Botanical Overview
Gymnema sylvestre belongs to the family Apocynaceae. It is native to India, Sri Lanka, and tropical Asia and is also found in parts of Africa. The primary part used medicinally is the leaf. Common names include Gymnema, Gymnema leaf, and Australian cowplant.
Energetics
Gymnema sylvestre is considered to have a neutral temperature and moisture energetics with a bitter taste. It is tonifying to qi and is generally regarded as neutral in directional qualities.
Primary Actions
- Anti-diabetic
- Hypoglycemic
- Sweetness blocker
- Anti-inflammatory
Indications
Western
- Elevated blood glucose levels
- Sugar cravings
- Acute inflammation
Syndromes
- Type 2 diabetes mellitus
- Metabolic syndrome
- Obesity
TCM
- Excessive thirst
- Sweet taste intolerance
Syndromes
- Xiao Ke (wasting-thirst syndrome, diabetes)
Ayurveda
- Excessive urination
- Sweet taste cravings
- Polydipsia
Syndromes
- Madhumeha (diabetes mellitus)
- Kapha imbalance
Unani
- Excessive thirst
- Frequent urination
Syndromes
- Zahab al sukkar (diabetes)
Constituents & Mechanisms
Phytochemical components of Gymnema sylvestre include gymnemic acids, triterpenoid saponins, flavonoids, glycosides, tannins, anthraquinones, and chlorophyll. Gymnemic acids are primarily responsible for its hypoglycemic effect and ability to block sweetness perception.
Dosage & Preparations
- Powdered leaf 250–500 mg 1-3 times daily
- Extract standardized to gymnemic acids 100–200 mg daily
- Tea/infusion from dried leaf (2–4 g) 1–2 times daily
Safety & Contraindications
Generally safe when used appropriately. Use with caution alongside other hypoglycemic medications to avoid additive blood sugar lowering effects. Not recommended during pregnancy or lactation due to limited safety data. Monitor blood glucose levels regularly during use. Mild gastrointestinal discomfort may occur at high doses.
Astrological Correspondences
No reliable traditional sources establish planetary or elemental rulers for Gymnema sylvestre.
Selected References
- Herbal Medicine: Biomolecular and Clinical Aspects. 2nd edition
- Plants Used in Indian Medicine: Gymnema sylvestre
- Gymnema sylvestre: A Memoir – Baskaran et al., 2015
- WHO Monographs on Selected Medicinal Plants, Vol. 3, 2007