How Ginseng Can Help Diabetics

There are studies which found that ginseng are good for diabetics. The studies were done in United Kingdom, Canada and United States. So far, the researches conclude that ginseng, which have been used by Chinese people for many years, can also play a big role in Western medicine.

There are two new studies which suggest that the red ginseng herb may help normalize the levels of blood sugar in diabetic patients. In one study, patients with type 2 diabetes who consume pectin-like fiber with high viscous and ginseng have notable decrease in blood glucose levels as reported by Alexandra Jenkins, a candidate of PhD of University of Surrey, United Kingdom.

The study had 30 diabetic patients with whom medication taken helped them control blood sugar, but did not help in normalizing the glucose levels. The participants were given three times daily for 12 weeks, either capsules which contents were ginseng grown in North America or placebo.

After four weeks, the participants were switched. Those who received ginseng capsules took placebo and those who received placebo took ginseng. Blood samples taken after each break from diabetics showed that glucose levels of ginseng takers became more normal, but not during the time when they took placebo.

The herbal preparation appeared to be safe, with no adverse effects, but when beyond medication, it can be unsafe. Chinese people who apply ginseng to cure various ailments have been doing so for 5,000 years. Just like acupuncture, ginseng can have a role in Western medicine.

Korean ginseng

Another PhD candidate from University of Toronto, John L. Sievenpiper studied Korean ginseng’s role in improving insulin sensitivity, as compared to placebo. He said that ginseng appeared to aid the patient to process the insulin better.

Ginseng can be good especially for type 2 diabetics. Kaufman, head of Center for Diabetes at Children’s Hospital, Los Angeles said there is no doubt that natural herbs like ginseng can be effective in correcting the body’s defective reaction to insulin.

A research published in the Archives of Internal Medicine shows that one specie of ginseng at least may have therapeutic value. In the study of University of Toronto, having American ginseng before meals appear to cause significant reduction to blood sugar, diabetics or non-diabetics alike.