shanmugasundaram ERB, Rajeswari G, Baskaran K, and et al. Use of Gymnema sylvestre leaf extract in the control of blood glucose in insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus. J Ethnopharm 1990;30(3):281-294.

Shanmugasundaram KR, Panneerselvam C, Samudram P, and et al. Enzyme changes and glucose utilisation in diabetic rabbits: the effect of Gymnema sylvestre, R.Br. J Ethnopharm 1983;7:205-234.

Sinsheimer JE, Rao GS, and McIlhenny HM. Constituents from Gymnema sylvestre leaves V. Isolation and preliminary characterization of the gymnemic acids. J Pharm Sci 1970;59(5):622-628.

Srivastava Y, Bhatt HV, Prem AS, and et al. Hypoglycemic and life-prolonging properties of Gymnema sylvestre leaf extract in diabetic rats. Israel J Med Sci 1985;21:540-542.

Terasawa H, Miyoshi M, and Imoto T. Effects of long-term administration of Gymnema sylvestre watery-extract on variations of body weight, plasma glucose, serum triglyceride, total cholesterol and insulin in Wistar fatty rats. Yonago Acta Med 1994;37:117-127.

Tominaga M, Kimura M, Sugiyama K, and et al. Effects of seishin-renshi-in and Gymnema sylvestre on insulin resistance in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. Diabet Res Clin Pract 1995;29:11-17.

Wang LF, Luo H, Miyoshi M, and et al. Inhibitory effect of gymnemic acid on intestinal absorption of oleic acid in rats. Can J Physiol Pharmacol 1998;76:1017-1023.

Xie, J. T., Wang, A., Mehendale, S., Wu, J., Aung, H. H., Dey, L., Qiu, S., and Yuan, C. S. Anti-diabetic effects of Gymnema yunnanense extract. Pharmacol Res 2003;47(4):323-329. View abstract.

Ye, W., Liu, X., Zhang, Q., Che, C. T., and Zhao, S. Antisweet saponins from Gymnema sylvestre. J Nat.Prod. 2001;64(2):232-235. View abstract.

Yoshikawa, M., Murakami, T., Kadoya, M., Li, Y., Murakami, N., Yamahara, J., and Matsuda, H. Medicinal foodstuffs. IX. The inhibitors of glucose absorption from the leaves of Gymnema sylvestre R. BR. (Asclepiadaceae): structures of gymnemosides a and b. Chem.Pharm Bull.(Tokyo) 1997;45(10):1671-1676. View abstract.

Ananthan R, Baskar C, NarmathaBai V, et al. Antidiabetic effect of Gymnema montanum leaves: effect on lipid peroxidation induced oxidative stress in experimental diabetes. Pharmacol Res 2003;48:551-6. View abstract.

Baskaran K, Kizar Ahamath B, Radha Shanmugasundaram K, Shanmugasundaram ER. Antidiabetic effect of leaf extract from Gymnema sylvestre in non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus patients. J Ethnopharmacol 1990;30:295-300. View abstract.

Head KA. Type 1 diabetes: prevention of the disease and its complications. Townsend Letter for Doctors & Patients 1998;180:72-84.

Katsukawa H, Imoto T, Ninomiya Y. Induction of salivary gurmarin-binding proteins in rats fed gymnema-containing diets. Chem Senses 1999;24:387-92. View abstract.

Luo H, Kashiwagi A, Shibahara T, Yamada K. Decreased bodyweight without rebound and regulated lipoprotein metabolism by gymnemate in genetic multifactor syndrome animal. Mol Cell Biochem 2007;299:93-8. View abstract.

Persaud SJ, Al-Majed H, Raman A, Jones PM. Gymnema sylvestre stimulates insulin release in vitro by increased membrane permeability. J Endocrinol 1999;163:207-12. View abstract.

Preuss HG, Bagchi D, Bagchi M, et al. Effects of a natural extract of (-)-hydroxycitric acid (HCA-SX) and a combination of HCA-SX plus niacin-bound chromium and Gymnema sylvestre extract on weight loss. Diabetes Obes Metab 2004;6:171-180. View abstract.

Satdive RK, Abhilash P, Fulzele DP. Antimicrobial activity of Gymnema sylvestre leaf extract. Fitoterapia 2003;74:699-701. View abstract.

Shanmugasundaram ER, Rajeswari G, Baskaran K, et al. Use of Gymnema sylvestre leaf extract in the control of blood glucose in insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus. J Ethnopharmacol 1990;30:281-94. View abstract.

Sinsheimer JE, Subba-Rao G, McIlhenny HM. Constitents from G sylvestre leaves: isolation and preliminary characterization of the gymnemic acids. J Pharmacol Sci 1970;59:622-8.

Yeh GY, Eisenberg DM, Kaptchuk TJ, Phillips RS. Systematic review of herbs and dietary supplements for glycemic control in diabetes. Diabetes Care 2003;26:1277-94. View abstract.

