Old Remedies for Lowering Blood Sugar: 10 Plants and Teas That Lower Blood Sugar

What is Blood Sugar and What is the Importance of Glycemic Homeostasis?

Blood sugar, or glycemia, represents the concentration of plasma glucose, a crucial metabolic parameter for the body’s energy homeostasis. Maintaining it within optimal physiological ranges is essential for the normal functioning of the central nervous system, cellular metabolism, and anabolic processes. Normal blood sugar levels are considered to be between 70-100 mg/dl in a fasting state and below 140 mg/dl two hours after a meal, according to international endocrinology and diabetology guidelines.

Glycemic homeostasis is maintained through a finely tuned endocrine balance, in which the endocrine pancreas, liver, muscles, and autonomic nervous system play essential roles. Beta cells in the pancreatic islets of Langerhans secrete insulin in response to hyperglycemia, facilitating glucose uptake at the cellular level, particularly in muscle and adipose tissue, and inhibiting hepatic gluconeogenesis. Conversely, alpha cells in the pancreas release glucagon, a hyperglycemic hormone, which stimulates hepatic glycogenolysis and gluconeogenesis in situations of hypoglycemia.

In addition to these primary hormones, blood sugar regulation also involves other metabolic mediators such as adrenaline, cortisol, and growth hormone, which contribute to counter-regulating hypoglycemia under physiological or metabolic stress. The sympathetic nervous system can also influence blood sugar levels by regulating insulin secretion and modulating hepatic glucose metabolism.

The Importance of Glycemic Balance for Cellular Health and Brain Function

Therefore, adequate glycemic balance is fundamental for maintaining cellular functions and preventing metabolic dysfunctions. The brain, which relies exclusively on glucose as its energy source, is particularly vulnerable to extreme glycemic fluctuations. Hypoglycemia can cause neuroglycopenic symptoms such as confusion, dizziness, impaired concentration, seizures, or even coma, while prolonged hyperglycemia is a major risk factor for vascular complications, diabetic neuropathy, nephropathy, and retinal damage.

Chronic glycemic imbalances can promote the development of type 2 diabetes mellitus, a progressive metabolic disorder characterized by insulin resistance and impaired pancreatic insulin secretion. This condition can have a major impact on quality of life and increase cardiovascular risk, being associated with hypertension, dyslipidemia, and accelerated atherosclerosis.

To prevent complications associated with chronic hyperglycemia or recurrent hypoglycemia, blood sugar monitoring is essential, especially for individuals with metabolic risk factors. Adopting a balanced lifestyle, based on a low glycemic index diet, regular physical activity, and stress management, can contribute to maintaining insulin sensitivity and reducing the risk of significant glycemic fluctuations.

 

[cta_produs style=”style_1″ product=”200804″ image=”https://aronia-charlottenburg.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Ce-reprezinta-glicemia-si-care-este-importanta-homeostaziei-glicemice_-Aronia-Gluco-Diabet-Formula.jpg”]

 

Furthermore, certain phytotherapeutic and nutraceutical interventions can support metabolic health, providing natural support in managing blood sugar levels and improving insulin sensitivity. For example, Premium Gluco-Diabet Formula contains standardized extracts with a hypoglycemic effect that can contribute to blood sugar stabilization within an integrated metabolic management strategy.

 

10 Plants That Lower Blood Sugar

Blood sugar control through natural methods is an area of interest in both traditional medicine and recent research on bioactive compounds with hypoglycemic effects. Certain medicinal plants contain bioactive substances capable of improving insulin sensitivity, modulating carbohydrate absorption, and stimulating insulin secretion, thus offering complementary metabolic support to conventional therapeutic strategies.

1. White Mulberry Leaves (Morus alba)

Mulberry leaves contain 1-deoxynojirimycin (DNJ), a competitive inhibitor of α-glucosidase and α-amylase enzymes, which slows glucose absorption in the intestines. This mechanism helps prevent postprandial hyperglycemia, an important factor in managing type 2 diabetes. Consuming mulberry leaf tea or standardized extract can reduce postprandial glycemic spikes, serving as a natural alternative for optimizing carbohydrate metabolism.

