Herbal remedies

A study on natural anti diabetic /anti cholesterolemic

foods illustrating mechanism of action.

Done by

G.Prathibha

II Msc FTM
Contents
 Introduction
 What is Diabetes?
 Symptoms of diabetes
 Causes of diabetes
 Complictions of diabetes
 Home & Herbal remedies for diabetes
 Herbs – used for diabetes
 Recipe for diabetes
 Reference
Introduction

Diabetes is one of the most commonly occurring problems round the globe. Technically it is
known as Diabetes Mellitus. This is actually a disease in which there is uncontrolled increase of
glucose or sugar level in the blood there by leading to many troubles. This condition is
characterized by the body's inability to move digested carbohydrates and sugars into cells.

Insulin, a protein hormone, is necessary to shuttle the nutrients into the cells. People with
diabetes either no longer make insulin, don't make enough of it, or their cells stop responding to
it no matter how much of it is present.The glucose levels are controlled by a chemical known as
insulin in the body. These disturbances in the insulin levels lead to the uncontrolled increase in
the glucose in the blood that can even be detected in the urine.

This section of diabetes will guide you to various remedial ways by which you can not only
will get relief from your diabetes but also will get cured with this stubborn diseases

Diabetes is a metabolic disorder that prevents the body from utilizing glucose completely or
partially. There are basically two types of diabetes

1. Type 1 diabetes mellitus (insulin-dependent diabetes)

2. Type 2 diabetes mellitus (non-insulin-dependent diabetes)

In type 1 diabetes the body doesn’t produce enough insulin to keep blood sugar at normal levels
whereas in type 2 diabetes the cells do not properly respond to the insulin. The normal fasting
blood sugar is 80-120 mg/dL; this can go up to a level of 160 mg/dL two hours after meals. Type
1 diabetes usually occurs in childhood or adolescence but can develop at any age. These patients
need insulin everyday.

Type 2 diabetes is common among adults, especially those who are overweight and over age 40.
These people are able to control their blood sugar levels through weight control, regular exercise
and a well-balanced diet.

Symptoms of Diabetes Mellitus

Following are the major diabetes symptoms:

1. Increased thirst
2. Frequent urination
3. Increase in appetite
4. Weight loss in type 1 diabetes
5. Obesity in type 2 diabetes
6. Skin irritation or infection
7. Decreased healing capacity
8. Weakness or loss of strength
9. Erection problems

Causes of Diabetes

Following are the major diabetes causes:

1. Hereditary factors
2. Excess intake of carbohydrate foods like chocolates, rice etc
3. Insulin deficiency
4. Insulin resistance
5. High blood pressure
6. High cholesterol
7. Stressful and over burdened life
8. Lack of exercise or physical activities
9. Excess eating habits

Diabetes Complications

1. Hardening of the arteries (atherosclerosis)

2. Heart problems
3. Eye problems
4. Blindness
5. kidney problems
6. Nerve problems

Natural Home Remedies for Diabetes

Following are some of the effective home remedies for diabetes:

1. Boil 15 fresh Mango leaves in 1 glass of water. Leave overnight. Filter this water and drink
first thing in the morning. It is an effective home remedy for diabetes
2. Mix 1/2 teaspoon of ground bay leaf and 1/2 teaspoon turmeric in 1 tablespoon aloe vera gel.
Take this mixture two times a day before lunch and dinner. It is also good diabetes mellitus
treatments.
3. Drink a watery juice of a small Bitter Gourd (remove seeds) every morning. It is one of the
best home remedies for diabetes.
4. Add 3-table spoon of cinnamon to 1 litre of boiling water. Simmer for 20 minutes in a low
flame, and then strain the mixture. Drink this mixture daily to cure diabetes.
5. Eat tender curry leaves (fresh) twice a day to reduce sugar.
6. Take the juice of crushed fish-berry (amruth) soaked in water for a day first thing in the
morning.

