Diabetes

I could not find any information about the use of Stevia in the treatment of diabetes. It is purported to be as much as ten times sweeter than sugar and is used as a sweetener in many other countries, though not "approved" for this use in the U.S. The use of Stevia for diabetics may simply be as a sugar substitute. In one of my books (The Natural Pharmacy, by Skye Lininger, et. al.), I found information about Gymnema and Asian Ginseng for diabetes treatment. Both are proven to enhance pancreatic function (release of insulin) and directly lower blood sugar. I have other books that speak of this herb or that vitamin/mineral supplement for treatment, but no mention of stevia in that respect.

In regards to the treatment of Diabetes:

Gymnema assists the pancreas in the production of insulin in NIDDM (non-insulin dependent diabetes, or type II). Gymnema also improves the ability of insulin to lower blood sugar in both IDDM (insulin dependent diabetes, or type I) and NIDDM. This herb can be an excellent substitute for oral blood sugar-lowering drugs in NIDDM. Some people take 400 mg per day of gymnema extract.

Asian ginseng is commonly used in traditional Chinese medicine to treat diabetes. It has been shown to enhance the release of insulin from the pancreas and to increase the number of insulin receptors. It also has a direct blood sugar-lowering effect. A recent study found that 200 mg of ginseng extract per day improved blood sugar control as well as energy levels in NIDDM.

The above is quoted from page 43 The Natural Pharmacy by Skye Lininger, D.C., ed., Jonathan Wright, M.D., Steve Austin, N.D., Donald Brown, N.D., and Alan Gaby, M.D. copyright 1998 by Virtual Health, LLC and published by Prima Publishing. ISBN 0-7615-1227-6 There is also a cautionary statement about the use of Gymnema as an insulin replacement. (Don't do it.)

Offered by Roger.

Here is a reference to Edgar Cayce's use of the Jerusalem Artichoke for diabetics.

Offered by Toni.