2. Gymnema sylvestre

This medicinal plant, traditionally used in Ayurveda, contains gymnemic acid, a compound capable of reducing the perception of sweet taste by blocking specific receptors on the tongue. In addition to this effect, Gymnema sylvestre can stimulate the regeneration of pancreatic beta cells and increase endogenous insulin secretion, thereby reducing the exogenous requirement in patients with type 2 diabetes. Administration of standardized extracts has been shown to be effective in lowering glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), an essential marker of long-term glycemic control.

3. Cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum)

Cinnamon contains methylhydroxychalcone polymers, bioactive substances capable of mimicking insulin’s effects by increasing glucose transport into cells and decreasing insulin resistance. Cinnamon also inhibits digestive enzymes responsible for carbohydrate breakdown, which reduces glucose absorption and stabilizes blood sugar levels. Clinical studies indicate that administering 1-6 g/day of cinnamon can reduce blood sugar by up to 29%, also having beneficial effects on lipid profile.

4. Nettle (Urtica dioica)

Nettle leaf extracts contain phenolic and flavonoid compounds that can stimulate insulin secretion from the pancreas and improve glucose uptake in peripheral tissues. Experimental studies suggest that regular consumption of nettle tea can help reduce basal and postprandial blood sugar, being particularly useful in managing early-stage diabetes.

5. American Ginseng (Panax quinquefolius)

Ginsenosides, the main active compounds of American ginseng, exert beneficial effects on glucose metabolism by increasing insulin sensitivity and stimulating pancreatic beta cell function. Ginseng can also modulate the activity of enzymes involved in gluconeogenesis, reducing hepatic glucose production. Its administration in standardized extract form can contribute to lowering fasting blood sugar, making it a promising phytotherapeutic option in the management of metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes.

6. Berberine (Berberis vulgaris)

Berberine, an alkaloid extracted from Berberis vulgaris (barberry), is recognized for its effects on glycemic homeostasis. It activates the AMPK enzyme (AMP-activated protein kinase), a key regulator of energy metabolism—similar to the effect of metformin, a first-line antidiabetic drug. Berberine helps reduce hepatic glucose production (gluconeogenesis), improve peripheral glucose uptake, and reduce systemic inflammation, making it a potential therapeutic agent in metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes.

7. Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum)

Fenugreek seeds are rich in galactomannans, a type of soluble fiber that forms a viscous gel in the intestine, slowing down carbohydrate absorption and thus reducing postprandial blood sugar. Fenugreek also contains active compounds such as 4-hydroxyisoleucine, which stimulates glucose-dependent insulin secretion, thereby preventing hypoglycemia episodes. Its administration in powder form added to food or as an infusion prepared from ground seeds can bring significant benefits in long-term glycemic control.

8. Aloe vera (Aloe barbadensis)

Aloe vera is primarily known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, but recent studies suggest it may also have beneficial effects in regulating blood sugar. Polysaccharides and anthraquinone compounds in aloe vera gel can stimulate pancreatic beta cell regeneration, increase insulin secretion, and reduce oxidative stress associated with diabetes. Consuming aloe vera juice or standardized extracts can help improve hyperglycemia and protect organs affected by diabetes complications.

9. Holy Basil (Ocimum sanctum)

Holy basil, also known as Tulsi, is widely used in Ayurvedic medicine for its adaptogenic and immunomodulatory effects. Its leaves contain ursolic acid and eugenol, compounds that can improve insulin sensitivity, reduce systemic inflammation, and protect blood vessels from oxidative stress induced by hyperglycemia. Drinking holy basil leaf tea can support glycemic homeostasis and prevent cardiovascular complications associated with diabetes.

10. Milk Thistle (Silybum marianum)

Milk thistle is primarily known for its hepatoprotective effects, but silymarin, its main active compound, has also proven beneficial in regulating glucose metabolism. It reduces insulin resistance by improving insulin signaling in the liver, thereby reducing excessive glucose synthesis in the liver. Furthermore, silymarin’s antioxidant properties protect the pancreas from oxidative stress, helping to maintain pancreatic beta cell function.

To summarize the information presented above, these phytotherapeutic remedies offer a complementary natural alternative for patients with hyperglycemia and insulin resistance, but their use must be individualized and adapted to each patient’s metabolic context. Before incorporating them into their daily routine, it is essential to monitor blood sugar levels and consult a specialist, especially for individuals undergoing hypoglycemic treatment, as their combination with antidiabetic medications can lead to severe hypoglycemia.

