Gymnema sylvestre: Boosts your insulinChhindwara district in Madhya Pradesh comprises mostly dense forests. The tribal region of Patalkot is located at a depth of 1200-1500 feet in a valley near Tamia in the north of the district. Because of the great depth at which it is located, this place is christened as 'Patalkot' (Patal means very deep, in Sanskrit). Patalkot is spread over an area of 79 sq.km. at an average height of 2750-3250 feet above mean sea level.
There are 12 villages and 13 hamlets in this valley, with a total population of nearly 2000. Because of the inaccessibility of this area, the tribals of this region were totally cut off from the civilized world. Most of the people in Patalkot belong to 'Bharia' and 'Gond' tribes. This valley is situated on the Satpura plateau in the southern central part of the Madhya Pradesh. During a survey which carried out from 1997 to 2004, the lead author (Dr Acharya) explored the area of Patalkot valley and collected information on the herbs available.
The Secret of HerbsPlants have been source of medicine since ancient time. Thousands of books and articles have been written so far. Several thousands medicinal plants are discussed and used to cure various health disorders in India and abroad also. In India, almost 45,000 plant species grow naturally or are being cultivated. There are many popular Indian herbs used in traditional practices to cure diabetes. Gymnema sylvestre has having an important place in such antidiabetic medicinal herbs.
During the early 1990's, this herb was found in abundance in Patalkot valley. It's a climber but it could not survive well after the deforestation and cutting down of the larger trees. Now-a-days, this herb has becoming rare in this valley.
Plant Profile
Synonyms:Periploca sylvestris Willd., Gymnema melicida Edgew.
Family:Asclepiadaceae
English Name:Suger destroyer, Periploca of the woods.
Sanskrit Names:Ajaballi, Ajagandini, Ajashringi, Bahalchakshu, Chakshurabahala, Grihadruma, Karnika, Kshinavartta, Madhunasini, Medhasingi, Meshashringi, Meshavishanika, Netaushadhi, Putrashringi, Sarpadanshtrika, Tiktadughdha, Vishani.
Local Names in India
Hindi - Gur-mar, merasingi;
Bengali - Mera-singi;
Marathi - Kavali, kalikardori, vakundi;
Gujarati - Dhuleti, mardashingi;
Telugu - Podapatri;
Tamil - Adigam, cherukurinja;
Kannada - Sannager-asehambu;
Malyalam - Cakkarakkolli, Madhunashini.
HabitatGrows wild in forest as a climber, also found in the plains around the coast, in scrub jungles and in thickets.
Medicinal PropertyThe plant is stomachic, stimulant, laxative and diuretic. It is good for cough, biliousness and sore eyes. If the leaves of the plant are chewed, the sense of taste for sweet and bitter substances is suppressed. The leaves are said to be used as a remedy for diabetes. It has been included among the most important herbs for all doshas (Mhasker & Caius, 1930; Holistic, 2004). It has shown effective activity against Bacillus pumilis, B. subtilis, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus (Satdive et al., 2003). Tribals in Chhindi rub the leaves on infected body parts to cure infections.
The leaf powder is tasteless with a faint pleasant aromatic odour. It stimulates the heart and the circulatory system, increases the secretion of urine, and activates the uterus. Tribals of Central India prepare decoctions of Methi (fenugreek - Trigonella foenum-graecum), Gudmar (Gymnema sylvestre), Arjuna (Terminalia arjuna), Ajwan (Trachyspermum ammi), gokshura (Tribulus terrestris), vayu-vidanga (Embelia ribes), Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia), Harra (Terminalia chebula), and chitrak (Plumbago zeylanica) to cure diabetes and stress related disorders.
Traditional healers from various states of India use this plant in various ailments. Leaf is given in gastric troubles in Rajasthan. Traditional healers of Maharastra prescribe it for urinary problems and stomachache whereas in Madhya Pradesh, tribals and local healers apply the leaf extract for cornea opacity and other eye diseases. In Andhra Pradesh it is used in glycosuria.
Gymnema in tkeVedasAccording to Charak Samhita, it removes bad odour from breast milk. This plant is useful as purgative, in eye trouble. Leaf extract and flower is beneficial for the eyes. The bark is administered in diseases caused by vitiated kapha (phlegm). According the Bagbhat, rootbark is useful in piles.
In Ayurveda it is reported to be acrid, alexipharmic, anodyne, anthelmintic, antipyretic, astringent, bitter, cardiotonic, digestive, diuretic, emetic, expectorant, laxative, stimulant, stomachic, uterine tonic; useful in amennorrhoea, asthma, bronchitis, cardiopathy, conjunctivitis, constipation, cough, dyspepsia, haemorroids, hepatosplenomegaly, inflammations, intermittant fever, jaundice and leucoderma. The root is said to have emetic properties and removes phlegm; external applications are useful in insect bites.
Acharya D, Shrivastava A and Pawar S: Gymnema sylvestre: Boosts your insulin - Traditional medicines of Gonds and Bharias http://www.disabled-world.com/ 26 Jun 2005, 18:24
This article is for information only and readers are advised not to self medicate without first consulting their physician.
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Tuesday, December 9, 2008
Traditions in Practice
Gymnema sylvestre: Boosts your insulinChhindwara district in Madhya Pradesh comprises mostly dense forests. The tribal region of Patalkot is located at a depth of 1200-1500 feet in a valley near Tamia in the north of the district. Because of the great depth at which it is located, this place is christened as 'Patalkot' (Patal means very deep, in Sanskrit). Patalkot is spread over an area of 79 sq.km. at an average height of 2750-3250 feet above mean sea level.
There are 12 villages and 13 hamlets in this valley, with a total population of nearly 2000. Because of the inaccessibility of this area, the tribals of this region were totally cut off from the civilized world. Most of the people in Patalkot belong to 'Bharia' and 'Gond' tribes. This valley is situated on the Satpura plateau in the southern central part of the Madhya Pradesh. During a survey which carried out from 1997 to 2004, the lead author (Dr Acharya) explored the area of Patalkot valley and collected information on the herbs available.
The Secret of HerbsPlants have been source of medicine since ancient time. Thousands of books and articles have been written so far. Several thousands medicinal plants are discussed and used to cure various health disorders in India and abroad also. In India, almost 45,000 plant species grow naturally or are being cultivated. There are many popular Indian herbs used in traditional practices to cure diabetes. Gymnema sylvestre has having an important place in such antidiabetic medicinal herbs.
During the early 1990's, this herb was found in abundance in Patalkot valley. It's a climber but it could not survive well after the deforestation and cutting down of the larger trees. Now-a-days, this herb has becoming rare in this valley.
Plant Profile
Synonyms:Periploca sylvestris Willd., Gymnema melicida Edgew.
Family:Asclepiadaceae
English Name:Suger destroyer, Periploca of the woods.
Sanskrit Names:Ajaballi, Ajagandini, Ajashringi, Bahalchakshu, Chakshurabahala, Grihadruma, Karnika, Kshinavartta, Madhunasini, Medhasingi, Meshashringi, Meshavishanika, Netaushadhi, Putrashringi, Sarpadanshtrika, Tiktadughdha, Vishani.
Local Names in India
Hindi - Gur-mar, merasingi;
Bengali - Mera-singi;
Marathi - Kavali, kalikardori, vakundi;
Gujarati - Dhuleti, mardashingi;
Telugu - Podapatri;
Tamil - Adigam, cherukurinja;
Kannada - Sannager-asehambu;
Malyalam - Cakkarakkolli, Madhunashini.
HabitatGrows wild in forest as a climber, also found in the plains around the coast, in scrub jungles and in thickets.
Medicinal PropertyThe plant is stomachic, stimulant, laxative and diuretic. It is good for cough, biliousness and sore eyes. If the leaves of the plant are chewed, the sense of taste for sweet and bitter substances is suppressed. The leaves are said to be used as a remedy for diabetes. It has been included among the most important herbs for all doshas (Mhasker & Caius, 1930; Holistic, 2004). It has shown effective activity against Bacillus pumilis, B. subtilis, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus (Satdive et al., 2003). Tribals in Chhindi rub the leaves on infected body parts to cure infections.
The leaf powder is tasteless with a faint pleasant aromatic odour. It stimulates the heart and the circulatory system, increases the secretion of urine, and activates the uterus. Tribals of Central India prepare decoctions of Methi (fenugreek - Trigonella foenum-graecum), Gudmar (Gymnema sylvestre), Arjuna (Terminalia arjuna), Ajwan (Trachyspermum ammi), gokshura (Tribulus terrestris), vayu-vidanga (Embelia ribes), Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia), Harra (Terminalia chebula), and chitrak (Plumbago zeylanica) to cure diabetes and stress related disorders.
Traditional healers from various states of India use this plant in various ailments. Leaf is given in gastric troubles in Rajasthan. Traditional healers of Maharastra prescribe it for urinary problems and stomachache whereas in Madhya Pradesh, tribals and local healers apply the leaf extract for cornea opacity and other eye diseases. In Andhra Pradesh it is used in glycosuria.
Gymnema in tkeVedasAccording to Charak Samhita, it removes bad odour from breast milk. This plant is useful as purgative, in eye trouble. Leaf extract and flower is beneficial for the eyes. The bark is administered in diseases caused by vitiated kapha (phlegm). According the Bagbhat, rootbark is useful in piles.
In Ayurveda it is reported to be acrid, alexipharmic, anodyne, anthelmintic, antipyretic, astringent, bitter, cardiotonic, digestive, diuretic, emetic, expectorant, laxative, stimulant, stomachic, uterine tonic; useful in amennorrhoea, asthma, bronchitis, cardiopathy, conjunctivitis, constipation, cough, dyspepsia, haemorroids, hepatosplenomegaly, inflammations, intermittant fever, jaundice and leucoderma. The root is said to have emetic properties and removes phlegm; external applications are useful in insect bites.
