Herbs for Diabetes

Herbs for Diabetes

Since antiquity, diabetes has been treated with plant medicines. Recent scientific investigation has confirmed the efficacy of many of these preparations, some of which have been remarkably very effective.

Pterocarpus marsupium

(Indian Kino, Malabar Kino, Pitasara, Venga)

The gum-resin from the Indian Kino has been a mainstay in Indian medicine and remains popular in India as a treatment for diabetes. Extracts from Kino have uniquely been shown to regenerate functional pancreatic beta cells.

Regenerating Pancreatic Beta Cells?

Regenerating Pancreatic Beta Cells?

While researching this topic, I came across a plant unknown to me. Diabetics depend on modern science to control their disease, but it seems that traditional medicine may be a step ahead.

The Indian Kino tree is the source of an effective treatment for diabetics. Herbal extracts from it have a long history of use in India as a treatment for diabetes. The flavonoid, epicatechin, extracted from the bark of this tree has been shown to prevent pancreatic beta cell damage in rats. No other herbal concoction has been shown to prevent beta cell damage and even regenerate damaged beta cells in diabetics. The heart wood is prepared as an astringent to treat

 http://www.phcogrev.com/article.asp?issn=0973-7847;year=2009;volume=3;issue=6;spage=359;epage=363;aulast=Devgun

Effect of feeding aqueous extract of Pterocarpus marsupium on glycogen content of tissues and the key enzymes of carbohydrate metabolism

Effect of feeding aqueous extract of Pterocarpus marsupium on glycogen content of tissues and the key enzymes of carbohydrate metabolism

Journal	Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry
Publisher	Springer Netherlands
ISSN	0300-8177 (Print) 1573-4919 (Online)
Issue	Volume 241, Numbers 1-2 / December, 2002
DOI	10.1023/A:1020870526014
Pages	53-59
Subject Collection	Biomedical and Life Sciences
SpringerLink Date	Sunday, October 31, 2004

J.K. Grover¹ , Vikrant Vats¹ and Satayapal Yadav¹

(1)	Department of Pharmacology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Ansari Nagar, New Delhi, India

Abstract  The Indian traditional system of medicine prescribed plant therapies for diseases including diabetes mellitus called madhumeh in Sanskrit. One such plant mentioned in Ayurveda is Pterocarpus marsupium (PM). In the present study, aqueous extract of PM (1 g/kg PO) was assessed for its effect on glycogen levels of insulin dependent (skeletal muscle and liver), insulin-independent tissues (kidneys and brain) and enzymes such as glucokinase (GK), hexokinase (HK), and phosphofructokinase (PFK). Administration of PM led to decrease in blood glucose levels by 38 and 60% on 15th and 30th day of the experiment. Liver and 2-kidney weight expressed as percentage of body-weight was significantly increased in diabetics (p < 0.0005) vs. normal controls and this alteration in the renal weight (p < 0.0005) but not liver weight was normalized by feeding of PM extract. Renal glycogen content increased by over 10 fold while hepatic and skeletal muscle glycogen content decreased by 75 and 68% in diabetic controls vs. controls and these alteration in glycogen content was partly prevented by PM. Activity of HK, GK and PFK in diabetic controls was 35, 50 and 60% of the controls and PM completely corrected this alteration in PFK and only partly in HK and GK.

Pterocarpus marsupium (PM) - Vijayasar - Indian Kino - Ayurveda - streptozotocin - experimental diabetes

HOPE FOR DIABETICS

Indian Kino Tree

Indian Kino
Conservation status
Vulnerable (IUCN)
Scientific classification
Kingdom: Plantae Division: Magnoliophyta Class: Magnoliopsida Order: Fabales Family: Fabaceae Genus: Pterocarpus Species: P. marsupium
Binomial name
Pterocarpus marsupium Roxburgh

The Indian Kino Tree (Pterocarpus marsupium), also known as the Malabar Kino, Benga (or Venkai) is native to India. The Indian Kino is inhabit parts of the Western Ghats in theKarnataka-Kerala region.