Photo credit: Shutterstock.com

Preparation and Administration Protocol for Hypoglycemic Infusions

The use of phytotherapy in managing hyperglycemia requires adherence to precise extraction and administration methods to maximize the bioavailability of active compounds. To achieve optimal therapeutic benefits, infusions from plants with hypoglycemic effects must be prepared and administered correctly, considering the sensitivity of certain bioactive substances to temperature and extraction duration.

Preparing Infusions

To achieve an optimal concentration of active substances, a standardized dose is recommended:

• 1-2 teaspoons of dried herb or
• 2-3 teaspoons of fresh herb per 250 ml of water.

Water should be heated to boiling point but allowed to cool slightly for 1-2 minutes before being poured over the herbs. This method prevents the degradation of thermolabile compounds, such as flavonoids and polyphenols, which can be sensitive to very high temperatures.

The infusion duration varies depending on the plant part used:

• 5-10 minutes for leaves and flowers (e.g., mulberry leaves, Gymnema sylvestre, holy basil);
• 10-15 minutes for roots and bark (e.g., cinnamon, ginseng root, milk thistle).

After the extraction process is complete, the infusion should be strained through a fine sieve or tea filter to remove plant debris, ensuring proper administration and preventing excessive ingestion of plant particles that could interfere with digestion.

Administering Infusions

To maximize the impact on glucose metabolism, infusions should be consumed in a fractionated regimen, adapted to the glycemic rhythm:

• 2-3 cups per day, preferably between meals, to prevent sudden blood sugar fluctuations.
• One cup administered 30 minutes before main meals activates mechanisms to reduce glucose absorption, optimizing the postprandial metabolic response.

On the other hand, administration in courses of 4-6 weeks, followed by a 1-2 week break, is recommended to prevent tolerance development and allow for re-evaluation of effects on glycemic homeostasis.

For a personalized approach and to balance various metabolic mechanisms, one can alternate between different types of infusions throughout the week, as follows:

• Mondays and Thursdays – Mulberry leaf tea (modulator of intestinal glucose absorption);
• Tuesdays and Fridays – Gymnema sylvestre infusion (stimulant of insulin secretion);
• Wednesdays and Saturdays – Cinnamon tea (enhancer of insulin sensitivity).

This strategy allows for variable exposure to bioactive compounds, preventing desensitization of metabolic receptors and providing a synergistic effect on carbohydrate metabolism.

Last but not least, rigorous monitoring of blood sugar levels during the administration of infusions is essential, especially for patients with diabetes or metabolic syndrome. Plants with hypoglycemic effects can interact with antidiabetic medication, potentiating its effect and increasing the risk of severe hypoglycemia.

Consequently, any change in the phytotherapeutic regimen must be discussed with the treating physician, and adjustments to antidiabetic medication doses should be made under medical supervision to avoid dangerous blood sugar fluctuations.

Foods and Natural Supplements for Blood Sugar Control

Complementing phytotherapy and the use of hypoglycemic infusions, the integration of functional foods and natural supplements into the diet can be an essential adjunctive strategy in managing glycemic homeostasis. An integrative approach, supported by a balanced diet and optimized lifestyle, contributes to improving insulin resistance, reducing postprandial glycemic spikes, and preventing metabolic complications associated with diabetes or chronic hyperglycemia.

Regular consumption of low glycemic index (low GI) foods plays a fundamental role in preventing glycemic fluctuations and optimizing carbohydrate metabolism. These foods are characterized by a slow digestion and absorption rate, leading to a gradual release of glucose into circulation, thus avoiding postprandial hyperglycemia. Among the most recommended low GI foods are legumes (lentils, beans, chickpeas), whole grains (oats, quinoa, barley), fruits with low fructose content (apples, pears, cherries), and non-starchy vegetables (broccoli, cauliflower, spinach). By including these in the daily diet, more effective blood sugar stabilization and improved insulin sensitivity can be achieved, which are essential aspects in the prevention and control of metabolic disorders.

Soluble Fiber – Role in Blood Sugar Control

In addition to glycemic index, soluble fiber intake directly impacts the modulation of glucose absorption and the improvement of postprandial metabolic response. Soluble fibers form a viscous gel in the intestine, which slows gastric emptying and carbohydrate absorption, thus contributing to the reduction of postprandial hyperglycemia. Important dietary sources include flax and chia seeds, avocado, apples and pears with peel, oats, and oat bran, all having a beneficial role in maintaining glycemic homeostasis, as well as in supporting cardiovascular health and the gut microbiome.