Acharya D, Shrivastava A and Pawar S: Gymnema sylvestre: Boosts your insulin - Traditional medicines of Gonds and Bharias http://www.disabled-world.com/ 26 Jun 2005, 18:24
This article is for information only and readers are advised not to self medicate without first consulting their physician.
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There are 12 villages and 13 hamlets in this valley, with a total population of nearly 2000. Because of the inaccessibility of this area, the tribals of this region were totally cut off from the civilized world. Most of the people in Patalkot belong to 'Bharia' and 'Gond' tribes. This valley is situated on the Satpura plateau in the southern central part of the Madhya Pradesh. During a survey which carried out from 1997 to 2004, the lead author (Dr Acharya) explored the area of Patalkot valley and collected information on the herbs available.
The Secret of HerbsPlants have been source of medicine since ancient time. Thousands of books and articles have been written so far. Several thousands medicinal plants are discussed and used to cure various health disorders in India and abroad also. In India, almost 45,000 plant species grow naturally or are being cultivated. There are many popular Indian herbs used in traditional practices to cure diabetes. Gymnema sylvestre has having an important place in such antidiabetic medicinal herbs.
During the early 1990's, this herb was found in abundance in Patalkot valley. It's a climber but it could not survive well after the deforestation and cutting down of the larger trees. Now-a-days, this herb has becoming rare in this valley.
Plant Profile
Synonyms:Periploca sylvestris Willd., Gymnema melicida Edgew.
Family:Asclepiadaceae
English Name:Suger destroyer, Periploca of the woods.
Sanskrit Names:Ajaballi, Ajagandini, Ajashringi, Bahalchakshu, Chakshurabahala, Grihadruma, Karnika, Kshinavartta, Madhunasini, Medhasingi, Meshashringi, Meshavishanika, Netaushadhi, Putrashringi, Sarpadanshtrika, Tiktadughdha, Vishani.
Local Names in India
Hindi - Gur-mar, merasingi;
Bengali - Mera-singi;
Marathi - Kavali, kalikardori, vakundi;
Gujarati - Dhuleti, mardashingi;
Telugu - Podapatri;
Tamil - Adigam, cherukurinja;
Kannada - Sannager-asehambu;
Malyalam - Cakkarakkolli, Madhunashini.
HabitatGrows wild in forest as a climber, also found in the plains around the coast, in scrub jungles and in thickets.
Medicinal PropertyThe plant is stomachic, stimulant, laxative and diuretic. It is good for cough, biliousness and sore eyes. If the leaves of the plant are chewed, the sense of taste for sweet and bitter substances is suppressed. The leaves are said to be used as a remedy for diabetes. It has been included among the most important herbs for all doshas (Mhasker & Caius, 1930; Holistic, 2004). It has shown effective activity against Bacillus pumilis, B. subtilis, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus (Satdive et al., 2003). Tribals in Chhindi rub the leaves on infected body parts to cure infections.
The leaf powder is tasteless with a faint pleasant aromatic odour. It stimulates the heart and the circulatory system, increases the secretion of urine, and activates the uterus. Tribals of Central India prepare decoctions of Methi (fenugreek - Trigonella foenum-graecum), Gudmar (Gymnema sylvestre), Arjuna (Terminalia arjuna), Ajwan (Trachyspermum ammi), gokshura (Tribulus terrestris), vayu-vidanga (Embelia ribes), Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia), Harra (Terminalia chebula), and chitrak (Plumbago zeylanica) to cure diabetes and stress related disorders.
Traditional healers from various states of India use this plant in various ailments. Leaf is given in gastric troubles in Rajasthan. Traditional healers of Maharastra prescribe it for urinary problems and stomachache whereas in Madhya Pradesh, tribals and local healers apply the leaf extract for cornea opacity and other eye diseases. In Andhra Pradesh it is used in glycosuria.
Gymnema in tkeVedasAccording to Charak Samhita, it removes bad odour from breast milk. This plant is useful as purgative, in eye trouble. Leaf extract and flower is beneficial for the eyes. The bark is administered in diseases caused by vitiated kapha (phlegm). According the Bagbhat, rootbark is useful in piles.
In Ayurveda it is reported to be acrid, alexipharmic, anodyne, anthelmintic, antipyretic, astringent, bitter, cardiotonic, digestive, diuretic, emetic, expectorant, laxative, stimulant, stomachic, uterine tonic; useful in amennorrhoea, asthma, bronchitis, cardiopathy, conjunctivitis, constipation, cough, dyspepsia, haemorroids, hepatosplenomegaly, inflammations, intermittant fever, jaundice and leucoderma. The root is said to have emetic properties and removes phlegm; external applications are useful in insect bites.
Acharya D, Shrivastava A and Pawar S: Gymnema sylvestre: Boosts your insulin - Traditional medicines of Gonds and Bharias http://www.disabled-world.com/ 26 Jun 2005, 18:24
This article is for information only and readers are advised not to self medicate without first consulting their physician.
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The RCI Act
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The National Trust Act
National policy for persons with disabilities
Useful Information
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Diabetes a Real Troublemaker
By Garima Sancheti and Dr Deepak Acharya - 2006-04-05Find more articles like this in our Diabetes information category.
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Diabetes (Sugar disorder) is one of the most insidious disorders of the body metabolism.
Factors like improper diet, environmental stress, obesity, viral infection, malnutrition and heredity, each play a role in triggering the disease. Also, people who suffer from high blood pressure (hypertension) often have a tendency toward diabetes. If not properly diagnosed and treated at early stage, it can lead to serious health problems.
Diabetes takes 2 main forms- The first is Diabetes insipidus (Insipidus = Insipid, tasteless), characterized by choking thrust and large volumes of pale, dilute urine with no abnormal constituents. It occurs due to inadequate secretion of the pituitary hormone, anti-diuretic hormone (ADH) in the body. The more common of both is Diabetes mellitus (Mellitus = Honey), a constitutional disorder caused by the malfunctioning of the pancreas, a gland that produces insulin. Insulin is an "anaerobic hormone" that helps assimilate glucose in the human body. The chemical imbalance of insulin leads to:
Hyperglycemia (high blood glucose level) occurs when pancreas fail to produce adequate insulin, the hormone needed to convert glucose into energy.
Polyuria: hyperglycemia may exceed renal threshold and result in Polyuria (excessive urination).
Polydypsia: Polyuria results in water loss leading to dehydration of the body leading to polydypsia (excessive drinking).
Polyphagia: Lose of glucose via urine causes a demand of more fuel in the body. As a result, a diabetic gets a voracious appetite, i.e., Polyphagia (excessive eating).
Wasting: To meet the rising demands of the fuel in the body, endogenous proteins and fats are catabolized. As a result, a diabetic loses weight (i.e., wasting) despite of hearty meals.
Long term complication of diabetes can lead to degenerative changes in the blood vessels, Atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries); it may also result in Microangiopathy (thickening of the capillary walls).
Paralysis, tiredness, recurrent infections, problems with visions, peripheral neuritis, heart attacks and gangrene are complications that commonly diabetics face.
Skin eruptions may occur due to lack of absorption of sugar in the body.
There is intense itching in the groin; eczema may also appear.
Herbal formulation: Tribals in Madhya Pradesh use so many herbs to cure Shakkar Ki Bimari (Diabetes). Tribals perform various healing methods to cure several disorders. A common formulation for curing diabetes is mentioned below.
Combination of herbs viz., Annona squamosa, Gymnema sylvestre, Tinospora cordifolia, Azadirachta indica, Emblica officinalis, Curcuma longa, Trigonella foenum-graecum and Aegle marmelos
Drug preparation: Powder of Annona squamosa Leaves (1 tbsp), Gymnema sylvestre Leaves (3 tbsp), Tinospora cordifolia Stem (1 ½ tbsp), Azadirachta indica Leaves (1 tbsp), Emblica officinalis Fruit (2 tbsp), Curcuma longa Rhizome (1 tbsp), Trigonella foenum Seeds (1 ½ tbsp) and Aegle marmelos Fruit (1 ½ tbsp).
Plant Profiles:
1. Annona squamosa Linn. (Custard-Apple, Sugar-Apple, Sweetsop)
Bengali- Ata, Seetaphal; Gujarati & Marathi- Seetaaphal; Hindi- Seetaaphal, Sharifa; Kannada- Seethaphala; Malayalam- Attichakka, Seethaapazham; Oriya- Ato, Seethaapholo; Sanskrit- Gandhagataram, Seetaaphalam; Tamil- Atta, Seethappazham; Telugu- Gandhagaalaramu, Seetaaphalamu; Assamiya- Atakatal; Punjabi- Sharifa
A large, evergreen, straggling shrub or small tree, 7 m in height, introduced into India, found wild and cultivated in various parts, up to an altitude of 900 m. Bark thin, grey; leaves oblong-lanceolate or elliptic, pellucid-dotted, peculiarly scented, 5.0-15.0 cm x 1.9-3.8 cm; flowers 1-4, greenish, fleshy, drooping, extra-axillary, more on the leafy shoot than on the older wood, tending to open as the shoot elongates; carpels many, lozenge-shaped, on a central torus, fused into an irregularly globose or heart-shaped, tubercled, yellowish green syncarpium, 5-10 cm in diam; seeds oblong, deep brownish black, aril shining, covered with whitish pulp (WOA, 1997).