How Gymnema Can Regulate Blood Sugar & Reduce Cravings

By Vera Martins

There is a world out there packed with natural supplements, herbs and superfoods, which are often advertised as the ultimate health trend. However, as a naturopath and herbalist, I must confess I have a soft spot for those herbs and foods that are often too shy to make it to the front pages. That is why today I bring you Gymnema sylvestre, an overlooked wonder herb original from India but widely available, which can help you manage those stubborn sugar cravings. It is also known as “gurmar”, which means “destroyer of sugar” in Hindi. In fact, this herb is best known for its ability to suppress the desire for sweet-tasting foods as well as balancing blood sugar levels, with a fair amount of scientific research backing up these claims.

The end of sweet cravings

Gymnema’s ability to reduce sugar cravings is due mainly to a component called gymnemic acid, which has a similar structure to sugar molecules. Therefore, when it comes in contact with the tongue, it binds to the sugar receptors in the taste buds preventing binding by the sugar molecules in food, which reduces the taste of sweetness. This effect can help you limit the desire for and consequent intake of sweet foods. In a study, people who were given Gymnema one hour before being offered food had their perception of sweetness reduced and were more likely to eat fewer sweet calories than the control group.

Gymnema for balanced blood sugar levels 

The gymnemic acid present in Gymnema is also believed to prevent the absorption of excess glucose in the small intestine, thereby helping to balance the amount of glucose in your bloodstream. One study performed in a small cohort of patients with type 2 diabetes showed that Gymnema was able to reduce blood sugar levels as well as stimulate insulin secretion from the pancreas. Moreover, it also showed the ability to regenerate beta cells in the pancreas, which are the cells responsible for insulin production, and whose function is usually impaired in type 2 diabetes. Additionally, this plant also seems to improve the ratio of “good” (HDL) to “bad” (LDL) cholesterol, one important predictive indicator of heart disease.

Altogether, there are several studies supporting the blood sugar and insulin regulating effects of Gymnema, and a recent randomized double-blind clinical study also reported a statistically significant reduction in body weight, BMI and LDL values. Although Gymnema can be a great option to address your relationship with sugar be aware that its use with diabetic patients still requires more scientific validation and clinical approval.

How to take Gymnema

Gymnema can be taken in several forms such as capsules, tincture, powder or tea. It is important to always look for a product standardised to contain at least 25% gymnemic acid. If taken in capsule form, possibly the most convenient way, the recommended dosage is 100 mg taken three to four times a day. Avoid taking it on an empty stomach and have it with food instead as Gymnema may cause digestive discomfort.

Taking Gymnema is generally safe however women who are pregnant or lactating, and people with an allergy to milkweed, should avoid it. Also, people on anti-diabetic medication should take it with caution as a cumulative blood-sugar lowering effect may occur. It is advised to always consult a qualified herbalist before taking Gymnema or any herbal supplements in general. You can book an appointment to talk to me about supplements and nutrition here.

Is Gymnema right for me?

Nowadays, most of us are aware of the benefits of avoiding refined sugar, since the later has been linked to the development of conditions such as diabetes, obesity, heart disease, and PCOS amongst others. Having a balanced diet with protein, healthy fats, vegetables and complex carbohydrates in every meal, while avoiding refined sugar, is key to maintain your insulin and blood sugar levels stable. However, if you have a sweet spot for sweets, it becomes more difficult to maintain a refined-sugar-free or low sugar diet. That is when Gymnema, together with a healthy diet and regular exercise, may become your best friend, giving you the willpower you need to keep away from those mid-afternoon biscuits.

By Vera Martins, PHD. You can book a nutrition consultation with Vera at the Marion Gluck Clinic here. 

References

Al-Romaiyan A, Liu B, Asare-Anane H, Maity CR, Chatterjee SK, Koley N, Biswas T, Chatterji AK, Huang GC, Amiel SA, Persaud SJ, Jones PM (2010). A novel Gymnema sylvestre extract stimulates insulin secretion from human islets in vivo and in vitro. Phytother Res.; 24(9):1370-6.

Baskaran K, Kizar Ahamath B, Radha Shanmugasundaram K, Shanmugasundaram ER (1990). Antidiabetic effect of a leaf extract from Gymnema sylvestre in non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus patients. J. Ethnopharmacol. 30 295–300.

Brala PM, Hagen RL(1983). Effects of sweetness perception and caloric value of a preload on short term intake. Physiol Behav., 30(1):1-9.

ClinicalTrials.gov (2016). Available at: https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02370121

Imoto T, Miyasaka A, Ishima R, Akasaka K (1991). A novel peptide isolated from the leaves of Gymnema sylvestre—I. Characterization and its suppressive effect on the neural responses to sweet taste stimuli in the rat.

Comp. Biochem. Physiol. Part A Physiol. 100 309–314.