Diabetes Treatment and Advice

1. Do regular exercises and yoga

2. Lose weight
3. Eat fiber rich foods
4. Drink eight to ten glasses of water daily
5. Do not take alcohol, soft drinks, and sugary desserts
6. Avoid bare foot walking
7. Test urine regularly

Herbal Remedies for Diabetes

Eating a diet rich in fiber helps the body absorb sugars slowly, which in turn keeps blood sugar
levels on a more even keel. Most of the vegetables and fruits in your garden are rich in fiber. The
soluble type of fiber, the one that does the best job of stabilizing blood sugar levels, is abundant
in apples, apricots, beets, berries, carrots, citrus fruits, parsnips, and winter squash, to name a
few. Oats are extremely rich in soluble fiber; their bran makes a good addition to cereals and
baked goods. Soluble fiber is also helpful in lowering elevated LDL cholesterol levels, a serious
problem in many people with diabetes.

Consume garlic and onions in large quantities. These flavorful foods help to lower "bad" LDL
cholesterol and raise "good" HDL cholesterol and prevent heart disease. People with diabetes
tend to have a greater risk of heart disease because the lack of insulin prompts fat to float
throughout the bloodstream longer and in higher levels than normal. Eat a diet abundant in
vegetables and moderate in sweet fruits to get a rich array of antioxidants such as vitamin C, the
carotenes, and flavonoids. Antioxidants help prevent fats from oxidizing and causing damage to
artery walls, which can lead to plaque buildup and heart disease.

Basil leaves have been shown to lower blood sugar levels. Cactus juice from pods, sometimes
found in produce markets or grown in arid climates, is also helpful.

The leaves of the bilberry plant are known to lower blood sugar levels, but don't try to self-
medicate your diabetes -- contact a nutritionally trained health care provider before changing
your regimen. The berries of this wild perennial help people with diabetes avoid some of the
typical complications that are usually related to diminished blood circulation. They have
compounds in them that improve circulation and help keep blood cells from clumping together.
Their flavonoids keep tiny blood capillaries strong so blood can continue to circulate to all parts
of the body.

The leaves of the fig tree are a very useful blood-sugar-lowering treatment. Fig trees can be
grown in warmer climates. Use caution if you are taking insulin or an oral hypoglycemic drug.

Herbal Remed for Diabetes

1. Prepare a mixture by adding equal quantities of turmeric powder and dried gooseberry powder
with honey or drink equal quantities of gooseberry juice and fresh turmeric juice in an empty
stomach daily.
2. Eat garlic regularly as it regulates sugar level.
3. Dalchini ((Cinnamonum zeylancium) is also an effective herbal remedies for diabetes.
4. Bitter melon is wonderful herb in treating diabetes mellitus.

Herbs for Diabetes

Since antiquity, diabetes has been treated with plant medicines. Recent scientific investigation
has confirmed the efficacy of many of these preparations, some of which are remarkably
effective. Only those herbs that appear most effective, are relatively non-toxic and have
substantial documentation of efficacy are covered here.

Pterocarpus marsupium (Indian Kino, Malabar Kino, Pitasara, Venga)

The tree is the source of the Kino of the European pharmacopeas. The gum-resin looks like dried
blood (Dragon's blood), much used in Indian medicine. This herb has a long history of use in
India as a treatment for diabetes. The flavonoid, (-)-epicatechin, extracted from the bark of this
plant has been shown to prevent alloxan-induced beta cell damage in rats.

Both epicatechin and a crude alcohol extract of Pterocarpus marsupium have actually been
shown to regenerate functional pancreatic beta cells. No other drug or natural agent has been
shown to generate this activity.

Bitter Melon (Momordica charantia)

Bitter melon, also known as balsam pear, is a tropical vegetable widely cultivated in Asia, Africa
and South America, and has been used extensively in folk medicine as a remedy for diabetes.
The blood sugar lowering action of the fresh juice or extract of the unripe fruit has been clearly
established in both experimental and clinical studies.

Bitter melon is composed of several compounds with confirmed anti-diabetic properties.