Parts of the Indian Kino (heart wood, leaves, flowers) have long been used for their medicinal properties in Ayurveda. The heart wood is used as an astringent and in the treatment ofinflammation and diabetes.

The Indian Kino is a medium to large, decidioustree and can grow up to 30 meters tall.

Gammalu Aratu (Ayurvedic name): The bark of this plant is used as an astringent and for toothaches. The water extract of the bark contains an active principle, epicatechin which increases the CAMP content of the islets which is associated with the increased insulin release, conversion of pro-insulin to insulin and cathepsin B activity.

It turns the water blue as soon as it comes in contact with the water. It's also told that it is good for elephantiasis, leucoderma, diarrhoea, dysentery, rectalgia, cough and greyness of hair.

• World Conservation Monitoring Centre (1998). Pterocarpus marsupium. 2006IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. IUCN 2006. Retrieved on 11 May 2006. Listed as Vulnerable (VU A1cd v2.3)

Pterocarpus Marsupium - Indian Kino -Trials

Pterocarpus Marsupium - Indian Kino -Trials

http://wikidiabetes.blogspot.com/2009/01/pterocarpus-marsupium-indian-kino.html

Pterocarpus marsupium also demonstrates some very unique features, which include beta cell protective and regenerative properties as well as blood glucose lowering activity. These effects have been reproduced in numerous animal and human trials for over half a century. The majority of the animal studies use several different types of test species that have been make diabetic by the use of selected toxins and then given various extracts of Pterocarpus marsupium. In all of these studies Pterocarpus marsupium was able to reverse the damage to the beta cells and actually repopulate the islets.[i], [ii], [iii], [iv], [v], [vi] This also caused the almost complete restoration of normal insulin secretion

PLANT INSULIN

Pterocarpus Marsupium Extract - Indian kino

Active Ingredient : Pterostilbene 4%, Pterostilbene 5%, Alkaloids 0.4%, Tannins 5% Common Name : Indian Kino, Gummy Kino, Marsupium Chemical Constituents and Components : Main chemical components are liquiritigenin, isoliquiritigenin, pterosupin, epicatechin, pterostilbene, kinotannic acid, beta-eudesmol, marsupol, carpusin, marsupinol, kinoin and kino-red. Action :  Pterostilbene: 1. It lowers the lipid and glucose level in body. 2. It shows significant reduction of glycosylated hemoglobin and an increase in total hemoglobin level. 3. It inhibits cell proliferation and induces apototic effect in tumor cell lines. 4. It shows moderate inhibition of cyclooxygenase (COX)-1 and weakly active against COX-2, thus shows potent antioxidant activity. 5. It inhibits electrolyte leakage caused by herbicide-induced oxidative damage. Alkaloids: 1. It significantly lowers the high blood sugar level in body. Tannins: 1. It shows scavenging activity against mitochondrial lipid peroxidation. 2. It causes significant decrease in cholesterol level. 3. It shows antimicrobial activity against bacteria and virus.Curing Diseases :  1. It is useful in diabetes and heart problems. 2. It is helpful in controlling skin diseases. 3. It is also beneficial in the treatment of fractures, bruises, leprosy, leucoderma, constipation, depurative, rectalgia, ophthalmopathy, hemorrhages and rheumatoid arthritis.Research Information :  Pterocarpus marsupium shows strong antihyperlipdemic activity. It causes significant reduction of serum triglyceride, total cholesterol and LDL and VLDL cholesterol levels without any effect on the level of HDL-cholesterol. (Ref. Jahromi, M.A. and Ray, A.B., Antihyperlipidemic effect of flavonoids from Pterocarpus marsupium, J Nat Prod. 1993 Jul; 56 (7): 989-994)

Nutritional and Best Foods Selection for a Proper Diet...