Li Y, Zheng M, Zhai X, Huang Y, Khalid A, Malik A, et al. (2015). Effect of-

Gymnema sylvestre, citrullus colocynthis and Artemisia absinthium on blood glucose and lipid profile in diabetic human. Acta Pol. Pharm. 72 981–985.

Luo H, Kashiwagi A, Shibahara T, Yamada K (2007). Decreased bodyweight without rebound and regulated lipoprotein metabolism by gymnemate in genetic multifactor syndrome animal. Mol Cell Biochem., 299(1-2):93-8.

Ota A and Ulrih NP (2017). An Overview of Herbal Products and Secondary Metabolites Used for Management of Type Two Diabetes.

Front Pharmacol. 8: 436.

Singh DK, Kumar N, Sachan A, Lakhani P, Tutu S, Nath R, Sachan AK, Dixit RK (2017). Hypolipidaemic Effects of Gymnema sylvestre on High Fat Diet Induced Dyslipidaemia in Wistar Rats. J Clin Diagn Res. 11(5)

Zuñiga LY, González-Ortiz M, Martínez-Abundis E (2017). Effect of Gymnema sylvestre Administration on Metabolic Syndrome, Insulin Sensitivity, and Insulin Secretion. J Med Food. 20(8):750-754.

The Plant That Helps Control Your Sugar Cravings – Sweet Defeat

How to Use Gymnema Sylvestre For Sugar Cravings

Gymnema sylvestre comes in many different forms, ranging from lozenges to powders and capsules. In ancient Ayurvedic medicine, Gymnema sylvestre was usually consumed as a tea, which was brewed using the leaves of the plant. People would crush, grind, or simply soak the leaves in hot water. However, the tea can taste very bitter so many people now prefer to take Gymnema sylvestre as a lozenge that includes zinc and mint to mask the bitterness.

While you can take Gymnema sylvestre in a number of ways, the easiest and most common ways to consume this plant is in a lozenge form. You simply let the lozenge dissolve in your mouth like a breath mint, which allows the gymnemic acids to coat your tongue. This coating is sufficient to block sugar from binding to your sweet taste buds. Capsules are another form factor for Gymnema sylvestre, but they’re less effective at blocking ability to taste sweetness since the gymnemic acids need to be in contact with your tongue to work. Also, capsules are not as fast-acting as lozenges, which can reduce their effectiveness.

Controlling the dosage of the Gymnema sylvestre plant can be a challenge; however, the lozenge makes that easier compared to other forms. Sweet Defeat lozenges have gone through stringent testing protocols and development to isolate gymnemic acids in their purest form. Sweet Defeat is the only gymnema product on the market that has been clinically tested and proven. When it comes to tea and other forms, the amount of gymnemic acids in the leaves can vary, and the dosage can also change depending on how long you steep the leaves and at what temperature. Sweet Defeat contains 2.5 mg of gymnemic acids.

If you use a mouthwash containing Gymnema sylvestre, you need to keep it in your mouth for a few minutes to make sure it can take effect on your taste buds. The mouthwash can work to stop cravings, but it requires you to carry the liquid around with you so that it’s accessible when cravings strike, and the bitter flavor is often still an issue for most users.

There’s some science behind claims that gymnema can curb sugar cravings

Gymnema is being studied for its potential as a drug for treating diabetes and other metabolic disorders, and preliminary results are promising. In these trials, intakes ranging from about 200 to 400 mg of gymnemic acids have been shown to reduce the intestinal absorption of glucose and increase the production of insulin. That does not mean gymnema is a recommended way to treat high blood sugar at this point. Yehuda Handelsman, an endocrinologist in clinical practice and medical director of the Metabolic Institute of America, says, “Gymnema has not been adequately studied or evaluated for efficacy and safety” in treating high blood sugar. We don’t know what the proper dose is, its side effects, or interactions with other medications, to name a few pending questions. So I’d stay away from the pill form — sometimes marketed as “blood sugar support” — because it’s difficult to gauge the impact it could have on your body. For one thing, it’s possible the pills could cause dangerously low blood ­sugar.

If you’re someone who would simply like to see whether gymnema works for you to tame sugar cravings, you can find gymnema leaves, teas and liquid supplements online, though they are often described as bitter. I decided to try gymnema in the form of a lozenge called Sweet Defeat, whose bold assertion that it could “stop sugar cravings in seconds” is the kind of statement that sets off my fake-o-meter. Because each lozenge has a small amount (2 mg) of gymnemic acids, extracted from about 15 of the plant’s leaves, Handelsman says “they would most likely not be dangerous.”

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The circumstances for my trial couldn’t have been more perfect, because my daughter was making brownies for a school fundraiser that night. I warned her I had to eat at least one — in the name of science. After savoring half of a deliciously fudgy brownie, relishing its rich, sticky-sweet flavor, I popped a Sweet Defeat in my mouth. The tiny lozenge tasted powerfully minty with a cooling, almost numbing, effect — kind of like a doubly strong Altoid. I noticed a hint of bitterness, but the mint flavor overrode that.

