If you are suffering from diabetes you are aware of what the long-term complications of chronic high blood glucose levels are. You risk damage to your eyes, kidneys, nerves, blood vessels, and a variety of other organs. Persistent elevated blood sugar levels contribute to the damage but it can be avoided. If you have type II diabetics or are pre-diabetic you can avoid the damage by adding herbal supplements to your diet.

Prior to heading to your pharmacist it is recommended that you do some research regarding the product you choose as the strength and dosage of herbal products vary. It is always a good idea to purchase a quality name brand product as batches can often vary if you purchase a lesser known product. You will definitely want to have assurance that you are purchasing a product that will deliver consistent results.

If you have Type I diabetes and require insulin adding herbs with blood sugar lowering effects?is not recommended due to the serious potential for life -threatening hypoglycemia (extremely low blood sugar) or other medical complications.

While there are hundreds of herbal supplements that can assist in lowering your blood glucose levels I am only concentrating on those that can be easily purchased.

Aloe Vera (Aloe): Four species of this plant are recognized as having nutritional value with Aloe barbadensis leading the group. Early research shows that aloe gel might lower blood glucose levels. Recommended doseage is usually (15-30 ml (50 mg) per day.

American Ginseng: Recent studies have shown that Ginseng may be helpful in reducing blood glucose levels in Type II diabetic patients.

Bilberry (Huckleberry): Bilberry has been used in traditional European medicine for nearly a thousand years, primarily to treat diarrhea. Bilberry has antioxidant properties that help promote circulation in the eyes. Studies done on diabetic dogs indicate benefits in reducing blood sugar levels.

Bitter Melon: At least three different compounds in Bitter Melon have been reported to have sugar-regulating properties. Gurmarin, a polypeptide, is considered to be similar to bovine insulin.

Cinnamon Bark: Cinnamon is getting a lot of attention as a treatment for diabetes. Early studies show that it can lower blood glucose and cholesterol levels in people with type 2 diabetes. As little as ? to ? teaspoonfuls can have a powerful effect in lowering blood sugar.

Fenugreek: Fenugreek is effective for lowering blood sugar after meals. The recommended dose is 10-15 grams per day in divided doses with meals.

Ginger: Early research shows that ginger might increase insulin levels. It could also, theoretically, have an additive effect with medication used to treat diabetes and cause hypoglycemia.

Stevia: Stevia is a non-caloric herb, native to Paraguay, which has been used as a sweetener and flavor enhancer for centuries. Research suggests that stevioside, a constituent of Stevia, might reduce postprandial glucose levels by 18% in people with Type II diabetes.

Tumeric: Tumeric may decrease blood sugar levels (and cholesterol).

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