By integrating functional foods into the daily diet and using natural hypoglycemic supplements in a controlled manner, a comprehensive nutritional strategy can be created to optimize carbohydrate metabolism and reduce the risks associated with metabolic dysfunction.

Non-Pharmacological Therapeutic Interventions in Hyperglycemia Management: Lifestyle Optimization

Optimizing lifestyle is a fundamental component in managing hyperglycemia, playing a synergistic role with pharmacological interventions and nutritional strategies. Well-structured behavioral modifications can significantly influence insulin sensitivity, glucose metabolism, and the prevention of complications associated with chronic hyperglycemia, contributing to optimal glycemic control and improved overall metabolic health.

Regular physical activity is one of the most effective factors in reducing hyperglycemia and improving glycemic homeostasis. Aerobic exercises, such as brisk walking, swimming, and cycling, performed for at least 30 minutes a day, 5 times a week, increase peripheral glucose uptake through insulin-independent mechanisms and reduce insulin resistance in muscle and liver tissues. Additionally, physical activity stimulates the expression of glucose transporters (GLUT-4) in muscle cells, facilitating efficient utilization of blood glucose.

Photo credit: Shutterstock.com

To maximize additional metabolic benefits, it is recommended to include resistance training, such as exercises with weights or elastic bands, performed 2-3 times a week. Increased muscle mass leads to an increase in basal metabolic rate and a long-term improvement in insulin sensitivity, providing protection against metabolic dysfunction associated with type 2 diabetes.

Stress Management – Impact on Blood Sugar

Stress management is essential in preventing hyperglycemia induced by excessive release of stress hormones, such as cortisol and adrenaline, which stimulate hepatic gluconeogenesis and reduce insulin efficacy.

Sleep quality is another major determinant of metabolic balance, influencing insulin secretion and sensitivity. Chronic sleep deprivation (less than 6 hours/night) is associated with increased sympathetic nervous system activity, elevated morning cortisol levels, and reduced nocturnal insulin secretion, which promotes fasting hyperglycemia. To maintain a stable circadian rhythm, 7-9 hours of sleep per night are recommended, with adherence to a regular bedtime and wake-up schedule, optimizing the sleep environment, and avoiding exposure to blue light from screens before bedtime.

Therefore, consistent implementation of these non-pharmacological interventions, alongside individualized nutritional strategies and adjunctive phytotherapy, offers an integrated approach to hyperglycemia management, contributing to the prevention of diabetic complications and the optimization of long-term metabolic health.

 

Glycemic Monitoring and Integrative Approach through Complementary Therapies

Photo credit: Shutterstock.com

Advanced blood sugar monitoring is a fundamental element in the optimized management of diabetes mellitus, allowing for personalized therapeutic intervention based on real-time analysis of glycemic fluctuations. Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) systems provide a dynamic assessment of blood sugar levels throughout the day and night, facilitating the anticipation and prevention of hyperglycemia and hypoglycemia episodes. Essentially, these devices use minimally invasive sensors implanted subcutaneously, which provide glycemic readings at regular intervals, offering real-time alerts for critical values, thus contributing to the optimization of therapeutic strategies and the reduction of glycemic variability.

The integration of mobile blood sugar monitoring applications allows for the correlation of glycemic data with lifestyle parameters such as diet, physical activity, and stress. These digital platforms utilize glycemic trend analysis algorithms, generating detailed reports that can be shared with the medical team, thus facilitating personalized treatment adjustments and identification of individual factors influencing glucose metabolism.

Another valuable tool in advanced diabetes monitoring is represented by portable devices for measuring HbA1c, which allow for autonomous assessment of glycated hemoglobin – an essential marker of long-term glycemic control. By using these devices at home, patients can gain an objective perspective on the effectiveness of their treatment and lifestyle changes, reducing the need for frequent laboratory visits and allowing for early intervention in case of significant deviations in HbA1c values.

Complementary Therapies – Role in Insulin Sensitivity

In the context of an integrative approach, complementary therapies can represent effective adjunctive strategies for improving insulin sensitivity and reducing metabolic stress. Acupuncture, by influencing the autonomic nervous system and hormonal secretion, can contribute to modulating glucose metabolism, reducing systemic inflammation, and improving insulin response.