After a few minutes, I tried the other half of the brownie. This time it tasted like putty — all gooeyness and no flavor. Some of the essence of the chocolate wafted up pleasantly into my nose, but with its sweetness blocked, the brownie was completely unappetizing. The effect lasted for about an hour.

I have to acknowledge that, as a culinary professional and passionate food lover, it made me a little uneasy to interfere with my sense of taste, even temporarily. And I don’t have an out-of-control sweet tooth like I used to — a bite or two of something sweet is all I need to feel satisfied. So I can’t say the lozenge made a difference for me that night.

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But the scenario reminded me of a fairly traumatic collision I had with a batch of my grandmother’s brownies when I was a teenager; I gobbled at least 10 before a stomachache finally stopped me. Looking back, I see how my ultra-restrictive eating at that time in my life left me vulnerable to that brownie binge. Research backs up this notion. The authors of a 2016 review of studies on sugar addiction published in the European Journal of Nutrition concluded that animal studies showing addiction-like behaviors around sugar occurred only in animals that were on restrictive diets, not in those fed liberally. The sugar cravings these products are designed to eliminate seem to at least partially be the result of the extremely restrictive, just-say-no-to-sugar diets that have taken hold.

What finally allowed me to gain control over sugar wasn’t taking a supplement to stem my cravings, but learning to eat a more moderate, balanced diet as a way of life. I don’t think gymnema is going to solve our more deep-seated issues around sugar. But it might be helpful in temporarily riding out food cravings — which are known to come on strong at first but fade after a little time. Regardless of whether you try it, consider adopting long-term changes toward making such cravings a thing of the past.

medicinal plant, application, reviews, useful properties, contraindications

In medicine

Gymnema forest is a medicinal tropical plant widely known for its beneficial properties in Ayurvedic medicine. The plant is not pharmacopoeial, but recently its popularity has increased almost all over the world. Plant leaf extract is an active ingredient in many dietary supplements. In traditional medicine, gimnema leaf extract has been used for about 70 years as an antidiabetic agent, as well as a means to normalize metabolism in the body.It has been proven that the plant is capable of lowering glucose levels, preventing its absorption in the intestines. By improving the absorption of glucose by cells, gimnema leaves thereby prevent fatty liver. Gimnema extract has a beneficial effect on pancreatic cells, promotes their recovery, increases insulin synthesis, promotes the activation of enzymes that are involved in glucose metabolism, and also blocks the absorption of sugar in the gastrointestinal tract.

Recently, the antiviral, antibacterial and antifungal properties of gimnema forest have been proven.The plant’s leaf extract is used in the complex therapy of diabetes and obesity. In addition, the plant is used in gynecological practice, in particular in the treatment of candidiasis. Gymnema has a tonic effect on the entire human body, can be used as a preventive measure for ARVI, in the fight against edema and allergies, as well as to improve digestion and eliminate constipation. Known use of forest gimnema in ophthalmic practice, for example, for the treatment of cataracts. In addition, gimnema is considered an effective treatment for gout and rheumatoid arthritis.Gymnema forest extract is an active component of Nutri-Bern protein cocktail (USA).

Contraindications and side effects

Despite the beneficial properties, forest gimnema has some contraindications, in particular, individual intolerance to the components, pregnancy and lactation. Patients with diabetes mellitus with hypoglycemia should use herbal remedies only after consulting a doctor. Contraindications for dzhimnema forest include a tendency to manifest allergic reactions and childhood.

In cosmetology

Possessing antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory properties, Gymnema is used for certain dermatological diseases, skin itching, various inflammations on the skin, acne and boils. For example, Gudmar Patra churna is a therapeutic and cosmetic product in the form of a paste, the active ingredient of which is an extract of gimnema leaves, is used for skin inflammations, and quickly heals wounds.

Gymnema sylvester: for those with a sweet tooth who want to keep themselves in control

I sometimes think that it is easier to walk by and not buy sweetness, than to count and measure slices and pieces, limiting yourself.Good for those for whom the best delicacy is a fried steak. The good thing is that there are various additives that help relieve excessive sugar cravings. Gymnema is one of them, although she does not always succeed.

Planetary Herbals, Ayurveda, Full Spectrum, Gymnema, 450 mg, 120 tablets

Gymnema sylvester is also known under other names – Gimnema, Goodmar, Meshashringi (Skt. Meshashringi). Gymnema forest – evergreen vine with long stems, elliptical leaves, small yellowish flowers.The plant is widely used in Ayurvedic medicine as an antidiabetic agent, possessing many useful properties, in particular, sugar-reducing ones. The main substance in the composition of gimnema is gimnemic (gimnemic) acid and gourmarine, they act on the receptors of the tongue, reducing taste sensations, thereby suppressing appetite and cravings for sweets. Gymnema is also able to block the absorption of glucose in the gastrointestinal tract.

