Madhunashini, the wonder Ayurvedic herb to combat Diabetes

Diabetes is one of the most common lifestyle diseases across the globe and is estimated to cause approximately 1.6 million deaths per year. This figure is expected to double by 2030, if appropriate steps are not taken to control it. Though different medicines are available to combat this disease, most of them come with various side effects. Ayurveda has some simple yet effective and safe herbs that can help you control diabetes in the long run. Among the many such herbs is Madhunashini, scientifically known as Gymnema sylvestre. This woody climbing shrub with elliptical leaves and small yellow flowers produced throughout the year is native to the tropical forests of India, Africa and Australia. From ancient times, these leaves have been used in various Ayurvedic concoctions. In Ayurveda, diabetes is referred to as “Madhumeh”. That’s why this plant is also called Madhunashini, meaning “destroyer of sugar”.

How does it work: This herb works by inhibiting sugar absorption as its leaves contain triterpenoid saponins, flavonols and gurmarin, the sweet taste-suppressing polypeptide. A very effective herbal medicine to control diabetes naturally, Madhunashini helps in reducing sugar cravings and achieving better control over blood sugar levels. It activates the pancreas and helps it secrete a balanced quantity of insulin, by which extra glucose gets converted into Glycogen.
This plant is rich in Gymnemic acid, and this helps in suppressing sweetness. When consumed, the acid blocks the sugar receptors on your taste buds and reduces sugar cravings, thus making sweet foods less appealing. The sugar blocking effect of this herb works very quickly but is not permanent; it is estimated to last up to one hour from the time the herbal supplement is taken. Thus it prevents any long term side effects thereby making it safe for consumption. Another way it helps is by blocking the receptors in your intestines and thus reducing sugar absorption, thereby helping you to lower your post-meal blood sugar levels. In most cases, it is traditionally consumed as a tea by brewing in hot water or by chewing its leaves. It can also be ingested in extract, pill or leaf powder form.

While Madhunashini helps to reduce blood glucose levels, an indirect advantage is the way it helps your heart and liver. Diabetes in the long run is detrimental to your internal organs and cause organ failure and heart attacks. Thus, Madhunashini is the perfect Ayurvedic herb for your overall health. Itoozhi Ayurveda is one of the leading traditional Ayurveda Hospitals in Kerala and is famous for diagnosis and treatment of Lifestyle Diseases.