Gymnema Sylvestre: Help control blood sugar • Blocks Sweet Tastes • Promotes Appetite Suppression • May Improve Blood Sugar Control • Easy to Swallow Capsules What is Gymnema Sylvestre? Gymnema Sylvestre is an Indian Herb recognised for centuries. Biovea uses a pure Gymnema Sylvestre extract (5:1), which is the most desirable form. Pullulan is a polysaccharide that provides synergistic enhancement of the qualities of Gymnema Sylvestre. A member of the milkweed family, Gymnema sylvestre is native to the tropical regions of India. Nicknamed the "sugar destroyer" because the leaves effectively block sweet tastes in the mouth when chewed, the herb is often promoted as an appetite suppressant and weight-loss agent. What does Gymnema Sylvestre do? Generations of people in India with diabetes have successfully chewed the leaves to help control blood sugar. Several small, placebo-controlled trials indicate that gymnema extracts may indeed lower blood sugar levels. In those with type 1 diabetes, gymnema seems to enhance the action of insulin. In one study, 27 people with type 1 diabetes who took gymnema leaf extracts for several months required less insulin to control their blood sugar levels. Animal studies also support this use; they indicate that gymnema can double the amount of insulin-producing cells in the pancreas, and return blood sugar levels to normal as a result. In the case of the far more prevalent type 2 diabetes--also known as noninsulin-dependent diabetes--research findings indicate that the use of gymnema may improve blood sugar control and result in the need for smaller doses of oral diabetes drugs to control the disease. However, it's critical that people with this disease don't abandon proven ways to manage it, from a healthy diet to regular exercise and medications when needed. Traditional Ayurvedic medicine uses gymnema to treat a variety of other disorders as well, including digestion problems, cough, constipation, and malaria. Animal studies indicate a possible role for gymnema in lowering cholesterol, triglycerides, and LDL ("bad") cholesterol. More research on this intriguing connection is needed.Are there any side effects I need to worry about when using Gymnema Sylvestre supplements? Gymnema Sylvestre is a herbal supplement and so, does not cause any unwarranted side effects on the body. However, prior consultation with a physician is required in the following instances. •If you are pregnant or are lactating. •If you are allergic to plants belonging to the milkweed family. •If you frequently experience blood sugar issues (both high and low blood sugar levels). •If you are already on other medications for high blood sugar levels (like insulin or oral hypoglycemic medications). •If you suffer from frequent bouts of diarrhea and lack of appetite. •If you are scheduled to undergo a surgery within the next two weeks.