2. Gymnema sylvestre R.Br.
Sanskrit- Meshashringi, Madhu-nashini; Hindi- Gur-mar, Merasingi; Bengali- Mera-singi; Marathi- Kavali, Kalikardori, Vakundi; Gujarati- Dhuleti, Mardashingi; Telugu-Podapatri; Tamil- Adigam, Cherukurinja; Kannada- Sannager-asehambu.
A large, more or less pubescent, woody climber found in the Deccan Peninsula, extending to parts of northern and western India; it is occasionally cultivated as a medicinal plant. Leaves opposite, usually elliptic or ovate (1.25-2.0 in. X 0.5-1.25 in.); flowers small, yellow, in umbellate cymes; follicles terete, lanceolate, up to 3 inches in length (WOA, 1997).
3. Tinospora cordifolia (Willd.) Miers ex Hook. f. & Thoms. (Gulancha, Tinospora)
Sanskrit- Amrita, Guluchi, Jwarari; Hindi- Amrita, Giloe, Gulancha, Gulbel, Guloh, Gurcha, Jiwantika; Bengali- Golancha; Marathi & Gujarati- Gulvel; Telugu- Tippateege; Tamil- Amudem chindil; Kannada- Amrutoballi, Madhuparne, Uganiballi; Malayalam- Amrytu, Chittamritam; Oriya- Culochi
A large, glabrous, deciduous climbing shrub found throughout tropical India, ascending to an altitude of 300m. Stems rather succulent with long filiform fleshy aerial roots from the branches. Bark grey-brown or creamy white, warty; leaves membranous, cordate with a broad sinus; flowers small, yellow or greenish yellow, appearing when the plant is leafless, in axillary and terminal racemes or racemose panicles; male flowers clustered and females usually solitary; drupes ovoid, glossy, succulent, red, pea-sized; seeds curved (WOA, 1997).
4. Azadirachta indica A. Juss. syn. Melia azadirachta Linn. (Indian Lilac, Margosa Tree, Neem Tree)
Bengali- Nim; Gujarati- Limbado; Hindi- Nim, Nimb; Kannada- Bevinamara; Malayalam- Veppa; Marathi- Limba; Oriya- Nimba; Sanskrit- Arishta, Nimba; Tamil- Vembu, Veppam; Telugu- Veepachettu, Yapachettu; Urdu- Nim
A large, evergreen tree, 12-18 m in height and 1.8-2.4 m in girth, with a straight bole and long, spreading branches forming a broad crown, commonly found throughout the greater part of India, and often cultivated. Bark grey or dark grey, rough, reddish brown inside, with numerous oblique furrows and scattered tubercles; leaves imparipinnate, alternate, 20-38 cm long: leaflets 8-19, alternate or opposite, ovate-lanceolate, oblique or sub-falcate, falcate-lanceolate, glossy, bluntly serrate; flowers white or pale-yellow, small, scented, numerous, in long, slender, very lax, axillary panicles; drupes green, turning yellow on ripening, aromatic, oblong, or ovoid-oblong, smooth, 1.3-1.8 cm long, with a single exalbuminous seed (WOA, 1997).
5. Emblica officinalis Gaertn. syn. Phyllanthus emblica Linn. (Emblic Myrobalan, Indian Goosberry)
Sanskrit-Adiphala, Dhatri, Amalaka; Hindi- Amla, Amlika, Aonla; Bengali-Akla, Amlaki; Gujarati- Amali, Ambala; Telugu- Amalakamu, Usirikai; Tamil- Nelli; Kannada- Amalaka, Nelli; Malayalam- Nelli.
A small or medium-sized deciduous tree with smooth, greenish grey, exfoliating bark. Leaves feathery with small narrowly oblong, pinnately arranged leaflets. Fruits depressed globose, ½-1 inch in diam., fleshy and obscurely 6-lobed, containing 6 trigonous seeds. The tree is common in the mixed deciduous forests of India ascending to 4,500 ft. on the hills. It is often cultivated in gardens and homeyards. A type bearing comparatively larger fruits than the wild plant is known in cultivation (WOA, 1997).
6. Curcuma longa Linn. Syn C.domestica Valeton (Turmeric)
Sanskrit- Haridra; Hindi, Bengali, Marathi & Gujarati- Haldi, halada; Tamil- Manjal; Telugu- Pasupu; Kannada- Arishina
A perennial herb, 2-3 ft. high with a short stem and tuffted leaves; the rhizomes, which are short and thick, constitute the turmeric of commerce. Turmeric is used both as a colouring material and as a condiment. The characteristic yellow matter, distributed throughout the plant, is especially concentrated in the rhizomes (WOA, 1997).
7. Trigonella foenum-graecum Linn. (Fenugreek)
Sanskrit- Methika, Chandrika, Asumodhagam; Hindi- Methi, Muthi; Bengali- Methi, Methi-shak, Methuka, Hoemgreeb; Marathi- Methi; Gujarati- Methi, Methini, Bhaji; Telugu- Mentikoora (herb) Mentulu (seeds); Tamil- Vendayam; Kannada- Menthya, Mentesoppu, Menk-palle, Mente; Malayalam- Uluva, Venthiam; Punjabi- Methi, Methini, Methri, Methra (seeds)
An aromatic annual, 30-60 cm. tall, found wild in Kashmir, Punjab and the upper Gangotic plains, and widely cultivated in many parts of lndia. Grown for fodder, leaves pinnate, 3-foliolate: leaflets 2.0-2.5 cm. long, oblanceolate-oblong, obscurely dentate; flowors white or yellowish white, 1 or 2, axillary; pods 3-15-cm. long, 10-20 seeded; seeds greenish brown, 2.5-5.0 x 2.0-3.5 mm. oblong with a deep groove across one corner giving the seeds a hooked appearance (WOA, 1997).
8. Aegle marmelos (Linn.) Correa ex Roxb. (Bael Tree, Bengal Quince)
Bengali, Hindi & Marathi- Bael, Bel; Gujarati- Bili; Kannada- Bela, Bilva; Malayalam- Koovalam, Vilvam; Oriya-Belo; Sanskrit- Bilva, Sriphal; Tamil- Bilva, Vilvam; Telugu- Bilavamu, Maredu; Urdu- Bel; Assam- Bael, Bel
A moderate-sized, slender, aromatic tree, 6.0-7.5 m in height and 90-120 cm in girth, with a somewhat fluted bole of 3.0-4.5 m, growing wild throughout the deciduous forests of India, ascending to an altitude of c 1,200 m in the western Himalayas and also occurring in Andaman Islands. It is extensively planted near Hindu temples for its leaves and wood which are valued in indigenous medicine. Branches armed with straight, sharp, axillary, 2.5 cm long spines; bark soft, corky, light grey, exfoliating in irregular flakes; leaves attenuate, trifoliolate, occasionally digitately five-foliolate, leaflets ovate or ovate-lanceolate, crenate, acuminate, lateral sessile, terminal long-petioled; flowers large, greenish white, sweet-scented, in short axillary panicles; fruits globose, grey or yellowish, rind woody; seeds numerous, oblong, compressed, embedded in sacs covered with thick orange-coloured sweet pulp (WOA, 1997).
The above herbal formulation is for information purposes. If someone wants to follow this formulation, it is recommended to have a communication with your family doctor first.
Your diet an important factor:
A person suffering from diabetes should follow a prudent diet to help keep their blood sugar levels under control. Diet recommended for diabetes is based on foods high in complex carbohydrates, rich in fibers and low in sugar and fat. A diabetic should eat meals regularly.
Eat more of starchy, fibrous foods such as beans, peas, whole meal bread, lentils, etc.
Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables as these are a natural source of fibers and vitamins. Fruits like rose apple and jamun are recommended for diabetics. Vegetables like bitter gourd’s (karela/ Momordica charantia) anti-diabetic properties have already been practiced in Ayurveda; some other vegetables recommended are drumstick and bimbi. The curry-leaf tree (Murraya koenigii) is one of the traditional Indian plants with reputed benefit in diabetes. We have already mentioned a formulation in this article.
Give up sugary substances such as soft drinks, chocolates, cakes and confectionaries, etc. Cut down on sugar in the form like rice, potatoes and sweet fruits such as.
Ensure that the patient limits salty foods and one is conscious of hidden salts in tinned, smoked and processed foods.
Dried fruits should be consumed in limited quantities.
Keep a check on weight. If a person is obese, he should follow a strict diet regime.
A yogic exercise matsyendrasana is particularly recommended for diabetics. Diabetics should be careful to avoid injuries as the wounds tend to heal in long time. Changes in diet and lifestyle, overcoming stress, mild exercise, medication, personal hygiene and periodic checkups can help a diabetic come back to normal action once again.
References:
WOA. 1997. Wealth of Asia (AHEAD).
Authors:
Miss Garima Sancheti - She is a Senior Research Scholar at Department of Life Sciences, Rajasthan University, Jaipur. She is currently working on herbs and their efficacy against cancer. Her email address is garimasancheti@rediffmail.com.
Dr Deepak Acharya - He is the Head of Pistiss Herbal Research Lab Pvt Ltd.
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Diabetes (Sugar disorder) is one of the most insidious disorders of the body metabolism.
Factors like improper diet, environmental stress, obesity, viral infection, malnutrition and heredity, each play a role in triggering the disease. Also, people who suffer from high blood pressure (hypertension) often have a tendency toward diabetes. If not properly diagnosed and treated at early stage, it can lead to serious health problems.
