An epidemic worldwide, Diabetes is a disorder which alters blood sugar levels and the production of insulin that can cause various complications if left untreated. Although, it can be managed through lifestyle modifications and exercises. A few spices and herbs along with dietary changes can reduce blood sugar. These remedies are not only economic but can help in reducing dependency on medicines too.
Herbs That Can Reduce Blood Sugar
1. Fenugreek: seeds are rich in minerals, vitamins, calcium, iron and proteins. It helps in controlling sugar and releasing insulin. The seeds have a high content of dietary soluble fibre which helps in slowing down the absorption of carbs and sugar.
How to Consume:
- You can soak 1–2 tablespoons of fenugreek seeds in a glass of water overnight. Chew the seeds and drink the water the next morning on an empty stomach.
- Fenugreek leaves can be added in dough for chapatis or in vegetables.
- Seeds can be dry roasted to add them in food preparations.
- Seeds can be sprouted for salads.
2. Oregano: Due to high content of glycosides, flavonoids and polyphenols, Oregano helps reduce blood sugar levels. It helps in increasing the level of insulin in the body too.
How to Consume:
- In dried form, oregano can be added in salads, soups, or other dishes.
- Fresh herbs can be added in boiling water, let it steep for 5mins, strain and drink as tea in the morning.
- You can chew 5-6 oregano leaves regularly.
3. Curry Leaves: are the aromatic leaves widely used in culinary preparations. It helps in decreasing blood sugar levels and also promotes carbohydrate metabolism.
How to Consume: Curry leaves can be chewed every day on an empty stomach or can be used in preparation of food in kitchen
4. Aloe Vera: is a magical herb that not only controls diabetes but has proven beneficial in other ailments too.
How to Consume: You can prepare Aloe Vera juice by adding 2 teaspoons of Aloe Vera gel in a glass of water and drink it twice a day.
5. Turmeric: Curcumin, an active component in turmeric, helps reduce blood sugar, improve beta cell function and fatty acid oxidation, thereby proving to be a miracle ingredient to combat the disease.
How to Consume:
- Turmeric powder can be used in cooking food or blend in smoothies.
- Curcumin capsules can be taken twice a day before meals.
6. Clove: in ayurveda, are used as a main ingredient to cure various ailments. This spice also helps in stabilising blood sugar levels.
How to Consume:
- Cloves can be used in culinary dishes.
- Coarsely grind the cloves and add them to a mug of boiling water. Let it boil for about 10 minutes. Strain the liquid and drink it warm.
7. Ginger: Gingerol is an active component present in ginger and is a common sugar control medicine in Ayurveda. It increases the secretion of insulin in the pancreas.
How to Consume: Ginger can be used to prepare ginger tea or can be chewed in raw form daily.
8. Sadabahar: is a common plant found in India. Its flowers are the main component to help reduce blood sugar levels.
How to Consume:
- Sadabahar flowers can be boiled in water for a few minutes, strain and drink as tea in the morning.
- 3-4 leaves can be chewed daily on an empty stomach.
9. Neem: Since time immemorial, neem is used for various ailments. Not only leaves, all parts of this plant are used in ayurveda medicines. Neem is also known to reduce blood sugar levels.
How to Consume: Boil about 10 neem leaves in a glass of water for 5 minutes till the leaves become soft and the water turns green. Strain and drink twice a day.
We hope these wonder herbs help you reduce blood sugar. But before trying any of these, do consult your doctor and do not replace your essential medication with these.
For more information on diabetes, how to reduce blood sugar levels and other queries, check out Healthy Reads.
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