Latin Name: Gymnema sylvestre
Alternate Names: Gurmar (Hindi)
Family: ASCLEPIADACEAE
Parts Used: Leaves, root.
Properties: Astringent, Diuretic, Refrigerant, Stomach Tonic, Tonic.
Internal Uses: Diabetes, Fever, Hypoglycemia, Obesity, Sugar Addiction
Internal Applications: Tea, Tincture, Capsules.
When Gymnema is taken before eating, gymnemic acid blocks the taste of sugar, thereby reducing the desire to eat it. The molecules of the gymnemic acid fill the receptor sites for one to two hours, thus preventing the taste buds from being activated by the sugar molecules in food. It also helps to stabilize blood sugar levels and enhances insulin production.
Topical Uses: Snakebites, Swollen Glands
Topical Applications: In India, powdered Gymnema has been applied as a poultice for snakebites. Swollen glands are treated with a poultice of Gymnema and castor oil.
Energetics: Sweet, Cool.
Chemical Constituents: Gymnemic acid, tartaric acid, calcium oxalate, glucose, stigmasterol, betaine, choline.
Contraindications: If one is insulin dependent and uses Gymnema, consult with a physician, as insulin medication may need to be readjusted.