This article is for informational purposes only. It is NOT intended to be used as a substitute for diagnoses of or treatment by a doctor for diabetes. The information is, however, interesting and very intriguing.

Those who practice Eastern medicine have known for about 5,000 years that herbs and spices could help heal human ailments (physical and emotional). Western medicine is only beginning to investigate this body of knowledge. Many prescription drugs that are available today are based upon synthetic reproduction of herbal remedies that have been around for several centuries.

Here are a few of the better-known herbal remedies that have been used for treating diabetes:

Fenugreek: Fenugreek seeds should be soaked overnight in a glass of water. The next morning, drink the water and chew the seeds. This has been proven helpful in controlling blood sugar.

Indian Kino, or Pitasara: This has long been used in India as a treatment for diabetes.

Aloe Vera: This is known as a “healing herb.” Dried aloe vera sap and gel is used traditionally to treat diabetes.

Cinnamon: Makes human fat cells more easily accessed by insulin. Cinnamon increases the conversion of glucose to energy.

Basil: Studies have shown the herb speeds up the insulin secretion process.

Onion and garlic: Onion and garlic can lower blood sugar levels significantly.

It is important to note that people with some heart disease who are taking a blood thinner like aspirin or Cumadin should avoid using garlic, ginger, ginkgo biloba, or ginseng. These herbs will thin the blood and can lead to increased bleeding.

Many other herbs and spices can be used to lower blood sugar. It is important to note that many of these herbs should not be used with certain prescription medications. For your own protection, you should always discuss any changes to diet or the addition of herbal supplements to your diet with your doctor.