Diabetes takes 2 main forms- The first is Diabetes insipidus (Insipidus = Insipid, tasteless), characterized by choking thrust and large volumes of pale, dilute urine with no abnormal constituents. It occurs due to inadequate secretion of the pituitary hormone, anti-diuretic hormone (ADH) in the body. The more common of both is Diabetes mellitus (Mellitus = Honey), a constitutional disorder caused by the malfunctioning of the pancreas, a gland that produces insulin. Insulin is an "anaerobic hormone" that helps assimilate glucose in the human body. The chemical imbalance of insulin leads to:
Hyperglycemia (high blood glucose level) occurs when pancreas fail to produce adequate insulin, the hormone needed to convert glucose into energy.
Polyuria: hyperglycemia may exceed renal threshold and result in Polyuria (excessive urination).
Polydypsia: Polyuria results in water loss leading to dehydration of the body leading to polydypsia (excessive drinking).
Polyphagia: Lose of glucose via urine causes a demand of more fuel in the body. As a result, a diabetic gets a voracious appetite, i.e., Polyphagia (excessive eating).
Wasting: To meet the rising demands of the fuel in the body, endogenous proteins and fats are catabolized. As a result, a diabetic loses weight (i.e., wasting) despite of hearty meals.
Long term complication of diabetes can lead to degenerative changes in the blood vessels, Atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries); it may also result in Microangiopathy (thickening of the capillary walls).
Paralysis, tiredness, recurrent infections, problems with visions, peripheral neuritis, heart attacks and gangrene are complications that commonly diabetics face.
Skin eruptions may occur due to lack of absorption of sugar in the body.
There is intense itching in the groin; eczema may also appear.
Herbal formulation: Tribals in Madhya Pradesh use so many herbs to cure Shakkar Ki Bimari (Diabetes). Tribals perform various healing methods to cure several disorders. A common formulation for curing diabetes is mentioned below.
Combination of herbs viz., Annona squamosa, Gymnema sylvestre, Tinospora cordifolia, Azadirachta indica, Emblica officinalis, Curcuma longa, Trigonella foenum-graecum and Aegle marmelos
Drug preparation: Powder of Annona squamosa Leaves (1 tbsp), Gymnema sylvestre Leaves (3 tbsp), Tinospora cordifolia Stem (1 ½ tbsp), Azadirachta indica Leaves (1 tbsp), Emblica officinalis Fruit (2 tbsp), Curcuma longa Rhizome (1 tbsp), Trigonella foenum Seeds (1 ½ tbsp) and Aegle marmelos Fruit (1 ½ tbsp).
Plant Profiles:
1. Annona squamosa Linn. (Custard-Apple, Sugar-Apple, Sweetsop)
Bengali- Ata, Seetaphal; Gujarati & Marathi- Seetaaphal; Hindi- Seetaaphal, Sharifa; Kannada- Seethaphala; Malayalam- Attichakka, Seethaapazham; Oriya- Ato, Seethaapholo; Sanskrit- Gandhagataram, Seetaaphalam; Tamil- Atta, Seethappazham; Telugu- Gandhagaalaramu, Seetaaphalamu; Assamiya- Atakatal; Punjabi- Sharifa
A large, evergreen, straggling shrub or small tree, 7 m in height, introduced into India, found wild and cultivated in various parts, up to an altitude of 900 m. Bark thin, grey; leaves oblong-lanceolate or elliptic, pellucid-dotted, peculiarly scented, 5.0-15.0 cm x 1.9-3.8 cm; flowers 1-4, greenish, fleshy, drooping, extra-axillary, more on the leafy shoot than on the older wood, tending to open as the shoot elongates; carpels many, lozenge-shaped, on a central torus, fused into an irregularly globose or heart-shaped, tubercled, yellowish green syncarpium, 5-10 cm in diam; seeds oblong, deep brownish black, aril shining, covered with whitish pulp (WOA, 1997).
2. Gymnema sylvestre R.Br.
Sanskrit- Meshashringi, Madhu-nashini; Hindi- Gur-mar, Merasingi; Bengali- Mera-singi; Marathi- Kavali, Kalikardori, Vakundi; Gujarati- Dhuleti, Mardashingi; Telugu-Podapatri; Tamil- Adigam, Cherukurinja; Kannada- Sannager-asehambu.
A large, more or less pubescent, woody climber found in the Deccan Peninsula, extending to parts of northern and western India; it is occasionally cultivated as a medicinal plant. Leaves opposite, usually elliptic or ovate (1.25-2.0 in. X 0.5-1.25 in.); flowers small, yellow, in umbellate cymes; follicles terete, lanceolate, up to 3 inches in length (WOA, 1997).
3. Tinospora cordifolia (Willd.) Miers ex Hook. f. & Thoms. (Gulancha, Tinospora)
Sanskrit- Amrita, Guluchi, Jwarari; Hindi- Amrita, Giloe, Gulancha, Gulbel, Guloh, Gurcha, Jiwantika; Bengali- Golancha; Marathi & Gujarati- Gulvel; Telugu- Tippateege; Tamil- Amudem chindil; Kannada- Amrutoballi, Madhuparne, Uganiballi; Malayalam- Amrytu, Chittamritam; Oriya- Culochi
A large, glabrous, deciduous climbing shrub found throughout tropical India, ascending to an altitude of 300m. Stems rather succulent with long filiform fleshy aerial roots from the branches. Bark grey-brown or creamy white, warty; leaves membranous, cordate with a broad sinus; flowers small, yellow or greenish yellow, appearing when the plant is leafless, in axillary and terminal racemes or racemose panicles; male flowers clustered and females usually solitary; drupes ovoid, glossy, succulent, red, pea-sized; seeds curved (WOA, 1997).
4. Azadirachta indica A. Juss. syn. Melia azadirachta Linn. (Indian Lilac, Margosa Tree, Neem Tree)
Bengali- Nim; Gujarati- Limbado; Hindi- Nim, Nimb; Kannada- Bevinamara; Malayalam- Veppa; Marathi- Limba; Oriya- Nimba; Sanskrit- Arishta, Nimba; Tamil- Vembu, Veppam; Telugu- Veepachettu, Yapachettu; Urdu- Nim
A large, evergreen tree, 12-18 m in height and 1.8-2.4 m in girth, with a straight bole and long, spreading branches forming a broad crown, commonly found throughout the greater part of India, and often cultivated. Bark grey or dark grey, rough, reddish brown inside, with numerous oblique furrows and scattered tubercles; leaves imparipinnate, alternate, 20-38 cm long: leaflets 8-19, alternate or opposite, ovate-lanceolate, oblique or sub-falcate, falcate-lanceolate, glossy, bluntly serrate; flowers white or pale-yellow, small, scented, numerous, in long, slender, very lax, axillary panicles; drupes green, turning yellow on ripening, aromatic, oblong, or ovoid-oblong, smooth, 1.3-1.8 cm long, with a single exalbuminous seed (WOA, 1997).
5. Emblica officinalis Gaertn. syn. Phyllanthus emblica Linn. (Emblic Myrobalan, Indian Goosberry)
Sanskrit-Adiphala, Dhatri, Amalaka; Hindi- Amla, Amlika, Aonla; Bengali-Akla, Amlaki; Gujarati- Amali, Ambala; Telugu- Amalakamu, Usirikai; Tamil- Nelli; Kannada- Amalaka, Nelli; Malayalam- Nelli.
A small or medium-sized deciduous tree with smooth, greenish grey, exfoliating bark. Leaves feathery with small narrowly oblong, pinnately arranged leaflets. Fruits depressed globose, ½-1 inch in diam., fleshy and obscurely 6-lobed, containing 6 trigonous seeds. The tree is common in the mixed deciduous forests of India ascending to 4,500 ft. on the hills. It is often cultivated in gardens and homeyards. A type bearing comparatively larger fruits than the wild plant is known in cultivation (WOA, 1997).
6. Curcuma longa Linn. Syn C.domestica Valeton (Turmeric)
Sanskrit- Haridra; Hindi, Bengali, Marathi & Gujarati- Haldi, halada; Tamil- Manjal; Telugu- Pasupu; Kannada- Arishina
A perennial herb, 2-3 ft. high with a short stem and tuffted leaves; the rhizomes, which are short and thick, constitute the turmeric of commerce. Turmeric is used both as a colouring material and as a condiment. The characteristic yellow matter, distributed throughout the plant, is especially concentrated in the rhizomes (WOA, 1997).
7. Trigonella foenum-graecum Linn. (Fenugreek)
Sanskrit- Methika, Chandrika, Asumodhagam; Hindi- Methi, Muthi; Bengali- Methi, Methi-shak, Methuka, Hoemgreeb; Marathi- Methi; Gujarati- Methi, Methini, Bhaji; Telugu- Mentikoora (herb) Mentulu (seeds); Tamil- Vendayam; Kannada- Menthya, Mentesoppu, Menk-palle, Mente; Malayalam- Uluva, Venthiam; Punjabi- Methi, Methini, Methri, Methra (seeds)
An aromatic annual, 30-60 cm. tall, found wild in Kashmir, Punjab and the upper Gangotic plains, and widely cultivated in many parts of lndia. Grown for fodder, leaves pinnate, 3-foliolate: leaflets 2.0-2.5 cm. long, oblanceolate-oblong, obscurely dentate; flowors white or yellowish white, 1 or 2, axillary; pods 3-15-cm. long, 10-20 seeded; seeds greenish brown, 2.5-5.0 x 2.0-3.5 mm. oblong with a deep groove across one corner giving the seeds a hooked appearance (WOA, 1997).
