Is Gymnema Safe?
Gymnema (also referred to as Gymnema Sylvestre) is a plant that's known for its healing properties. It's been in Ayurveda practices for centuries and has recently gained popularity in the United States and Europe. Gymnema's primary usage is to support treatments such as diabetes mellitus and associated hypo/hyperglycemic disorders. There is not enough clinical research regarding both the effectiveness and safety of Gymnema. However, a number of adverse side effects have been linked with its usage.
Warning
Gymnema is promoted as a supplement for existing treatments (diabetic and hypo/hyperglycemic disorders); it isn't intended as a replacement for any insulin or oral diabetes medications.
Significance
Gymnema works to reduce blood sugar levels and can magnify the potency of the medication(s) that you are already on.
Effects
This can result in your blood sugar levels becoming too low and potentially causing a hypoglycemic reaction.
Symptoms
If Gymnema decreases your blood sugar levels to a certain degree, you may experience symptoms of weakness, instability, exhaustion and confusion. Additional side effects of the herb include gastrointestinal disturbances like nausea, cramping and vomiting.
Dosages and Safety
While in-depth studies have not been performed, Gymnema is considered to be relatively safe if used in proper dosages; recommended dosages generally range between 400 and 600 mg daily.
Precautions
The safety of Gymnema has not been established for children, women who are pregnant or breastfeeding and those with pre-existing medical conditions; especially kidney or liver disease. It also can adversely affect the effectiveness of drugs such as Actos, Avandia, Glimepiride, Glyset, Metformin, Prandin and Precose. For these reasons, medical supervision is vital.
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