Natural Remedies for Diabetes

Diabetes is a disease characterized by high levels of blood sugar (glucose) in the bloodstream, resulting from defects in insulin production or insulin resistance.

Glucose is the main source of energy for the body. In order for the glucose to be converted into energy, the hormone insulin is needed. This hormone allows glucose in blood to enter cells and used for energy.

In people with diabetes, this process is impaired, either due to the body’s pancreas is unable produce sufficient amounts of insulin (type 1 diabetes) or the insulin produced is defective and cannot move the glucose into the cells (type 2 diabetes). As a result, glucose builds up in the blood instead of entering cells, causing cells to be deprived of energy. If high blood glucose levels persist, it may result in damage to the eyes, heart, kidneys, and nerves.

While diabetes can not be completely cured, it can be managed by keeping blood sugar close to normal. There are many medications available to control blood sugar, but you might want to try some natural remedies as they don’t have the potentially harmful side effects that some medications have. Now let’s take a look at the some of the most common natural remedies for diabetes.

Bitter Gourd

Bitter gourd is one of the best natural remedy for diabetes. Consume at least one tablespoon of bitter gourds juice every morning on an empty stomach. After taking for a few weeks, you’ll notice an improvement in your blood sugar levels.

Fenugreek

Just like bitter gourd, fenugreek is also an excellent remedy for diabetes. Soak some fenugreek seeds in a bowl of water and keep it overnight. In the next morning, consume the seeds as well as the water.

Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple Cider Vinegar has been found to be effective in the treatment of diabetes. In a 2007 study published in Diabetes Care, researchers found that type 2 diabetes patients who consumed two tablespoons of apple cider vinegar at bedtime showed dramatic changes in blood sugar levels the following morning.

Cinnamon

Cinnamon is another great natural remedy for type 2 diabetes. Cinnamon contains certain polyphenols which are known effective to reduce blood sugar. Boil about 200 ml of water with half a teaspoon of cinnamon powder and drink it every morning for 40 days.

Watermelon

Watermelon is a great source of minerals such as potassium and magnesium which are essential for maintaining normal insulin sensitivity, thereby reducing the blood sugar level. Simply boil some watermelon peel (30g) with a bowl of water and drink it twice or trice daily for best results.

Onions

Onions are also effective in treating diabetes. Onions contain allyl propyl disulfide that helps stimulate insulin production in the pancreas and thus stabilize blood sugar levels. Boil an onion for up to 3 minutes, add salt and consume it twice a day will suffice.

Garlic

Along with onion, garlic is another common ingredient in the kitchen that can helps to treat diabetes. The active ingredient in garlic called Allicin helps stimulate the pancreas to release insulin and thus very beneficial for people with type 2 diabetes. You can consume it raw or cooked. No matter how garlic is taken, it can keep your blood sugar in check.

Green Tea

Green tea has been used in traditional Chinese medicine to treat various health problems including diabetes. Green Tea lowers blood sugar levels by enhancing insulin activity in the pancreas. Consume one cup of Green Tea before bed for about four weeks. People should start see the results within four weeks after consuming it daily.

Mango Leaves

Mango has many health benefits including treating diabetes. The mango leaves are very helpful in lowering blood sugar. Take 15 fresh mango leaves and boil them in one glass of water. Leave it overnight. Filter and drink the water first thing in the morning. This can help lowering blood sugar levels.

Neem Leaves

Neem leaves can also help in reducing blood sugar levels. Pick about 10 neem leaves and crush them to extract its juice. Boil the juice with a glass of water for 20 minutes. This should be taken in the morning on an empty stomach to ensure optimum efficacy.

These are only some natural remedies available for treating diabetes. If you are on any diabetes medications, be sure to try them only under a qualified health professional, because some of these may interact with the medications you are taking and result in hypoglycemia.