8. Aegle marmelos (Linn.) Correa ex Roxb. (Bael Tree, Bengal Quince)
Bengali, Hindi & Marathi- Bael, Bel; Gujarati- Bili; Kannada- Bela, Bilva; Malayalam- Koovalam, Vilvam; Oriya-Belo; Sanskrit- Bilva, Sriphal; Tamil- Bilva, Vilvam; Telugu- Bilavamu, Maredu; Urdu- Bel; Assam- Bael, Bel
A moderate-sized, slender, aromatic tree, 6.0-7.5 m in height and 90-120 cm in girth, with a somewhat fluted bole of 3.0-4.5 m, growing wild throughout the deciduous forests of India, ascending to an altitude of c 1,200 m in the western Himalayas and also occurring in Andaman Islands. It is extensively planted near Hindu temples for its leaves and wood which are valued in indigenous medicine. Branches armed with straight, sharp, axillary, 2.5 cm long spines; bark soft, corky, light grey, exfoliating in irregular flakes; leaves attenuate, trifoliolate, occasionally digitately five-foliolate, leaflets ovate or ovate-lanceolate, crenate, acuminate, lateral sessile, terminal long-petioled; flowers large, greenish white, sweet-scented, in short axillary panicles; fruits globose, grey or yellowish, rind woody; seeds numerous, oblong, compressed, embedded in sacs covered with thick orange-coloured sweet pulp (WOA, 1997).
The above herbal formulation is for information purposes. If someone wants to follow this formulation, it is recommended to have a communication with your family doctor first.
Your diet an important factor:
A person suffering from diabetes should follow a prudent diet to help keep their blood sugar levels under control. Diet recommended for diabetes is based on foods high in complex carbohydrates, rich in fibers and low in sugar and fat. A diabetic should eat meals regularly.
Eat more of starchy, fibrous foods such as beans, peas, whole meal bread, lentils, etc.
Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables as these are a natural source of fibers and vitamins. Fruits like rose apple and jamun are recommended for diabetics. Vegetables like bitter gourd’s (karela/ Momordica charantia) anti-diabetic properties have already been practiced in Ayurveda; some other vegetables recommended are drumstick and bimbi. The curry-leaf tree (Murraya koenigii) is one of the traditional Indian plants with reputed benefit in diabetes. We have already mentioned a formulation in this article.
Give up sugary substances such as soft drinks, chocolates, cakes and confectionaries, etc. Cut down on sugar in the form like rice, potatoes and sweet fruits such as.
Ensure that the patient limits salty foods and one is conscious of hidden salts in tinned, smoked and processed foods.
Dried fruits should be consumed in limited quantities.
Keep a check on weight. If a person is obese, he should follow a strict diet regime.
A yogic exercise matsyendrasana is particularly recommended for diabetics. Diabetics should be careful to avoid injuries as the wounds tend to heal in long time. Changes in diet and lifestyle, overcoming stress, mild exercise, medication, personal hygiene and periodic checkups can help a diabetic come back to normal action once again.
References:
WOA. 1997. Wealth of Asia (AHEAD).
Authors:
Miss Garima Sancheti - She is a Senior Research Scholar at Department of Life Sciences, Rajasthan University, Jaipur. She is currently working on herbs and their efficacy against cancer. Her email address is garimasancheti@rediffmail.com.
Dr Deepak Acharya - He is the Head of Pistiss Herbal Research Lab Pvt Ltd.
Aloe Vera Plant History Uses and Benefits
By James Calvin - 2008-03-17Find more articles like this in our Traditional herbs category.
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What is Aloe Vera?
Aloe Vera is a species of Aloe, native to northern Africa. It is a stemless or very short-stemmed succulent plant growing to 80–100 cm tall, spreading by offsets and root sprouts. The leaves are lanceolate, thick and fleshy, green to grey-green, with a serrated margin. The flowers are produced on a spike up to 90 cm tall, each flower pendulous, with a yellow tubular corolla 2 to 3 cm long.
Aloe Vera has long been a popular houseplant. Often called the 'miracle plant' or the 'natural healer', Aloe Vera is a plant of many surprises. It flourishes in warm and dry climates, and to many people it looks like a cactus with fleshy thorny leaves. In fact it is a member of the Lily family, staying moist where other plants wither and die by closing its pores to prevent moisture loss.
There are around 400 species of Aloe, but it is the Aloe Barbadensis Miller (Aloe Vera or "true aloe") plant which has been of most use to mankind because of the medicinal properties it displays.
The Aloe Vera Plant
Although there are many Aloe's the term Aloe Vera (“true Aloe”) refers to the Aloe Barbadensis Miller. Fully grown the plant stands 60 to 90 cm high, and a mature leaf is 7 to 10 cm across at the base, weighing 1.5 to 2 kg.
The lower leaf of the plant is used for medicinal purpose. If the lower leaf is sliced open, the gel obtained can be applied on the affected area of the skin. Leaves and seeds are the two edible parts of Aloe Vera.
The Aloe leaf structure is made up of four layers:
Rind - the outer protective layer;
Sap - a layer of bitter fluid which helps protect the plant from animals;
Mucilage Gel - the inner part of the leaf that is filleted out to make Aloe Vera gel.
Aloe Vera (inner gel) contains the 8 essential Amino Acids that the human body needs but cannot manufacture.
Aloe Vera has a bitter taste which can be unpleasant in the raw state. It is possible to get used to the taste of plain Aloe Vera gel, but if you can't the addition of some fruit juice helps to make it more palatable.
There is much confusion between Aloe Vera Gel and Aloe Vera Juice with the two often being thought synonymous. The term Gel refers to the inner leaf only, whereas Juice refers to “Aloe Latex” a bitter substance found just under the skin of the leaf.
Leading authorities on Aloe Vera maintain that only Aloe Vera gel as fresh as preservation allows from the inner leaf has any remarkable properties.
Aloe Vera used Throughout History
Aloe Vera has been found described in writings in many different cultures and as far back as the Greek, Egyptians, and Roman eras. References have also been found in writings from the Indian and Chinese early cultures. Ancient records show that the benefits of Aloe Vera have been known for centuries, with its therapeutic advantages and healing properties surviving for over 4000 years. The earliest record of Aloe Vera is on a Sumerian tablet dating from 2100 BC.
Its antiquity was first discovered in 1862 in an Egyptian papyrus dated 1550 BC. Egyptian Queens associated its use with their physical beauty.
It was used to great effect by Greek and Roman physicians. Researchers have found that both the ancient Chinese and Indian used Aloe Vera.
In the Phillipines it is used with milk for kidney infections.
Aloes are referred to in the Bible, and legend suggests that Alexander the Great conquered the island of Socotra in the Indian Ocean to secure supplies of Aloes to treat the battle wounds of his soldiers.
Today in Japan Aloe Vera is commonly used as an ingredient in commercially available yogurt. There are also many companies which produce Aloe Vera beverages.
People in Tamil Nadu, a state of India, often prepare a curry using Aloe Vera which is taken along with Indian bread (nan bread) or rice.
Uses and Home Remedies using Aloe Vera
Aloe gel has been used for topical treatment for minor wounds and burns and skin irritations for centuries. Aloe Vera used to be known as the ‘burn plant’. It is no longer necessary to keep an Aloe Vera plant handy for when you catch your hand on the oven door, these days Aloe Vera Gel comes in handy tubes.
A two year trial is underway at the Neath, Morriston and Singleton hospitals in Swansea for use of Aloe Vera in treating Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). A clinical trial involving 44 patients suffering from Ulcerative Colitis has been completed at the Royal London Hospital and the John Radcliffe Hospital in Oxford. The trial was completed in January 2004 and an improvement found in 38% of Patients given Aloe Vera gel as opposed to 8% given a placebo.
One of the home remedies for asthma was to boil some Aloe Vera leaves in a pan of water and breathe in the vapor.
Others have reported benefits of Aloe Vera in treating Eczema and Psoriarsis, and a product called Aloe Propolis Crème is favoured by many for these conditions.
For pharmaceutical use as a laxative, the aloe juice is taken from the tubules just beneath the outer skin of the leaves. It's a bitter yellow and dried to become aloe granules that are dark brown in color.
Made into a beverage and taken internally, it has been used to help many other conditions. Some of them are constipation, ulcers, diabetes, headaches, arthritis, and coughs. Taking aloe internally does have side effects, which can include pain, electrolyte imbalances, and diarrhea.
It has been determined that it can also help with treating minor vaginal irritations.
Aloe Vera is best used when used fresh from the plant. It doesn't store well but can be bought as a preserved product. Aloe Vera can be used topically as well as taken internally. It has been used for mouth sores, what we call stomach sores, or cold sores.
Aloe Vera has been especially helpful of patients with severe and various skin diseases. It acts as a rejuvenating action. It acts as a moisturizer and hydrates the skin. After being absorbed into the skin, it stimulates the fibroblasts cells and causes them to regenerate themselves faster. It's the cells that that produce the collagen and elastin so the skin will get smoother and look younger.
Because Aloe Vera is natural, it works gently within the intestinal tract to help break down food residues that have become impacted and help clean out the bowel. When the bowel is cleaned out, it greatly reduces bloating, discomfort, and helps ease stress, which only leads to more attacks of irritable bowel syndrome.
How to Grow Aloe Vera Plants at Home
Established Aloe vera plants are available at almost any garden supplies shop or plant nursery.
Aloe plants are not very frost tolerant. If they are grown outdoors in warmer climates they should be planted in full sunlight, or partial shade. Apply a balanced liquid feed during the growing season.
For growing Aloe Vera indoors its best to place it near a window that gets a lot of sun. During summer you can move the pot(s) outside.
Watering should be kept to a minimum during the winter months but during summer the plant will require a lot of water.
If planting from scratch or re-potting your Aloe plant the potting soil should be moderately fertile and fast draining with a couple of inches
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What is Aloe Vera?
