The herb of Gymnema has been used to treat diabetes in India and southern China for more than 2,000 years.

The hypoglycemic function of the Gymnema leaves was published in the late 1920s. Its function is naturally progressive, unlike the rapid effect of many prescribed hypoglycemic drugs. In studies of healthy volunteers, the leaves have been shown to increase insulin levels. Based on animal studies, this may be due to the regeneration of insulin-producing pancreatic cells. Other animal studies have shown that the Gymnema leaves also improves glucose entry into cells and prevents adrenaline from lowering blood sugar levels by stimulating the liver to make glucose. It also showed that Gymnema leaves in diabetic animals not only led to an improvement in glucose balance, but also to the regeneration of beta cells in the pancreas. It is the only compound that has shown the ability to reduce signs of diabetes by directly repairing/regenerating insulin-making cells in the pancreas. The Gymnema leaves have also been indicated to lower serum cholesterol and triglycerides. Some researchers have suggested that Gymnemic Acid may be the cause. Another component of the leaves, the Glycosuppressor peptide, together with Gymnemic Acid, have been shown to block the body's ability to taste sweetness.

In a double-blind clinical trial in India, 400mg per day of water-soluble acid extract from the leaves of Gymnema (25% Gymnemic Acid) was used. In type II diabetes, long-term use over an 18-24 month period has been shown to be feasible. Similar doses have been used successfully as an adjunct to continued insulin use in patients with type I (insulin-dependent) diabetes. After further discussion with doctors, insulin dosage may need to be reduced when taking the Gymnema extract.

As long as it is used in the recommended dosage, the Gymnema Extract is basically safe and has no side effects. The safety of the Gymnema Extract during pregnancy and lactation has not been tested. People with diabetes should only take the Gymnema Extract to lower blood sugar under the clinical supervision of a nursing professional.

Chemical composition:

The standard Gymnema Extract contains 25% Gymnemic Acid.