Thus, a multidimensional approach, combining advanced monitoring technologies with complementary therapies and phytotherapeutic interventions, offers a holistic and individually tailored model for diabetes mellitus management. The integration of these methods with conventional medical treatment can lead to optimized glycemic control, reduced metabolic risks, and improved quality of life for patients.

Scientific Studies Supporting the Effectiveness of Traditional Remedies for Lowering Blood Sugar

Contemporary scientific research has validated the hypoglycemic effects of many plants traditionally used in the management of diabetes mellitus. This research provides a biochemical and pharmacological basis for their use in medical practice. In other words, recent clinical studies and meta-analyses confirm that certain plant extracts can modulate insulin sensitivity, reduce hepatic gluconeogenesis, and improve peripheral glucose utilization, thus complementing conventional pharmacological treatments.

A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology in 2020 demonstrated that daily administration of Gymnema sylvestre extract for 12 weeks led to a significant reduction in glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) and fasting blood glucose in patients with type 2 diabetes. The average reduction in HbA1c in the treated group was 1.2%, compared to 0.3% in the placebo group, indicating a clinically relevant hypoglycemic effect. This effect can be attributed to gymnemic acid, an active compound that inhibits intestinal glucose absorption and stimulates pancreatic beta cell regeneration.

Furthermore, a systematic meta-analysis published in the Annals of Family Medicine in 2019, which evaluated 16 randomized clinical trials, analyzed the impact of cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum) supplementation on glucose metabolism. The conclusions indicated an average reduction in fasting blood glucose of 19.26 mg/dL in type 2 diabetic patients who consumed cinnamon compared to control groups. The polyphenolic compounds and methylhydroxychalcones in cinnamon contribute to improved insulin sensitivity, facilitate glucose uptake at the cellular level, and inhibit enzymes involved in carbohydrate digestion.

Mulberry Leaves – Effects on Postprandial Blood Sugar

In another clinical study published in the Journal of Medicinal Food in 2018, the effect of white mulberry leaves (Morus alba) on postprandial blood sugar was investigated. Participants who received standardized mulberry leaf extract showed a significant reduction in blood sugar 90 minutes after meals compared to the placebo group. This effect is attributed to the presence of 1-deoxynojirimycin (DNJ), a competitive inhibitor of α-glucosidase enzymes, which slows down the digestion of polysaccharides and glucose absorption in the intestine, thereby preventing postprandial hyperglycemia.

These findings, corroborated by other clinical studies, provide solid evidence of the efficacy of phytotherapeutic remedies in regulating glycemic homeostasis. Integrating these plants into individualized therapeutic strategies, under appropriate medical supervision, can represent a viable adjuvant option for optimizing type 2 diabetes treatment, contributing to a reduced reliance on medications and aiding in the prevention of metabolic complications.

Precautions and Contraindications in Using Natural Remedies

Although the use of natural remedies can contribute to regulating glycemic homeostasis and serve as a valuable adjuvant in diabetes management, it is essential to consider potential risks, contraindications, and pharmacological interactions. The safety and efficacy of these phytotherapeutic treatments can be influenced by individual metabolic status, pre-existing comorbidities, and concurrent medication regimens, requiring careful evaluation before administration.

Interactions between medicinal plants and hypoglycemic medications can either amplify or reduce their therapeutic effects. For example, Gymnema sylvestre, known for its insulin sensitivity-enhancing properties, can have a synergistic effect with biguanide medications like metformin, increasing the risk of severe hypoglycemia. Similarly, cinnamon and berberine, through mechanisms of hepatic gluconeogenesis inhibition, can potentiate the effects of oral antidiabetic drugs and insulin, necessitating dose adjustments under medical supervision.

Certain pre-existing conditions may contraindicate the use of natural supplements due to the risk of toxic accumulation or adverse reactions. Patients with chronic kidney failure should avoid supplements containing chromium, magnesium, or ginseng, as these substances can affect electrolyte balance and potentially overload kidney function. In cases of liver disease, plants such as fenugreek, aloe vera, or milk thistle may exert a hepatotoxic effect at high doses or with prolonged administration, requiring monitoring of liver enzymes and risk assessment.

Natural Remedies – Precautions During Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Pregnant or breastfeeding women should exercise increased caution when using natural remedies. Data on the safety of many medicinal plants during these periods are limited. Bioactive substances in certain plants, such as Gymnema sylvestre, wormwood, or sage, may have uterotrophic effects and can influence fetal glucose metabolism, necessitating their avoidance without medical advice.