Aloe Vera is a species of Aloe, native to northern Africa. It is a stemless or very short-stemmed succulent plant growing to 80–100 cm tall, spreading by offsets and root sprouts. The leaves are lanceolate, thick and fleshy, green to grey-green, with a serrated margin. The flowers are produced on a spike up to 90 cm tall, each flower pendulous, with a yellow tubular corolla 2 to 3 cm long.
Aloe Vera has long been a popular houseplant. Often called the 'miracle plant' or the 'natural healer', Aloe Vera is a plant of many surprises. It flourishes in warm and dry climates, and to many people it looks like a cactus with fleshy thorny leaves. In fact it is a member of the Lily family, staying moist where other plants wither and die by closing its pores to prevent moisture loss.
There are around 400 species of Aloe, but it is the Aloe Barbadensis Miller (Aloe Vera or "true aloe") plant which has been of most use to mankind because of the medicinal properties it displays.
The Aloe Vera Plant
Although there are many Aloe's the term Aloe Vera (“true Aloe”) refers to the Aloe Barbadensis Miller. Fully grown the plant stands 60 to 90 cm high, and a mature leaf is 7 to 10 cm across at the base, weighing 1.5 to 2 kg.
The lower leaf of the plant is used for medicinal purpose. If the lower leaf is sliced open, the gel obtained can be applied on the affected area of the skin. Leaves and seeds are the two edible parts of Aloe Vera.
The Aloe leaf structure is made up of four layers:
Rind - the outer protective layer;
Sap - a layer of bitter fluid which helps protect the plant from animals;
Mucilage Gel - the inner part of the leaf that is filleted out to make Aloe Vera gel.
Aloe Vera (inner gel) contains the 8 essential Amino Acids that the human body needs but cannot manufacture.
Aloe Vera has a bitter taste which can be unpleasant in the raw state. It is possible to get used to the taste of plain Aloe Vera gel, but if you can't the addition of some fruit juice helps to make it more palatable.
There is much confusion between Aloe Vera Gel and Aloe Vera Juice with the two often being thought synonymous. The term Gel refers to the inner leaf only, whereas Juice refers to “Aloe Latex” a bitter substance found just under the skin of the leaf.
Leading authorities on Aloe Vera maintain that only Aloe Vera gel as fresh as preservation allows from the inner leaf has any remarkable properties.
Aloe Vera used Throughout History
Aloe Vera has been found described in writings in many different cultures and as far back as the Greek, Egyptians, and Roman eras. References have also been found in writings from the Indian and Chinese early cultures. Ancient records show that the benefits of Aloe Vera have been known for centuries, with its therapeutic advantages and healing properties surviving for over 4000 years. The earliest record of Aloe Vera is on a Sumerian tablet dating from 2100 BC.
Its antiquity was first discovered in 1862 in an Egyptian papyrus dated 1550 BC. Egyptian Queens associated its use with their physical beauty.
It was used to great effect by Greek and Roman physicians. Researchers have found that both the ancient Chinese and Indian used Aloe Vera.
In the Phillipines it is used with milk for kidney infections.
Aloes are referred to in the Bible, and legend suggests that Alexander the Great conquered the island of Socotra in the Indian Ocean to secure supplies of Aloes to treat the battle wounds of his soldiers.
Today in Japan Aloe Vera is commonly used as an ingredient in commercially available yogurt. There are also many companies which produce Aloe Vera beverages.
People in Tamil Nadu, a state of India, often prepare a curry using Aloe Vera which is taken along with Indian bread (nan bread) or rice.
Uses and Home Remedies using Aloe Vera
Aloe gel has been used for topical treatment for minor wounds and burns and skin irritations for centuries. Aloe Vera used to be known as the ‘burn plant’. It is no longer necessary to keep an Aloe Vera plant handy for when you catch your hand on the oven door, these days Aloe Vera Gel comes in handy tubes.
A two year trial is underway at the Neath, Morriston and Singleton hospitals in Swansea for use of Aloe Vera in treating Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). A clinical trial involving 44 patients suffering from Ulcerative Colitis has been completed at the Royal London Hospital and the John Radcliffe Hospital in Oxford. The trial was completed in January 2004 and an improvement found in 38% of Patients given Aloe Vera gel as opposed to 8% given a placebo.
One of the home remedies for asthma was to boil some Aloe Vera leaves in a pan of water and breathe in the vapor.
Others have reported benefits of Aloe Vera in treating Eczema and Psoriarsis, and a product called Aloe Propolis Crème is favoured by many for these conditions.
For pharmaceutical use as a laxative, the aloe juice is taken from the tubules just beneath the outer skin of the leaves. It's a bitter yellow and dried to become aloe granules that are dark brown in color.
Made into a beverage and taken internally, it has been used to help many other conditions. Some of them are constipation, ulcers, diabetes, headaches, arthritis, and coughs. Taking aloe internally does have side effects, which can include pain, electrolyte imbalances, and diarrhea.
It has been determined that it can also help with treating minor vaginal irritations.
Aloe Vera is best used when used fresh from the plant. It doesn't store well but can be bought as a preserved product. Aloe Vera can be used topically as well as taken internally. It has been used for mouth sores, what we call stomach sores, or cold sores.
Aloe Vera has been especially helpful of patients with severe and various skin diseases. It acts as a rejuvenating action. It acts as a moisturizer and hydrates the skin. After being absorbed into the skin, it stimulates the fibroblasts cells and causes them to regenerate themselves faster. It's the cells that that produce the collagen and elastin so the skin will get smoother and look younger.
Because Aloe Vera is natural, it works gently within the intestinal tract to help break down food residues that have become impacted and help clean out the bowel. When the bowel is cleaned out, it greatly reduces bloating, discomfort, and helps ease stress, which only leads to more attacks of irritable bowel syndrome.
How to Grow Aloe Vera Plants at Home
Established Aloe vera plants are available at almost any garden supplies shop or plant nursery.
Aloe plants are not very frost tolerant. If they are grown outdoors in warmer climates they should be planted in full sunlight, or partial shade. Apply a balanced liquid feed during the growing season.
For growing Aloe Vera indoors its best to place it near a window that gets a lot of sun. During summer you can move the pot(s) outside.
Watering should be kept to a minimum during the winter months but during summer the plant will require a lot of water.
If planting from scratch or re-potting your Aloe plant the potting soil should be moderately fertile and fast draining with a couple of inches
Aloe Vera Plant History Uses and Benefits
By James Calvin - 2008-03-17Find more articles like this in our Traditional herbs category.
window.google_render_ad();
What is Aloe Vera?
Aloe Vera is a species of Aloe, native to northern Africa. It is a stemless or very short-stemmed succulent plant growing to 80–100 cm tall, spreading by offsets and root sprouts. The leaves are lanceolate, thick and fleshy, green to grey-green, with a serrated margin. The flowers are produced on a spike up to 90 cm tall, each flower pendulous, with a yellow tubular corolla 2 to 3 cm long.
Aloe Vera has long been a popular houseplant. Often called the 'miracle plant' or the 'natural healer', Aloe Vera is a plant of many surprises. It flourishes in warm and dry climates, and to many people it looks like a cactus with fleshy thorny leaves. In fact it is a member of the Lily family, staying moist where other plants wither and die by closing its pores to prevent moisture loss.
There are around 400 species of Aloe, but it is the Aloe Barbadensis Miller (Aloe Vera or "true aloe") plant which has been of most use to mankind because of the medicinal properties it displays.
The Aloe Vera Plant
Although there are many Aloe's the term Aloe Vera (“true Aloe”) refers to the Aloe Barbadensis Miller. Fully grown the plant stands 60 to 90 cm high, and a mature leaf is 7 to 10 cm across at the base, weighing 1.5 to 2 kg.
The lower leaf of the plant is used for medicinal purpose. If the lower leaf is sliced open, the gel obtained can be applied on the affected area of the skin. Leaves and seeds are the two edible parts of Aloe Vera.
The Aloe leaf structure is made up of four layers:
Rind - the outer protective layer;
Sap - a layer of bitter fluid which helps protect the plant from animals;
Mucilage Gel - the inner part of the leaf that is filleted out to make Aloe Vera gel.
Aloe Vera (inner gel) contains the 8 essential Amino Acids that the human body needs but cannot manufacture.
Aloe Vera has a bitter taste which can be unpleasant in the raw state. It is possible to get used to the taste of plain Aloe Vera gel, but if you can't the addition of some fruit juice helps to make it more palatable.
There is much confusion between Aloe Vera Gel and Aloe Vera Juice with the two often being thought synonymous. The term Gel refers to the inner leaf only, whereas Juice refers to “Aloe Latex” a bitter substance found just under the skin of the leaf.
Leading authorities on Aloe Vera maintain that only Aloe Vera gel as fresh as preservation allows from the inner leaf has any remarkable properties.
Aloe Vera used Throughout History
Aloe Vera has been found described in writings in many different cultures and as far back as the Greek, Egyptians, and Roman eras. References have also been found in writings from the Indian and Chinese early cultures. Ancient records show that the benefits of Aloe Vera have been known for centuries, with its therapeutic advantages and healing properties surviving for over 4000 years. The earliest record of Aloe Vera is on a Sumerian tablet dating from 2100 BC.
Its antiquity was first discovered in 1862 in an Egyptian papyrus dated 1550 BC. Egyptian Queens associated its use with their physical beauty.
It was used to great effect by Greek and Roman physicians. Researchers have found that both the ancient Chinese and Indian used Aloe Vera.
In the Phillipines it is used with milk for kidney infections.