Gymnema is also known in Russian pharmacies as oligim, only our analogue has a very small dose in one tablet, you need to take several pieces.Accordingly, the price for the required dose is higher.

To be honest, Gymnema does not affect me very clearly, only in combination with chromium picolinate. But here I prefer pure chromium picolinate, as it really removes cravings for sweets at times.

But my mom really likes Gymnema, and I order it for her. For several years, my mother showed increased blood sugar, she began to closely monitor her diet and limit her sugar intake. Jimnemu takes it as a maintenance supplement.The next analysis for sugar was taken in early November, level 6.1, in old age this is quite a good result.

Planetary Herbals Gymnem is 450 mg. Mom first took this dosage in courses, but now she takes half the dose every day. According to her, this option also works. And in this case, one can is enough for a very long time.

Gymnema tablets are dark brown, flat, elongated. And they easily break in half just by the effort of your fingers, you don’t need to cut anything.

I really like the smell of dzhimnema: something very warm, summertime emanates from the jar – fermented homemade kvass on rye crusts or Borodino bread.

Thank you for your attention! Thank you for using the code VQH901 in your order.

properties and contraindications of the plant against sugar

Known as an anti-sugar plant, Gymnema is suitable for weight loss and blood sugar reduction. Let’s find out the properties and possible contraindications of this climbing plant.

Gymnema (scientific name Sylvester’s Gymnema) is a climbing plant that can reach large sizes. Belonging to the Asclepiadaceae family, it is widely distributed in the tropical regions of the Asian, African and Australian continents.

It has oval leaves and yellow bells.

This herb has medicinal properties, known in Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine .In particular, hypoglycemic properties are attributed to this botanical species. For this reason, it is considered a plant versus sugar . It is used as an aid in weight loss diets . He can also prove to be a good ally for those suffering from diabetes .

DISCOVER: Natural Sugar Alternatives

Gymnema property

The origin of its beneficial properties should be traced to the chemical composition of this botanical species.The active ingredients extracted from the leaves of the plant are at least nine glycosidic acids. Among them, the most active is gymnemic acid . This molecule is similar to glucose but is larger.

It acts on our body in the intestines, helping to reduce the absorption of sugars consumed with food by 50%. This hypoglycemic effect occurs one hour after ingestion of the plant extract.

Another effect on the body occurs at the level of taste buds.Another active ingredient, gourmarine , is responsible for this effect. This molecule has anti-sweetening properties simply by applying it to the tongue.

Thus, the consumption of this plant affects only the perception of the sweet and bitter taste of food.

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Gymnema instructions for use

This plant is included in various types of food additives.These are usually foods aimed at weight loss and blood glucose control. It can also be used directly for internal use by taking a dry extract. The latter are usually sold in the form of capsules or tablets.

In Indian Ayurvedic Medicine , this herb was a natural remedy that has been used for centuries to lower blood sugar levels in people with diabetes. It is also used to prevent and treat certain eye conditions.Used in the form of eye drops, they are able to prevent clouding of the lens due to excess glucose.

Posology Gymnema sylvestre

The dosage depends on the purpose for which the extracts of this botanical species are used. You can take 500 to 1000 mg of dry extract in two divided doses. One dose is taken in the middle of the morning, the other in the middle of the day.

In particular, to obtain effect weight loss doses are approximately 250/500 mg of the active ingredient.It can be taken daily about an hour before meals.

Gymnema for weight loss

The hypoglycemic properties of this plant make it suitable for use in weight loss diets. Therefore, it can be used as a valuable ally for weight loss. In this regard, lowering blood glucose levels indirectly helps.

Has laxative action, especially in cases where constipation is associated with a condition obesity . The plant also affects the taste buds, changing the perception of sweet and bitter.Putting a small amount on your tongue will quickly reduce your cravings for sweets.

In fact, the ability to perceive aroma is canceled for some time. Thus, in this sense, it curbs the cravings for greedy and sugary foods.

Gymnema: Known as an anti-sugar herb with the ability to alter the perception of sweet taste.

Gymnema and Diabetes

This plant has proven to be a loyal ally for people with diabetes. In particular, it appears to be useful in insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus or type II diabetes mellitus .It can also be used by those with food hyperglycemia. Indeed, the active ingredient contains a molecule with a structure similar to that of glucose.

By binding to intestinal receptors responsible for the absorption of sucrose, it helps to block them. The effect of this block is quite quick and lasts for several hours from the moment it is taken. Thus, the absorption of sugars is reduced by 50%.

Gymnema: Due to its hypoglycemic effects, it can be a real help for those with diabetes.

Gymnema contraindications

The use of extracts of this plant is contraindicated in cases of identified hypersensitivity to one or more of its components. In addition, those who are concurrently taking oral hypoglycemic agents should pay particular attention to the dosage of the plant extract. Patients with diabetes mellitus receiving insulin should also be careful.