Furthermore, the quality of herbal supplements can vary significantly depending on sourcing, processing methods, and active extract concentrations. Contamination with heavy metals, pesticides, or fungal toxins is a major risk, particularly for products of uncertain origin. Therefore, it is recommended to purchase only from certified manufacturers with guaranteed quality standards.

Consequently, the use of natural remedies in managing hyperglycemia should be approached in an informed and cautious manner, under specialist supervision, to maximize therapeutic benefits and minimize potential risks. A well-documented therapeutic strategy based on constant monitoring and personalized adjustments is important to facilitate optimal integration of these remedies into the overall treatment plan, contributing to effective glycemic control and prevention of metabolic complications.

The Importance of a Holistic Approach in Managing Blood Sugar Control

A holistic approach to diabetes management integrates the physiological, nutritional, psychological, and behavioral dimensions of metabolic health, with the primary goal of optimizing glycemic control and reducing the risk of long-term complications. This integrative perspective not only addresses the symptomatic treatment of hyperglycemia but also aims to restore metabolic balance through personalized interventions tailored to each patient’s needs.

The synergy between natural therapies, lifestyle modifications, and pharmacological treatments allows for more effective diabetes management, offering complementary strategies that target both blood sugar control and the improvement of overall metabolic function. Through a balanced combination of evidence-based phytotherapy, personalized nutrition, and regular physical activity, patients can benefit from superior glycemic management, positively impacting insulin sensitivity, lipid metabolism, and energy homeostasis.

The integration of advanced glycemic monitoring, through CGM (Continuous Glucose Monitoring) devices and frequent HbA1c testing, ensures continuous evaluation of glycemic fluctuations and enables proactive therapeutic adjustments.

Holistic Approach – Collaboration with the Medical Team

A crucial aspect of the holistic approach is close collaboration between the patient and a multidisciplinary medical team, including the diabetologist, nutritionist, physical therapist, and complementary therapy specialist. Open and transparent communication regarding all utilized strategies is important for optimal treatment coordination and prevention of potentially harmful interactions between natural and conventional therapies.

In summary, the holistic approach represents a personalized and adaptable care model focused not only on glycemic control but also on improving overall quality of life. By implementing an integrative therapeutic plan, patients can achieve a stable metabolic state, reduce their dependence on medications, and benefit from effective prevention of diabetic complications, contributing to optimal health and active longevity.

In conclusion, diabetes management requires a multidimensional approach that combines pharmacological interventions, nutritional strategies, physical activity, advanced glycemic monitoring, and complementary therapies. The integration of evidence-based phytotherapy, lifestyle optimization, and reduction of metabolic risk factors can contribute to improved insulin sensitivity, reduced glycemic variability, and prevention of long-term complications. Most importantly, close collaboration between the patient and the medical team is essential for individualizing treatment and ensuring the safety, efficacy, and sustainability of therapeutic strategies.

References:

1. Tiwari P, Ahmad K, Baig MH. Gymnema sylvestre for Diabetes: From Traditional Herb to Modern Medicine. Curr Diabetes Rev. 2017;13(4):355-369. DOI: 10.2174/1573399813666170310113301;

2. Allen RW, Schwartzman E, Baker WL, Coleman CI, Phung OJ. Cinnamon use in type 2 diabetes: an updated systematic review and meta-analysis. Ann Fam Med. 2013 Sep-Oct;11(5):452-9. DOI: 10.1370/afm.1517;

3. Ríos JL, Francini F, Schinella GR. Natural Products for the Treatment of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus. Planta Med. 2015 Aug;81(12-13):975-94. DOI: 10.1055/s-0035-1546131;

4. Mudra M, Ercan-Fang N, Zhong L, Furne J, Levitt M. Influence of mulberry leaf extract on the blood glucose and breath hydrogen response to ingestion of 75 g sucrose by type 2 diabetic and control subjects. Diabetes Care. 2007 May;30(5):1272-4. DOI: 10.2337/dc06-2120;

5. Luo JZ, Luo L. Ginseng on Hyperglycemia: Effects and Mechanisms. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2009 Dec;6(4):423-7. DOI: 10.1093/ecam/nem178.

Photo credit: Shutterstock.com