Charantin, extracted by alcohol, is a hypoglycaemic agent composed of mixed steroids that is
more potent than the drug tolbutamide which is often used in the treatment of diabetes.
Momordica also contains an insulin-like polypeptide, polypeptide-P, which lowers blood sugar
levels when injected subcutaneously into type 1 diabetic patients. The oral administration of 50-
60 ml of the juice has shown good results in clinical trials.

Excessively high doses of bitter melon juice can cause abdominal pain and diarrhea. Small
children or anyone with hypoglycemia should not take bitter melon, since this herb could
theoretically trigger or worsen low blood sugar, or hypoglycemia. Furthermore, diabetics taking
hypoglycemic drugs (such as chlorpropamide, glyburide, or phenformin) or insulin should use
bitter melon with caution, as it may potentiate the effectiveness of the drugs, leading to severe
hypoglycemia.

Gymnema Sylvestre (Gurmar, Meshasringi, Cherukurinja)

Gymnema assists the pancreas in the production of insulin in Type 2 diabetes. Gymnema also
improves the ability of insulin to lower blood sugar in both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes. It
decreases cravings for sweet. This herb can be an excellent substitute for oral blood sugar-
lowering drugs in Type 2 diabetes. Some people take 500 mg per day of gymnema extract.

Onion and Garlic ( Allium cepa and Allium sativum)

Onion and garlic have significant blood sugar lowering action. The principal active ingredients
are believed to be allyl propyl disulphide (APDS) and diallyl disulphide oxide (allicin), although
other constitutents such as flavonoids may play a role as well. 

Experimental and clinical evidence suggests that APDS lowers glucose levels by competing with
insulin for insulin-inactivating sites in the liver. This results in an increase of free insulin. APDS
administered in doses of 125 mg/ kg to fasting humans was found to cause a marked fall in blood
glucose levels and an increase in serum insulin. Allicin doses of 100 mg/kg produced a similar
effect. 

Onion extract was found to reduce blood sugar levels during oral and intravenous glucose
tolerance. The effect improved as the dosage was increased; however, beneficial effects were
observed even for low levels that used in the diet (eg., 25 to 200 grams). The effects were similar
in both raw and boiled onion extracts. Onions affect the hepatic metabolism of glucose and/or
increases the release of insulin, and/or prevent insulin's destruction. 

The additional benefit of the use of garlic and onions are their beneficial cardiovascular effects.
They are found to lower lipid levels, inhibit platelet aggregation and are antihypertensive. So,
liberal use of onion and garlic are recommended for diabetic patients. 

Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum) 

Experimental and clinical studies have demonstrated the antidiabetic properties of fenugreek
seeds. The active ingredient responsible for the antidiabetic properties of fenugreek is in the
defatted portion of the seed that contains the alkaloid trogonelline, nicotinic acid and coumarin. 

Blueberry leaves (Vaccinium myrtillus) 

A decoction of the leaves of the blueberry has a long history of folk use in the treatment of
diabetes. The compound myrtillin (an anthocyanoside) is apparently the most active ingredient.
Upon injection it is somewhat weaker than insulin, but is less toxic, even at 50 times the 1 g per
day therapeutic dose. A single dose can produce beneficial effects lasting several weeks.

Blueberry anthocyanosides also increase capillary integrity, inhibit free-radical damage and
improve the tone of the vascular system. In Europe, it is used as an anti-haemorrhagic agent in
the treatment of eye diseases including diabetic retinopathy. 

Asian Ginseng
Asian ginseng is commonly used in traditional Chinese medicine to treat diabetes. It has been
shown to enhance the release of insulin from the pancreas and to increase the number of insulin
receptors. It also has a direct blood sugar-lowering effect.
A recent study found that 200 mg of ginseng extract per day improved blood sugar control as
well as energy levels in Type 2 diabetes (NIDDM).

Bilberry

Bilberry may lower the risk of some diabetic complications, such as diabetic cataracts and
retinopathy. 

Stevia

Stevia has been used traditionally to treat diabetes. Early reports suggested that stevia might have
beneficial effects on glucose tolerance (and therefore potentially help with diabetes), although
not all reports have confirmed this. Even if stevia did not have direct antidiabetic effects, its use
as a sweetener could reduce intake of sugars in such patients.

