Diabetes is a set of metabolic disorders that develop due to a deficiency of the insulin hormone or a disruption in its interaction with the body’s cells. These deviations lead to hyperglycemia, a persistent increase in blood glucose levels.
The disease is considered one of the most significant medical and social problems worldwide due to its widespread prevalence, severity of complications, and the high cost of diagnostics and treatment, which are necessary throughout a person’s life.
According to the International Diabetes Federation, over 285 million people worldwide are currently affected by diabetes. Experts predict that by 2030, this number will reach 435 million.
The treatment of diabetes aims to alleviate existing symptoms without addressing the root cause of the disease. Typically, therapy involves:
- Carbohydrate metabolism compensation
- Prevention and treatment of complications
- Normalization of body weight
- Patient education
To successfully compensate for carbohydrate metabolism, plant-based preparations are commonly used. They contribute to increasing the alkaline reserve and enhancing glucose utilization by tissues, thus reducing glycemia levels. Plant-based hypoglycemic agents are non-toxic, have minimal side effects, and do not accumulate in the body. Therefore, their use is possible throughout a person’s lifetime.
PLANTS FOR DIABETES
Tonic plant-based preparations such as ginseng, eleuthero, golden root, and zamaniha have a hypoglycemic effect. However, patients with arterial hypertension should take these preparations with caution, monitoring blood pressure.
Most commonly used for lowering blood sugar levels are:
- Common bilberry (decoction of leaves and berries)
- Wild strawberry
- Walnut leaves
- Burdock root
- Chicory root
- Elecampane root
- Field horsetail herb
- Dead nettle herb
- Dandelion root
- Black elderberry flowers
- Horsetail herb
- Bean pods
- Peppermint leaves
Bilberry leaves and berries contain inulin, which effectively deals with mild forms of diabetes. For diabetes treatment, bilberry shoots are used to prepare infusions, tea, and decoctions. Bilberry extract not only normalizes glucose levels but also maintains it within permissible limits for a certain period.
Wild strawberry fruits and leaves contain insulin-like and hormone-like substances in significant quantities. They normalize blood sugar levels and improve the overall well-being of diabetics.
Walnut leaf is often used in type II diabetes and in the early stages of the pathology. It contains vitamins C, B1, P; tannins, fatty acids, and phytoncides. Biologically active substances normalize blood glucose levels and neutralize vascular spasms.
Burdock root contains arctin and arctigenin glycosides, which have a beneficial effect on carbohydrate metabolism. Additionally, the plant contains the polysaccharide inulin, which regulates blood sugar concentration, reducing its levels.
Oman root is recommended for use in diabetes, as it contains bitterness that stimulates insulin production by the pancreas. A decoction from the root with 1 tablespoon of crushed raw material per cup of boiling water is taken three times a day before meals.
Daily consumption of chicory is advisable for both types of diabetes. The extract from this plant contains inulin polysaccharide, which helps maintain a stable glucose level, avoiding sharp fluctuations.
Nettle’s action is aimed not only at reducing blood glucose levels but also at supporting the normal functioning of organs affected by diabetes. Sodium in nettle leaves stimulates insulin production and actively participates in metabolic processes; magnesium enhances insulin secretion and its absorption by cells; vitamin PP regulates blood sugar levels; B vitamins, in combination with magnesium, improve insulin absorption and contribute to a reduction in the dose of hypoglycemic drugs.
Bean pods have a proven hypoglycemic effect. Their action involves protecting beta cells from destruction, stimulating insulin secretion, optimizing glucose transport to adipose and muscle tissues, and regulating the release of glucose from the liver.
An infusion of bean pods, flax seeds, and hawthorn fruits can help improve well-being and lower glucose levels. Mix 30 g of each ingredient in an enameled dish, pour 0.5 liters of boiling water, and let it infuse in warmth for 10 hours. Strain and take 100 ml three times a day before meals.
Peppermint, thanks to its complex of biologically active substances, also helps lower blood sugar levels.