Natural Remedies & Herbs for Type 1 Diabetes

Several herbs may help in managing symptoms associated with diabetes, including the control of blood sugar levels.

Cayenne

Double-blind trials have shown that topical application of creams containing 0.025 to 0.075% capsaicin (from cayenne [Capsicum frutescens]) can relieve symptoms of diabetic nerve damage (neuropathy). Four or more applications per day may be required to relieve severe pain. This should be done only under a doctor’s supervision.

Bilberry

Bilberry may lower the risk of some diabetic complications, such as diabetic cataracts and retinopathy. One preliminary trial found that supplementation with a standardized extract of bilberry improved signs of retinal damage in some people with diabetic retinopathy.

Gymnema

Test tube and animal studies have found several mechanisms by which gymnema may help normalize blood sugar control in diabetics. In a controlled trial with people with type 1 diabetes, 400 mg per day of gymnema extract reduced requirements for insulin. Whether the extract used in this study was standardized for active constituents is unclear. Recently, a preliminary trial found improved blood sugar levels after three months in a group of people with type 1 and type 2 diabetes who took 800 mg per day of an extract standardized for 25% gymnemic acids. Gymnema is not a substitute for insulin, but insulin amounts may need to be lowered in order to avoid hypoglycemia while taking gymnema.

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