Therefore, they are required to adapt the dosage of the drug. Concomitant use can cause a decrease in blood sugar levels.

There are no known specific toxic effects of this substance when taken by pregnant or lactating women. In any case, it is advisable to always take the plant extract only after consulting a doctor.

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BAA Evalar Olijim – “ANTIJRIN of sweets or how to stop eating sweets | Is it real after it you don’t feel like eating? Is the result long enough? Does it make sense to use it? »

As long as I can remember, I am constantly losing weight.Well, as always, in fact I can gobble up a chocolate cake, but in my thoughts, in my thoughts, I am very permanent.

Always, almost always, my weight loss consists in increased physical activity, a lot of cosmetics aimed at reducing body volume or cellulite reduction. One way or another, my weight loss is most often based on the elements accompanying nutrition. And why? Because I love to eat. This is my hobby since childhood.

I have tried many supplements supposedly to reduce appetite.But things are still there. As ate, so I eat , forgive me, as I ate and still eat.

Often such remedies were based on blocking appetite with bran, fiber or microcrystalline cellulose. In fact, all these funds belong to biologically active additives, and due to their plant origin, they naturally dull appetite, and sometimes have a number of other positive effects on the body.

BUT! They also have the other side of the coin, they dull their appetite simply by filling the stomach.After all, when wet, they become two or even three times their own volume.

I don’t like this way of blocking appetite at all. Because the feeling of hunger does not go anywhere, you still want to eat everything that is not nailed down. But in fact, the severity and excess volume in the stomach.

But he who seeks will always find. And I found a miraculous plant called Gymnema Sylvester . A plant that not only normalizes blood sugar levels, stimulates carbohydrate metabolism and restores pancreatic cells by producing insulin, but also optimizes the diet, which is what I am striving for.

Why exactly carbohydrate metabolism and, in general, attention to Jimnem? I am a terrible sweet tooth (not scary in the literal sense). I cannot be within a radius of 500 meters with a chocolate bar, I really love cakes and pastries, and sweet pastries are my love and passion. Now I have listed what I think I can eat forever. The effect of such a diet on the body, I suppose, is not worth explaining?

The plant of Gymnema Sylvester, which means Gymnema Lesnaya, in the Russian sale is represented by a non-medicinal preparation Oligim from Evalar.I also know that you can buy Jimnem as a dietary supplement on iHerb, but today we will talk specifically about Olijim .

❗️ WHY?

Gymnema leaf extract is widely used for the production of dietary supplements. The main focus is taken by drugs against diabetes mellitus, as well as for the normalization of metabolism. The ability of Gymnema leaves to restore pancreatic cells by producing insulin has been identified and proven.But that’s not all:

Recently, the antiviral, antibacterial and antifungal properties of Gymnema forest have been proven.

Studies have also been carried out on the influence of Gymnema leaves in gynecology, ophthalmology and some other areas of medicine. In absolutely all areas, the use of Gymnema leaf extract was entirely positive. This is partly why Gymnema is one of the most popular plants used in Ayurvedic medicine.

The medicinal effect of the use of Gymnema leaves is as follows:

Prevention, supportive treatment of diabetes mellitus;

Normalization of blood sugar concentration;

Activation of insulin production;

Stabilization of carbohydrate metabolism;

Regeneration of pancreatic cells;

And also:

• Reducing the level of bad cholesterol;
• Removal of excess fluid, elimination of congestion and edema, due to the diuretic effect;
• Weight reduction, adjunctive treatment for obesity;
• Relief of symptoms in gout, rheumatoid arthritis;
• Prevention of vascular and cardiac pathologies;
• Strengthening the body’s defenses, preventing infectious and viral diseases;
• Normalization of the functioning of the digestive system;
• Improving the functioning of the kidneys, liver;
• Prevention of eye diseases.

Gymnema leaves are just a storehouse of positive effects on the body.

❗️ PACKAGING

Oligim is presented in the form of ordinary small tablets in a plastic blister of 20 pieces. The package contains 5 blisters, respectively, 100 tablets. I have not come across any other variations with the amount of Olijim.

❗️ OLIGIM PRICE

Oligim’s box cost me 261 rubles.When calculating the use of 4 tablets per day, the packaging will last for a little less than a month (and the manufacturer recommended one of the application regimens, just with a break of 5 days).

❗️ SHELF LIFE

Shelf life is three years and it is also stamped on each blister with tablets, it’s a pity that the almost unreadable font was chosen, or rather the place of application.

❗️ OLIGIM TABLETS

Oligim tablets are standard size, gray-marsh color.They are completely odorless, and the taste is something herbal and chalky with bitterness.

In general, for a comfortable use, the tablets are best taken with a little water. But if you want to beat off your appetite for a long time, you just need to chew the pill without drinking it.