Aloes are referred to in the Bible, and legend suggests that Alexander the Great conquered the island of Socotra in the Indian Ocean to secure supplies of Aloes to treat the battle wounds of his soldiers.
Today in Japan Aloe Vera is commonly used as an ingredient in commercially available yogurt. There are also many companies which produce Aloe Vera beverages.
People in Tamil Nadu, a state of India, often prepare a curry using Aloe Vera which is taken along with Indian bread (nan bread) or rice.
Uses and Home Remedies using Aloe Vera
Aloe gel has been used for topical treatment for minor wounds and burns and skin irritations for centuries. Aloe Vera used to be known as the ‘burn plant’. It is no longer necessary to keep an Aloe Vera plant handy for when you catch your hand on the oven door, these days Aloe Vera Gel comes in handy tubes.
A two year trial is underway at the Neath, Morriston and Singleton hospitals in Swansea for use of Aloe Vera in treating Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). A clinical trial involving 44 patients suffering from Ulcerative Colitis has been completed at the Royal London Hospital and the John Radcliffe Hospital in Oxford. The trial was completed in January 2004 and an improvement found in 38% of Patients given Aloe Vera gel as opposed to 8% given a placebo.
One of the home remedies for asthma was to boil some Aloe Vera leaves in a pan of water and breathe in the vapor.
Others have reported benefits of Aloe Vera in treating Eczema and Psoriarsis, and a product called Aloe Propolis Crème is favoured by many for these conditions.
For pharmaceutical use as a laxative, the aloe juice is taken from the tubules just beneath the outer skin of the leaves. It's a bitter yellow and dried to become aloe granules that are dark brown in color.
Made into a beverage and taken internally, it has been used to help many other conditions. Some of them are constipation, ulcers, diabetes, headaches, arthritis, and coughs. Taking aloe internally does have side effects, which can include pain, electrolyte imbalances, and diarrhea.
It has been determined that it can also help with treating minor vaginal irritations.
Aloe Vera is best used when used fresh from the plant. It doesn't store well but can be bought as a preserved product. Aloe Vera can be used topically as well as taken internally. It has been used for mouth sores, what we call stomach sores, or cold sores.
Aloe Vera has been especially helpful of patients with severe and various skin diseases. It acts as a rejuvenating action. It acts as a moisturizer and hydrates the skin. After being absorbed into the skin, it stimulates the fibroblasts cells and causes them to regenerate themselves faster. It's the cells that that produce the collagen and elastin so the skin will get smoother and look younger.
Because Aloe Vera is natural, it works gently within the intestinal tract to help break down food residues that have become impacted and help clean out the bowel. When the bowel is cleaned out, it greatly reduces bloating, discomfort, and helps ease stress, which only leads to more attacks of irritable bowel syndrome.
How to Grow Aloe Vera Plants at Home
Established Aloe vera plants are available at almost any garden supplies shop or plant nursery.
Aloe plants are not very frost tolerant. If they are grown outdoors in warmer climates they should be planted in full sunlight, or partial shade. Apply a balanced liquid feed during the growing season.
For growing Aloe Vera indoors its best to place it near a window that gets a lot of sun. During summer you can move the pot(s) outside.
Watering should be kept to a minimum during the winter months but during summer the plant will require a lot of water.
If planting from scratch or re-potting your Aloe plant the potting soil should be moderately fertile and fast draining with a couple of inches
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What is Aloe Vera?
Aloe Vera is a species of Aloe, native to northern Africa. It is a stemless or very short-stemmed succulent plant growing to 80–100 cm tall, spreading by offsets and root sprouts. The leaves are lanceolate, thick and fleshy, green to grey-green, with a serrated margin. The flowers are produced on a spike up to 90 cm tall, each flower pendulous, with a yellow tubular corolla 2 to 3 cm long.
Aloe Vera has long been a popular houseplant. Often called the 'miracle plant' or the 'natural healer', Aloe Vera is a plant of many surprises. It flourishes in warm and dry climates, and to many people it looks like a cactus with fleshy thorny leaves. In fact it is a member of the Lily family, staying moist where other plants wither and die by closing its pores to prevent moisture loss.
There are around 400 species of Aloe, but it is the Aloe Barbadensis Miller (Aloe Vera or "true aloe") plant which has been of most use to mankind because of the medicinal properties it displays.
The Aloe Vera Plant
Although there are many Aloe's the term Aloe Vera (“true Aloe”) refers to the Aloe Barbadensis Miller. Fully grown the plant stands 60 to 90 cm high, and a mature leaf is 7 to 10 cm across at the base, weighing 1.5 to 2 kg.
The lower leaf of the plant is used for medicinal purpose. If the lower leaf is sliced open, the gel obtained can be applied on the affected area of the skin. Leaves and seeds are the two edible parts of Aloe Vera.
The Aloe leaf structure is made up of four layers:
Rind - the outer protective layer;
Sap - a layer of bitter fluid which helps protect the plant from animals;
Mucilage Gel - the inner part of the leaf that is filleted out to make Aloe Vera gel.
Aloe Vera (inner gel) contains the 8 essential Amino Acids that the human body needs but cannot manufacture.
Aloe Vera has a bitter taste which can be unpleasant in the raw state. It is possible to get used to the taste of plain Aloe Vera gel, but if you can't the addition of some fruit juice helps to make it more palatable.
There is much confusion between Aloe Vera Gel and Aloe Vera Juice with the two often being thought synonymous. The term Gel refers to the inner leaf only, whereas Juice refers to “Aloe Latex” a bitter substance found just under the skin of the leaf.
Leading authorities on Aloe Vera maintain that only Aloe Vera gel as fresh as preservation allows from the inner leaf has any remarkable properties.
Aloe Vera used Throughout History
Aloe Vera has been found described in writings in many different cultures and as far back as the Greek, Egyptians, and Roman eras. References have also been found in writings from the Indian and Chinese early cultures. Ancient records show that the benefits of Aloe Vera have been known for centuries, with its therapeutic advantages and healing properties surviving for over 4000 years. The earliest record of Aloe Vera is on a Sumerian tablet dating from 2100 BC.
Its antiquity was first discovered in 1862 in an Egyptian papyrus dated 1550 BC. Egyptian Queens associated its use with their physical beauty.
It was used to great effect by Greek and Roman physicians. Researchers have found that both the ancient Chinese and Indian used Aloe Vera.
In the Phillipines it is used with milk for kidney infections.
Aloes are referred to in the Bible, and legend suggests that Alexander the Great conquered the island of Socotra in the Indian Ocean to secure supplies of Aloes to treat the battle wounds of his soldiers.
Today in Japan Aloe Vera is commonly used as an ingredient in commercially available yogurt. There are also many companies which produce Aloe Vera beverages.
People in Tamil Nadu, a state of India, often prepare a curry using Aloe Vera which is taken along with Indian bread (nan bread) or rice.
Uses and Home Remedies using Aloe Vera
Aloe gel has been used for topical treatment for minor wounds and burns and skin irritations for centuries. Aloe Vera used to be known as the ‘burn plant’. It is no longer necessary to keep an Aloe Vera plant handy for when you catch your hand on the oven door, these days Aloe Vera Gel comes in handy tubes.
A two year trial is underway at the Neath, Morriston and Singleton hospitals in Swansea for use of Aloe Vera in treating Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). A clinical trial involving 44 patients suffering from Ulcerative Colitis has been completed at the Royal London Hospital and the John Radcliffe Hospital in Oxford. The trial was completed in January 2004 and an improvement found in 38% of Patients given Aloe Vera gel as opposed to 8% given a placebo.
One of the home remedies for asthma was to boil some Aloe Vera leaves in a pan of water and breathe in the vapor.
Others have reported benefits of Aloe Vera in treating Eczema and Psoriarsis, and a product called Aloe Propolis Crème is favoured by many for these conditions.
For pharmaceutical use as a laxative, the aloe juice is taken from the tubules just beneath the outer skin of the leaves. It's a bitter yellow and dried to become aloe granules that are dark brown in color.
Made into a beverage and taken internally, it has been used to help many other conditions. Some of them are constipation, ulcers, diabetes, headaches, arthritis, and coughs. Taking aloe internally does have side effects, which can include pain, electrolyte imbalances, and diarrhea.
It has been determined that it can also help with treating minor vaginal irritations.
Aloe Vera is best used when used fresh from the plant. It doesn't store well but can be bought as a preserved product. Aloe Vera can be used topically as well as taken internally. It has been used for mouth sores, what we call stomach sores, or cold sores.
Aloe Vera has been especially helpful of patients with severe and various skin diseases. It acts as a rejuvenating action. It acts as a moisturizer and hydrates the skin. After being absorbed into the skin, it stimulates the fibroblasts cells and causes them to regenerate themselves faster. It's the cells that that produce the collagen and elastin so the skin will get smoother and look younger.
Because Aloe Vera is natural, it works gently within the intestinal tract to help break down food residues that have become impacted and help clean out the bowel. When the bowel is cleaned out, it greatly reduces bloating, discomfort, and helps ease stress, which only leads to more attacks of irritable bowel syndrome.
How to Grow Aloe Vera Plants at Home
Established Aloe vera plants are available at almost any garden supplies shop or plant nursery.
Aloe plants are not very frost tolerant. If they are grown outdoors in warmer climates they should be planted in full sunlight, or partial shade. Apply a balanced liquid feed during the growing season.
For growing Aloe Vera indoors its best to place it near a window that gets a lot of sun. During summer you can move the pot(s) outside.
Watering should be kept to a minimum during the winter months but during summer the plant will require a lot of water.
