Introduction
Meshashringi is popularly known as 'Gudmar' in Hindi which means 'sugar destroyer'.
Meshashringi helps regulate sugar levels by promoting the secretion of insulin, regenerating pancreatic cells and increasing the activities of enzymes responsible for healthy glucose utilization.
Gurmar (Gudmar) is effective in managing Type II diabetes due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It prevents the pancreatic cells against damage caused by free radicals and increases insulin secretion thereby lowers the blood sugar level.
Meshashringi, commonly known as Periploca of the woods is a large woody climber vine seen through out India. The fruits of the plant resembles that of horns of goat and hence given the name. It is also known as Ajasringi due to the resemblance.
Gymnema sylvestre is a perennial woody vine native to Asia including the Arabian Peninsula, Africa and Australia. It has been used in Ayurvedic medicine. Common names include gymnema, Australian cowplant, and Periploca of the woods.
Its leaves have been used in the ancient Indian medicinal practice Ayurveda for thousands of years.
It has been a traditional remedy for various ailments, including diabetes, malaria and snakebites.
This herb is thought to inhibit sugar absorption and thus has become a popular study subject in Western medicine.
The leaves and extracts contain gymnemic acids, the major bioactive constituents that interact with taste receptors on the tongue to temporarily suppress the taste of sweetness.
Uses of Mesgsringi:
•Effects on sugar absorption and insulin secretion:
Gymnemic acid compounds in Gymnema sylvestre can also attach to receptors on the intestinal walls, helping to reduce absorption of sugar molecules in the gut.This process can lower blood sugar and promote insulin secretion and release.
•Reduction of sugar intake: G. sylvestre extracts taken in the form of lozenges, mouthwash, or tea diminishes the consumption of sweet foods and overall caloric intake. Extracts (formulated as a mint lozenge) reduced the desire for high-sugar foods and the pleasant taste of candy. Research also suggests that Gymnema sylvestre extracts reduce cravings for sugar. In a double-blind study, participants who received a gymnemic acid lozenge declined candy (before tasting it) more often than the placebo group.
•Weight loss: In Japan, 50 tons of G. sylvestre leaves are consumed annually for the purpose of weight loss.Early research suggests that taking a specific combination of Gymnema sylvestre extract, hydroxycitric acid, and niacin-bound chromium by mouth for 8 weeks might reduce body weight in people who are overweight or obese.
The herb helps prevent triglyceride accumulation in the muscles and liver and supports maintenance of healthy body weight.
•Traditional uses: In Eastern and Ayurvedic medicine, G. sylvestre leaves and extracts have been used to treat eye diseases, allergies, constipation, cough, dental caries, obesity, stomach ailments, and viral infections. G. sylvestre has also been used as an antioxidant, antimicrobial, and aphrodisiac(stimulating sexual desire).
Himalaya Meshashringi is a pure herb that helps lower blood sugar levels by preventing the intestine from absorbing sugar molecules.There are 60 tablets in a bottle.
Dose: One tablet each before meal.
Meshashringi(Gurmar) is also one of the Herbal ingredients in Patanjali Divya Madhunashini Vati. Divya madhunashini vati extra power solves complications from diabetes. Over time diabetes affects vision, immunity, strength in limbs and leads to skin disorders and weight problems. Take divya madhunashini vati extra power to control the onset of diabetes-related problems. Divya madhunashini vati extra power strengthens immunity, boosts your brain and nervous system, revitalizes energy and restores your health. Don't let diabetes bog you down from enjoying life. Take divya madhunashini vati extra power to experience the soothing effect of ayurvedic medicine prepared with extra care from the goodness of natural ingredients.
Dose for Adults: one or two tablets twice a day, one hour before breakfast and dinner alongside water or lukewarm milk or as suggested by the doctor.
Benifits of Mesgsringi:
(1) Gymnemic acids in Gymnema sylvestre can block the sugar receptors on your tongue, decreasing your ability to taste sweetness. This can lead to reduced sugar cravings.
(2)Gymnema sylvestre has anti-diabetic properties and may lower your blood sugar levels after a meal.
(3) Gymnema sylvestre appears to contribute to favorable insulin levels by increasing insulin production and regenerating insulin-secreting islet cells. Both can help lower blood sugar levels.
(4) Research supports that Gymnema can play a role in lowering “bad” LDL cholesterol and triglyceride levels, which can decrease your risk of heart disease.
(5) Gymnema sylvestre may play a role in weight loss and prevent weight gain. It may promote reduced calorie intake.
(6) The tannins and saponins in Gymnema have anti-inflammatory properties that help fight inflammation.
The possible side effects of Meshashringi:
This can cause side effects, such as headache, nausea, lightheadedness, shakiness and dizziness.
Information compiled by:
Dr. Bhairavsinh Raol
