Seven Useful Herbs for People With Type 2 Diabetes

No herb can replace medical treatment, in any case it could complement it, as long as your medical professional authorizes it.

Reviewed and approved by the doctor Karla Henríquez.

Written by Okairy Zuñiga

Last update: 26 May, 2022

Have you ever wondered if there are herbs that can help people with type 2 diabetes and how they can be used? Don’t worry, we’ll give you the answers and tell you more about it below.

Firstly, you must remember that type 2 diabetes is a chronic disorder, that is, it requires lifelong treatment. And according to the experts at the U.S. National Library of Medicine, it’s the most common type of diabetes.

This illness comes along with elevated blood glucose levels when your body doesn’t produce enough insulin, a hormone that facilitates the capture of glucose by other cells.

This keeps the glucose in your blood instead of burning it for energy. Therefore, to prevent this type of diabetes, it’s recommended to follow your physician’s advice, exercise, and eat a healthy diet.

The best herbs for people with type 2 diabetes

1. Turmeric

The first herb we’ll talk about treating type 2 diabetes is turmeric. In Ayurvedic medicine, it’s appreciated for its numerous health benefits. However, it’s most well known as an anti-inflammatory.

Furthermore, thanks to its active compound, curcumin, it helps lower blood sugar levels. All you have to do is consume a bit of turmeric every day.

There’s research indicating that turmeric is helpful in relieving arthritis-related discomfort. In relation to type 2 diabetes, the evidence is currently very weak, though

2. Ginger is a great herb for people with type 2 diabetes

Another herb that can help people with type 2 diabetes is ginger. It’s associated with the ability to relieve ailments such as analgesics, anti-inflammatory, digestive, etc.

• Over the years, there have also been studies done to dig deeper into the properties of this root.
• Several of them have shown that it has positive effects on the health of people with type 2 diabetes.

3. Cinnamon

Cinnamon is another spice obtained from plants that can help you control or treat type 2 diabetes.

In general, it can help stabilize blood sugar levels because it reduces the absorption of glucose after eating. It also improves fasting blood sugar levels as well as lowering cholesterol levels.

• There are two main types of cinnamon, and Cassia is the most effective for lowering blood glucose. 
• However, you can also use the Ceylan variety.

To avoid negative side effects, if you plan to use it daily, consult your doctor first.

4. Black curry

Black curry is another herb that can benefit people with type 2 diabetes. In addition, the seed helps to:

• Reduce lipids in your blood.
• Fight inflammation and bacteria.
• Protect your heart and liver.

When you have black curry, your blood sugar levels may significantly decrease up to 50%. However, to date researchers have found no scientific research to support these claims.

5. Aloe vera

This plant can provide you with a lot of benefits. From soothing sunburns to hydrating your skin, and even helping treat type 2 diabetes and other ailments.

Aloe vera lowers fasting blood sugar levels. However, to get the benefits of the plant, have a little bit of fresh aloe vera juice on a daily basis. Furthermore, you can add it to your diet with the authorization of your doctor.

6. Berberine

According to some hypotheses, berberine could also help control or treat type 2 diabetes. However, use it with caution because in excessive amounts it may have side effects when used without medical supervision.

According to Medline experts: “Berberine appears to slightly reduce blood sugar levels in people with diabetes.”

7. Blueberry leaves

Many people believe that making tea from cranberry leaves may help control type 2 diabetes. So, to do this, follow the steps below.

Ingredients

• 1/4 c. of water
• 10 blueberry leaves

Preparation

• Firstly, boil the liter of water and once it reaches a full boil, add the blueberry leaves.
• Then, let it steep for 10 minutes and then remove from the heat.
• After this time, enjoy as a tea, in a smoothie, or as your water for the day.
• Finally, try to avoid adding any type of sweetener.

What else is out there to treat type 2 diabetes?

In addition to the herbs and spices mentioned above, there are several appropriate treatment options for treating type 2 diabetes. According to the experts at the Mayo Clinic:

According to the American Diabetes Association, good living habits have a positive influence on the patients’ well-being. Therefore, they always recommend combining medical treatment with an adequate diet and regular exercise.