❗️ OLIGIM INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE

Oligim’s instructions are unusually short (small). This is due to the fact that Oligim is not a drug and has practically no contraindications, except perhaps for pregnant women and women on hepatitis B.

In other cases, with certain diseases, in consultation with the attending physician, the drug is approved for use.

❗️ OLIGIM COMPOSITION

Oligim consists of only two components – inulin and Gymnema extract. That one, that the other have a beneficial effect on the body getting into the gastrointestinal tract. Both components are aimed at improving, stimulating carbohydrate metabolism in the body, as well as normalizing blood sugar levels.Most importantly, with a long intake of inulin and Gymnema extract, no side effects have been identified, which means that you can use Oligim without worrying about the consequences.

❗️ OLIGIM APPLICATION

Adults take 2 tablets 2 times a day with meals. Duration of admission is 25 days. Recommended regular intake with a 5-day break.

4 tablets of Olijima contain 160 mg of Gymnema. Fair? This is not enough. Dietary supplements with AyHerba based on Gymnema start from 350-400 mg in ONE capsule.Here, in order to get half the dose from a dietary supplement with AyHerb, you need to drink as much as 4 !!! pills.

But to assess the result and effect on the body, this dose, in principle, is enough.

I try to drink Oligim at lunchtime and in the evening, in the morning I allow any food in my diet.

❗️ OLIGIM EFFECT

It’s hard to believe, but I don’t want sweets. I still have sweet New Year’s gifts and I don’t reach for them.I stopped frantically shoveling chocolate in supermarkets, and I also stopped absorbing it in bars.

In the first couple of hours after taking Olijim, I don’t feel like eating AT ALL. NOTHING AT ALL. Even the most beloved product is perceived calmly and loyally. The endless desire to eat something tasty disappears. And in general, food leaves the forefront and there is no need to occupy your mouth with something.

I have been taking Oligim for a month (though with interruptions), I have not revealed any negative or unpleasant side effects, but I feel a blockage of appetite with each intake.

I highly recommend it!

90,000 Now Foods, Gymnema Sylvestre, 400 mg, 90 Vegetarian Capsules

Now Foods, Gymnema Sylvestre, 400 mg, 90 Veg Capsules

Promotes pancreatic health. Supports glucose and fat metabolism. Reduces blood sugar. Promotes weight loss. Vegetarian formula. Quality assured GMP.

Manufacturer: NOW Foods, USA.
Product form: 90 vegetarian capsules per pack.

Other Ingredients: Cellulose (capsule), rice flour, magnesium stearate (vegetable source) and silicon dioxide.
Does not contain: yeast, wheat, gluten, soy, milk, egg, fish, shellfish and tree nuts.

Functional action
• Stimulates the functioning of the pancreas and the production of insulin. Suspends the development of diabetes mellitus and its complications.
• Normalizes carbohydrate metabolism.
• Supports healthy glucose metabolism. Regulates blood sugar concentration.
• Increases the sensitivity of cells to insulin.
• Activates enzymes necessary for the breakdown of glucose.
• Interferes with the absorption of sugar in the stomach and intestines.
• Regulates lipid metabolism, preventing the deposition of harmful cholesterol and diseases of the cardiovascular system.
• Promotes weight loss.
• Suppresses cravings for sugary foods.Affects the taste buds of the tongue, blocking them, and alters the taste sensation when sugar enters the mouth.
• Is an antioxidant.

Indications for use
• Diabetes.
• Hereditary predisposition to sugar disease.
• Overweight and obesity.

Directions for use: Take 1 capsule daily.

Contraindications: Individual intolerance to the components.

Side Effects: Gymnema Sylvester has no side effects. In healthy people, sugar levels do not rise or fall, while remaining normal.

Attention! For adults only. Consult a healthcare practitioner before using this product if you are pregnant / breastfeeding, taking other medications (especially insulin and oral diabetic medications), or have other medical conditions.

Storage conditions: Store in a cool, dry place, out of reach of children, after opening.

More about Gymnema Sylvester.
Gymnema Sylvestre is a plant (herb) native to the rainforests of India and Sri Lanka. This herb has traditionally been used in India for centuries. Gymnema’s bioactive component is gimnemic acid.
It was officially recognized as a cure for diabetes over 70 years ago. It was then, according to the results of analyzes, that the use of the leaves of the plant helps to reduce blood and urine sugar levels and increase serum insulin levels.
Modern research has shown that Gymnema supports healthy glucose metabolism through its ability to support the functioning of the pancreas.
In addition, it is believed that Gymnema not only stimulates the synthesis of insulin, but is also able to restore pancreatic cells.

Now Foods, Gymnema Sylvestre, Buy in Kiev, Buy in Ukraine.