Ginkgo Biloba

Ginkgo biloba extract may prove useful for prevention and treatment of early-stage diabetic
neuropathy.

Cinnamon -  Triples insulin's efficiency

Barberry - One of the mildest and best liver tonics known.

Dosage: tincture, 10-30 drops; standard decoction or 3-9 g.

Herbs and spices have been used to treat various diseases and ailments for thousands of years.
There is now much renewed interest in these altenative medicines, with many new medicinal
uses coming to light. For the purpose of this article, both spices and herbs will be referred to as
herbal remedies.

First, what are herbs and spices? Spices are derived from the roots, bark, buds and fruit of plants.
Herbs are usually taken from the leaves of various plants. Both of these retain their potency for
long periods if they are stored properly.

Both herbs and spices are excellent antioxidants, which work to neutralize attacks made by free
radicals against the body. Spices also contain phytonutrients, which may prevent the mutation
on healthy cells into cancerous cells.

A great advantage that the use of herbal remedies have over commercial drugs is the reduced
side effects, since the concentration of active ingredients is much lower. It should be noted that
individuals who suffer from various allergies, children and women who are pregnant or nursing
should always have a consultation with a physician before using any type of herbal treatment.
Some herbal remedies have the same active ingredients as those used in commercial drugs.
Herbal medicines come in several forms. They may be obtained in pills, capsules, liquids
(tinctures or extracts) or in their natural form as obtained from plants.

For fastest relief, herbal extracts are the best choices since they are absorbed very quickly into
the body. These must be measured, which makes them slightly less convenient than the pill or
capsule forms, yet results are seen almost instantly. For long-term treatment and effects, capsules
and tablets are the most practical and convenient form. Also widely available are herbal powders,
which may be made into teas.

Although there are hundreds of different herbs and spices used for health purposes, some of the
more common ones are listed below, along with their uses.

Garlic

Garlic is one of the best-known and widely used herbal medicines. Garlic is a strong weapon
against infection and a natural antibiotic. It has been found to reduce cholesterol and high blood
pressure and is sometimes used to treat yeast infections.

Chamomile

Chamomile is often used as a tea for its mild sedative effects. It is also used to soother digestive
ailments and to reduce fever. It may also be applied topically to soothe skin irritations and diaper
rash.

Nutmeg

A common household spice, nutmeg is a natural stimulant to the cardiovascular system. It is also
used to relieve the joint inflammation associated with gout. This spice should be used carefully
since large doses can be toxic. It is not to be used by pregnant women or children as a herbal
remedy.

Thyme

This spice may also be used as an antiseptic agent when crushed and applied to clean cuts and
abrasions. As a tea, it calms the stomach and can reduce the pain of menstrual cramps. Thyme
may also be used as a treatment for colds.

Ginger

Ginger has many medicinal uses. It is a very effective treatment for motion sicknesss and general
nausea. It is also use to treat menstrual cramps and the nausea associated with chemotherapy.
Sage

This pungent herb is used as a remedy for colds, sore throat and other respiratory ailments, as
well as urinary tract problems. It has been used to control some symptoms of diabetes.

Fennel

Fennel is a herb used widely to treat infant colic and gas. It is also a strong liver detoxifier and
diuretic.

Fenugreek

Fenugreek is used by many women who suffer from the symptoms of menopause--hot flashes,
night sweats, etc. It is also used to reduce cholesterol and relieve constipation. It has been
discovered that fenugreek binds with wholesterol in the intestine and encourages the excretion of
cholesterol from the body.

Cloves

Cloves act as a wound antiseptic by killing harmful bacteria. It is also used to treat indigestion
and diarrhea. Cloves also acts as a deterrent to free-radical damage to the body.

Rosemary

Rosemary is another herbal remedy which calms the digestive system. As an oil, it is used to
help relieve sore muscles and increase circulation when applied to the skin.

