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.
Açaí
Açaí is reported to be a traditional remedy for diabetes. Although oxidative stress may contribute to diabetes and anthocyanins may improve insulin secretion, there is no published evidence that açaí has any effect on diabetes.
Ginkgo
Ginkgo biloba extract may prove useful for prevention and treatment of early-stage diabetic neuropathy, though research is at best very preliminary in this area.
Hibiscus
Hibiscus is a traditional remedy in
Mistletoe
Mistletoe extract has been shown to stimulate insulin release from pancreas cells, and animal research found that it reduces symptoms of diabetes. No research in humans has yet been published ; however, given mistletoe’s worldwide reputation as a traditional remedy for diabetes, clinical trials are warranted to validate these promising preliminary findings. Traditionally, mistletoe is prepared by soaking 2 to 4 teaspoons (5 to 12 grams) of chopped mistletoe in 2 cups (500 ml) of water overnight. The mixture is drunk first thing in the morning and sweetened with honey if desired. Another batch may be left to steep during the day and drunk at bedtime.
Olive leaf
Olive leaf extracts have been used experimentally to lower elevated blood-sugar levels in diabetic animals. These results have not been reproduced in human clinical trials.
Reishi
Animal studies and some very preliminary trials in humans suggest reishi may have some beneficial action in people with diabetes.
Are there any side effects or interactions?
Refer to the individual herb for information about any side effects or interactions. Holistic approaches that may be helpful
Acupuncture may be helpful in the treatment of diabetes, or complications associated with diabetes. Preliminary trials have suggested that acupuncture can lower blood sugar and improve insulin production in people with type 2 diabetes, but trials on long-term effects have not been concluded. In a preliminary trial, 77% of people suffering from diabetic neuropathy experienced significant reduction in pain following up to six acupuncture treatments over a ten-week period. Many were also able to reduce pain medications, but no long-term change in blood-sugar control was observed. Bladder control problems, a complication of long-term diabetes, responded to acupuncture treatment with a significant reduction in symptoms in both controlled and uncontrolled trials.
By : Healthnotes