If planting from scratch or re-potting your Aloe plant the potting soil should be moderately fertile and fast draining with a couple of inches
Gymnema Sylvestre may Help Lower Blood Sugar
By Darrell Miller - 2008-11-23Find more articles like this in our Traditional herbs category.
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Gymnema sylvestre is found naturally in central and southern India, where it has been used in traditional Indian medicine for almost two thousand years. It is known as 'gurmar' in ancient Indian texts, a word meaning 'sugar destroyer', which gives an indication of its uses in medicine.
It is used to reduce the absorption of glucose into the body, and also reduce the sweetness of foods, both of which are desirable for those wishing to lose weight and to reduce the level of sugar in their blood. It was used for this purpose in Ayurvedic medicine, subjects being given the leaves to chew. As with many other ancient Ayurvedic remedies, this use of gymnema sylvestre has passed into modern times, and has sound scientific basis. First, however a bit more about the plant itself.
It is found predominantly in the Western Ghats, and also to the west of the mountains, around coastal Goa. It is a vinous plant that climbs on other bushes and trees, known in Sanskrit as Meshasringa, or ram's horn after the shape of the leaves from which the supplement is extracted. For what it's worth, the official name seems a mix of Greek and Latin (gymnos(Gr) - naked and Silva (L)- forest) for naked forest. That, however, is irrelevant to its uses, so let's have a look at the science involved and the active ingredients in the plant.
The main constituents are terpenoid saponins known as gymnemic acids, so one can assume that they were first found in this plant. They are glycosides, including hodulcine and ziziphin, which act as sweetness inhibitors so that there is no sweet taste in anything that is sweetened by sucrose. There are over 20 types of gymnemic acid in the leaves, of which the strongest, Gymnemic Acid 1, can suppress the sweetness even of artificial sweeteners such as aspartame.
These are not irreversible effects, and last only about 10 minutes, after which normal sweetness is detectable by your tongue. During the active period, however, a solution of normal sugar will taste like ordinary unsweetened water. However, is this just a matter of taste, or does it affect the sugar itself?
Studies have shown that animals fed the leaves of Gymnema sylvestre develop hypoglycemia, probably because it stimulates the pancreas to generate insulin that reduces the level of sugar in the blood. Further studies have shown the presence in the leaves of a number of types of acylated derivatives of deacylgymnemic acid. There are well over a dozen types of saponins known to be contained within the leaves.
Other chemicals found include anthraquinones, flavanoids, chlorophylls, querticol, phytin, a number of glycosides and anthraquinones. The bush also contains alkaloids, although these are constituents in most plants used in ancient remedies. This is by no means all of the chemicals discovered, and many of the minor benefits of using it could be due to the minor constituents of this amazing little leaf.
A study of the above constituents will reveal a few antioxidants, and it is no surprise that the extract from Gymnema sylvestre also possesses anti-inflammatory properties. Gymnemic acid is believed to have a similar chemical structure to saccharose, and the plant extracts can be used not only to reduce a craving for sugar, but also to treat digestive problems and high cholesterol levels. So what scientific evidence is there other than the obvious effects reported by those that use it?
A study in the UK in 2005 found that an aqueous extract of Gymnema sylvestre caused the secretion of calcium and insulin from mouse and human cells to be increased at a specific concentration without affecting the cellular function. This means that the supplement can be used to stimulate the secretion of insulin with people with Type 2 diabetes without otherwise affecting health. Its usefulness to diabetics is obvious, but there are other health benefits to those that are not diabetic.
Anything that modulates a sweet tooth must be of use to those seeking to lose weight, particularly if they feel the need for sweet foods. In fact Gymnema tends to reduce food cravings for carbohydrates and sweets, and can be used by those seeking a natural means of curbing their appetite for sweet and sugary foods. Because excess weight can lead to diabetes,
Although there have been many discussions about the biochemical mechanism of the gymnemic acids in this effect on taste, recent evidence suggests that the phytochemicals act on both your taste buds and on those parts of the intestine responsible for absorbing nutrients from digested foods.
Not only that, but studies have also indicated that Gymnema sylvestre removes the bitterness of acerbic chemicals such as quinine in the same way that it removes the sweetness form cakes and candies, and if you drank tonic water it would taste just like water. On the other hand, if you ate an orange, you would taste the acidity but not the sweetness.
The way to use this remarkable supplement is to follow the instructions, and within about a week you will be able to control your appetite much better, and any cravings for carbohydrates you previously had will be much reduced. After a month or so, you will notice an accelerated rate of weight loss if you had been overweight, and diabetics will find a significant reduction on blood sugar between insulin shots.
Gymnema sylvestre can take care of any sugar or carbohydrate cravings, and is of significant use to the overweight, obese or to diabetics, and the mechanism by which it works has now been all but understood, although there are still some biochemical secrets that this amazing plant has yet to reveal. This amazing herb can be found at your local or internet vitamin store.
More information on Gymnema sylvestre extract is available at VitaNet ®, LLC Health Food Store. http://vitanetonline.com/
window.google_render_ad();
Gymnema sylvestre is found naturally in central and southern India, where it has been used in traditional Indian medicine for almost two thousand years. It is known as 'gurmar' in ancient Indian texts, a word meaning 'sugar destroyer', which gives an indication of its uses in medicine.
It is used to reduce the absorption of glucose into the body, and also reduce the sweetness of foods, both of which are desirable for those wishing to lose weight and to reduce the level of sugar in their blood. It was used for this purpose in Ayurvedic medicine, subjects being given the leaves to chew. As with many other ancient Ayurvedic remedies, this use of gymnema sylvestre has passed into modern times, and has sound scientific basis. First, however a bit more about the plant itself.
It is found predominantly in the Western Ghats, and also to the west of the mountains, around coastal Goa. It is a vinous plant that climbs on other bushes and trees, known in Sanskrit as Meshasringa, or ram's horn after the shape of the leaves from which the supplement is extracted. For what it's worth, the official name seems a mix of Greek and Latin (gymnos(Gr) - naked and Silva (L)- forest) for naked forest. That, however, is irrelevant to its uses, so let's have a look at the science involved and the active ingredients in the plant.
The main constituents are terpenoid saponins known as gymnemic acids, so one can assume that they were first found in this plant. They are glycosides, including hodulcine and ziziphin, which act as sweetness inhibitors so that there is no sweet taste in anything that is sweetened by sucrose. There are over 20 types of gymnemic acid in the leaves, of which the strongest, Gymnemic Acid 1, can suppress the sweetness even of artificial sweeteners such as aspartame.
These are not irreversible effects, and last only about 10 minutes, after which normal sweetness is detectable by your tongue. During the active period, however, a solution of normal sugar will taste like ordinary unsweetened water. However, is this just a matter of taste, or does it affect the sugar itself?
Studies have shown that animals fed the leaves of Gymnema sylvestre develop hypoglycemia, probably because it stimulates the pancreas to generate insulin that reduces the level of sugar in the blood. Further studies have shown the presence in the leaves of a number of types of acylated derivatives of deacylgymnemic acid. There are well over a dozen types of saponins known to be contained within the leaves.
Other chemicals found include anthraquinones, flavanoids, chlorophylls, querticol, phytin, a number of glycosides and anthraquinones. The bush also contains alkaloids, although these are constituents in most plants used in ancient remedies. This is by no means all of the chemicals discovered, and many of the minor benefits of using it could be due to the minor constituents of this amazing little leaf.
A study of the above constituents will reveal a few antioxidants, and it is no surprise that the extract from Gymnema sylvestre also possesses anti-inflammatory properties. Gymnemic acid is believed to have a similar chemical structure to saccharose, and the plant extracts can be used not only to reduce a craving for sugar, but also to treat digestive problems and high cholesterol levels. So what scientific evidence is there other than the obvious effects reported by those that use it?
A study in the UK in 2005 found that an aqueous extract of Gymnema sylvestre caused the secretion of calcium and insulin from mouse and human cells to be increased at a specific concentration without affecting the cellular function. This means that the supplement can be used to stimulate the secretion of insulin with people with Type 2 diabetes without otherwise affecting health. Its usefulness to diabetics is obvious, but there are other health benefits to those that are not diabetic.
Anything that modulates a sweet tooth must be of use to those seeking to lose weight, particularly if they feel the need for sweet foods. In fact Gymnema tends to reduce food cravings for carbohydrates and sweets, and can be used by those seeking a natural means of curbing their appetite for sweet and sugary foods. Because excess weight can lead to diabetes,
Although there have been many discussions about the biochemical mechanism of the gymnemic acids in this effect on taste, recent evidence suggests that the phytochemicals act on both your taste buds and on those parts of the intestine responsible for absorbing nutrients from digested foods.
Not only that, but studies have also indicated that Gymnema sylvestre removes the bitterness of acerbic chemicals such as quinine in the same way that it removes the sweetness form cakes and candies, and if you drank tonic water it would taste just like water. On the other hand, if you ate an orange, you would taste the acidity but not the sweetness.
The way to use this remarkable supplement is to follow the instructions, and within about a week you will be able to control your appetite much better, and any cravings for carbohydrates you previously had will be much reduced. After a month or so, you will notice an accelerated rate of weight loss if you had been overweight, and diabetics will find a significant reduction on blood sugar between insulin shots.
Gymnema sylvestre can take care of any sugar or carbohydrate cravings, and is of significant use to the overweight, obese or to diabetics, and the mechanism by which it works has now been all but understood, although there are still some biochemical secrets that this amazing plant has yet to reveal. This amazing herb can be found at your local or internet vitamin store.
More information on Gymnema sylvestre extract is available at VitaNet ®, LLC Health Food Store. http://vitanetonline.com/
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