For weight loss and diabetes + tonus

Gymnema Sylvestre and Company (updated)

(RESEARCH about it on ncbi here )
Strong, with diabetes reduces sugar undisciplined.
Many of my relatives take it for different purposes, I have only one diabetic, and there are many who want to lose weight and be cheerful.
She has no side effects, she has not been noticed to lower sugar below the norm in healthy people.

Gymnema also possesses a powerful tonic property, people use it in full when doing sports, because two in one – both a tonic and a sweet restraint.
Reduces cravings for sweets and cakes – because the leaf extract contains gimnemic acid , which has properties to reduce the flow of glucose from the intestines into the blood.In addition, because of her, sweet ceases to be tasty for the tongue. (The ancient name of this plant is translated as “sugar destroyer” if you chew a gimnema leaf, and then sugar – there will be no taste). The binding effect of the sweet taste lasts about 40 minutes.

Gymnema promotes the restoration of pancreatic cells, increases the formation of insulin and the sensitivity of cells to it, stimulates the activity of enzymes involved in glucose metabolism, and blocks the absorption of sugar in the gastrointestinal tract.

Can it be for children with type 1 diabetes, the dosage should be calculated by age as usual.

Gymnema extract is recommended not only for treatment, but also for the prevention of diabetes (especially in old age).
Sylvester’s Gymnema is capable of completely preventing diabetes if caught early.

Used for the treatment of arthritis, as a diuretic, for anemia, osteoporosis, hypercholesterolemia, cardiopathy, asthma, constipation, microbial infections, indigestion and as an anti-inflammatory ( study ).

And yet, it has a very good effect on the intestines, the girls say they will constantly take it, because to all the benefits, and uh .. such an intimate detail, everything is very clean in the process of visiting a faience friend, and doctors always ask about this, because an indicator of the correct functioning of the gastrointestinal tract.

RECOMMENDATIONS: take before meals, drink well. The course of admission I met was different – a month and a half after two, and three after three.

NOTES: May increase cellular immunity, i. e. has an immunomodulatory effect, undesirable in autoimmune diseases with Th-1 dominance.

For a diabetic mom, I nailed to the obligatory jars (there are still others, but they are after these).

1. Gymnema sylvester
and such

2. Advanced magnesium , although there is quite a bit of the usual in the “factors”, but there is little against diabetic neuropathy

3. Alpha lipoic acid (simple , or right) (link in the post about it). It must be borne in mind that in diabetes, vitamin B12 is very important , in therapeutic doses, and its course must be alternated, and not combined with the course of alpha-lipoic acid.

4. Lecithin reduces the need for sweets, just like magnesium, but the mechanism of action here is completely different from that of Gymnema. Sugar destroys cells, while lecithin is involved in their restoration.

5. Chromium . The right amount of chromium helps the body use insulin better and maintain normal blood glucose levels. This is the first remedy for diabetes and for those who find it difficult to lose weight.

6. There is an alternative to individual jars:

==== Good new drug , expensive, which combines a lot of benefits for diabetes treatment – there is also Gymnema in the right dose, and chromium with vanadium, and bitter melon with cinnamon, right alpha lipoic acid, fenugreek, quercetin and blueberry.Does not replace diabetes medications.

==== Also new preparation from own brands of aicherb (therefore inexpensive and with discounts). Category itested , which means that the complex consists of extracts and substances produced by well-known verified companies (trademarks are listed in the annotation), specializing only in this raw material (Aicherb does not produce anything by itself), then independent laboratories check the compliance of the complex with the declared composition.

As part of chromium, patented extracts of: cinnamon, separately: fenugreek with grape seed extract with the addition of vanadium, separately: a mixture for the assimilation of all this good – a patented extract with bioperine, ginger and enzymes. Also does not replace diabetes medication.

====================================== ====

Code for 5% Discount on All Orders ZHL245

90,000 Source Naturals Ultra Power Gymnema, 550 mg, 120 Tablets

This product has the status “on order” – delivery to our warehouse takes 6 – 8 business days.

Attention! Delivery times may vary, it depends on the work of transport companies.

• The goods will be delivered from the USA especially for you, so we only accept an order for work on after receiving an advance payment of (partial or full).
• After placing an order, manager will contact you and specify the terms of payment and delivery.
• You can trust us. The Sitimama online store has been operating for more than 5 years on the market and has more than 1000 positive reviews .
• By clicking the “BUY” button – you agree to the terms of delivery and payment.

Description

Dear customers! The product description is taken from the manufacturer’s website and may contain untranslated fragments. We are sorry for the inconvenience caused. We are working on translation.

• Food additive
• 75% Gymnemic acids
• Maintains healthy blood sugar

Gymnema Sylvestre Source Naturals Ultra Potency helps maintain healthy blood sugar when used as part of your diet.Traditionally used in India for centuries, this herb has been shown to support healthy glucose metabolism by regulating insulin activity and supporting healthy pancreatic function. Ultra Potency Gymnema Sylvestre is standardized to 75% Gymnemic Acids for powerful metabolic support.