Gymnema is a complementary treatment for type 1 and type 2 diabetes. While it isn’t a replacement for insulin, it may aid in blood sugar regulation.

Gymnema is a woody climbing shrub from the forests of India and Africa. It has been used medicinally in Ayurveda (an ancient Indian practice) for over 2,000 years.

Gymnema is most often consumed in Western medicine as pills or tablets, which makes dosage easier to control and monitor. It can also be taken as a leaf powder or extract.

One of the key active compounds in this plant is gymnemic acid.

When consumed before eating sugary foods or drinks, gymnemic acid blocks the sugar receptors on your taste buds. This can diminish the ability to taste sweetness, making sugary foods less appealing.

While scientific evidence on gymnema’s ability to lower blood sugar is not yet sufficient to recommend it as a stand-alone treatment for diabetes, research indicates strong potential.

A 2001 study found that gymnemic acid can also block receptors in the intestines, reducing sugar absorption and, subsequently, postmeal blood sugar levels.

The study authors concluded that lowering postmeal blood sugar leads to a reduction in average blood sugar levels over time, which could help reduce the long-term complications of diabetes.

This may be linked to its effects on insulin secretion and cell regeneration.

Gymnema seems to support healthy insulin levels by boosting insulin production and promoting the regeneration of insulin-secreting islet cells, both of which can help lower blood sugar levels.

Gymnema sylvestre is considered safe for most people. However, it shouldn’t be used by people who are pregnant, people who are nursing, or children.

Gymnema is not a substitute for diabetes medication. It may even interfere with blood sugar medication that you’re already taking.

While lowering high blood sugar is generally a positive thing in people with diabetes, lowering it too much can be extremely dangerous.

Aspirin and St. John’s wort may also increase gymnema’s blood-sugar-lowering effects.

Make an appointment to consult with a healthcare professional before you start taking gymnema. They’ll help you decide if it’s safe for you to take, and what dose you should start with.

Your healthcare professional might have you test more frequently or adjust the dosage of your other medications to compensate for gymnema’s effects.