Turmeric

This spice has been used to treat arthritis, dysentery and heart disease. It is also believed to lower
the risk for certain cancers by attacking free radicals.

Cayenne (Red Pepper)

Cayenne may be taken or used topically. It contains capsaicin, a substance which is also used as
an active ingredient in many commercial pain medications. Cayenne also aids in digestion.

Celery Seed

This spice is also used to treat heart disease, high blood pressure and to reduce cholesterol.

Coriander

Another digestive calmant, coriander is used to treat colic and general nausea.
Cinnamon

This spice is used to ocntrol the level of blood sugar for diabetics. It is also used to relieve the
symptoms of urinary tract infections and yeast infections.

Golden Seal

This is a powerful detoxifier and is used to relieve sore throat, gum inflammation and yeast
infections.

Oregano

Used to relieve various respiratory problems, oregano may also relieve digestive upset and yeast
infections.

Licorice Root

Licorice root is a remedy to relieve menopausal symptoms. In some instances, it has been found
to have as much effect as hormone replacement therapy in women.

Saffron

Studies have shown saffron to be instrumental in destroying the cancer cells that cause leukemia.

Curcumin

Curcumin is being studied as a treatment for HIV, the virus that causes AIDS.
Recipe for diabetes
Bittermelon Sambhar

Ingredients

Toor dal - 2 cups

Turmeric powder - 1 tsp.
Oil  - 2 to 4 tbsp.
Bitter melon, discard the seeds and cut into rounds - 3 or 4
Tomatoes, chopped - 2 small
Tamarind juice - 2 or 3 tsp.
Jaggery - 4 tbsp.
Grated, coconut - 4 tbsp.
Sambar Powder - 3 tbsp.
Spring curry leaves  - 1 long
Salt to taste

Method

1.Pressure cook  the  toor dal  along with  water and turmeric  till soft and keep aside.

2.Grind  together the sambar powder, coconut adding  little water to a fine paste.

3.Heat oil in a pan and saute the  bitter melon till light brown.

4.Add tomatoes, salt, tamarind, jaggery, cooked dal, ground paste, curry leaves and little water
and bring it to boil

5.Continue to boil until the sambar thickens.

6.Remove from the heat.

7.Meanwhile heat oil in a pan, add  the seasoning ingredients and saute for a while before adding
to the sambar
Methi Chutney

Ingredients

 2 bunches Methi leaves (Menthi Kura)

 ½ tbsp tamarind
 coriander-finely chopped
 ½ tsp turmeric powder
 salt to taste

For Seasoning

 1 tsp mustard seeds

 3 dry red chillies
 1 tsp urad dal
 2 tsp peanut oil

Method

 Pour a tsp of oil in a pan; urad dal, mustard seeds, hing, red chillies & in it. Keep it aside
to cool.
 In the same pan, put some oil and add methi leaves and fry till the colour changes to dark.
Let it cool.
 Grind above seasoning with fried methi leaves,tamarind, salt, turmeric to a fine paste, by
adding 5-6 drops of warm water when required.
 Garnish this with chopped coriander.
Reference:

 Rahman, A.U. and K. Zaman.1989. Medicinal Plants with Hypoglycemic Activity. J.

Ethnopharmacol., 26: 1-55.

 Yusuf, M., J.U. Chaudhury, M.A., Whab and J. Begum. 1994. In: Medicinal plants of
Bangladesh,
Bangladesh Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (BCSIR) Laboratories, Chittagong,
Bangladesh.

 Swanston-Flat, S.K., Day, C., Bailey, C.J.,Flatt, P.R., Traditional plant treatments for diabetes:
studies in normal and streptozotocin diabetic mice. Diabetologia 33, (1990) 462– 464.

 Olsnes, S., Sandvig, K., Refsnes, K., Pihl, A. Rates of different steps involved in the inhibition of
protein synthesis by the toxic lectins abrin and ricin. J. Biol. Chem. 251,(1976) 3985–3992.

 Kirtikar, K.R., Basu, B.A. Indian Med. Plants 3, (1991) 2274–2277.