There are different food types that we can add to our diet, their effects and how do they function : 

1. Wholegrain Foods :

Whole grain is a great brain stimulator because it contains high percentage of folate. Make sure you’re eating a diet rich in whole grain breads, cereals, barley, popcorn, etc., because they can boost your blood flow to the brain. Every organ in the body is dependent on blood flow especially the brain. 

Wholegrain breads and cereals are rich in Vitamin B6, an important brain vitamin. Wheat germ additionally contains memory-improving thiamine. 

2a. Nuts :

Everything from the most common nuts — such as walnuts, hazelnuts, cashews and almonds — to the more exotic seeds and nuts can clear up that “brain fog” and enable you to think clearer and are positive mood enhancers. 

Walnuts are made up of 15 to 20 percent protein and contain linoleic (omega-6 fatty acids) and alpha-linoleic acids (omega-3 fatty acids), vitamin E and vitamin B6, making them an excellent source of nourishment for your nervous system. 

Walnuts may also help correct the human brain’s seratonin levels. Seratonin is an important brain chemical that controls both our moods and appetite. Walnuts may be able to relieve disorders like insomnia, depression, overeating and other compulsive behavior

2b. Cashews 

Each nut can enhance your mental health in its own way. Cashews are high in magnesium, known to open up the blood vessels in your body. More oxygen-rich blood = better brain function. 

2c. Almonds 

Phenylalanine, found in almonds, can do wonders for your mental and neurological health. Phenylalanine has the rare ability to cross the blood-brain barrier where it stimulates the brain to generate natural mood-boosting neurotransmitters called dopamine, adrenaline and noradrenaline. Additionally, almonds are high in riboflavin which is known to boost memory. 

2d. Pecans 

Pecans and peanuts provide choline, another important nutrient for optimal brain function. Choline aids in both memory and brain development. 

3. Blueberries 

Eating blueberries and a diet rich in deep pigment from fruits and vegetables helps preserve the brain machinery and boost the potency of neuron signals. Blueberries literally strengthen the brain. They have compounds that turn on key systems in the brain enable other proteins to help with memory or other cognitive skills. 
In one recent study, subjects who ate one cup of blueberries a day for two weeks showed an increased birth rate of brain cells in the hippocampus (region responsible for memory), and scored significantly higher in classroom tests than those subjects who did not. 

Blueberries are also known to protect the brain from oxidative stress and may reduce the effects of age-related conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease and Dementia. In addition, blueberries also contain ellagic acid, another phytochemical that has been shown to prevent cell damage. 

4. Strawberries 

Antioxidant-rich strawberries can prevent age-related neurological declines by improving brain cell abilities to send and receive the ’signaling’ molecules. The brain uses these signaling molecules to communicate. 
Remarkably, these same studies showed that the powerful antioxidants in strawberries, spinach and blueberries can improve the ability to communicate even among brain cells already showing signs of age-related damage. 

5. Blackberries 

Blackberries contain an amazing class of nutrients called anthocyanins. Our brain is particularly vulnerable to oxidative damage but anthocyanins help protect our brain from oxidation stress, which in turn fights degenerative brain diseases. 

6. Sunflower Seeds 

Like nuts, many seeds and nuts can boost your mood and brainpower. Sunflower seeds contain tryptophan, an important amino acid that the brain converts to seratonin, which is a natural way to relieve mild depression and insomnia. Additionally, sunflower seeds are high in thiamine, an important B vitamin, which increases memory and cognitive function. 

8. Pumpkin Seeds 

Amazingly, the most powerful part of the pumpkin lies in its least used part. The seeds of the pumpkin are a power food, rich in many nutrients including: Zinc, Vitamin A and E, and the precious Omega 3 and Omega 6 fatty acids. The Zinc found in pumpkin seeds plays a vital role in enhancing memory and thinking skills. 

9. Green Tea 

Green tea is a wonderful beverage, and when freshly brewed, it enhances memory and focus and fights mental fatigue. Green tea contains catechines, which help you relax mentally, yet also keeps your wits sharpened. Green teas are the freshest and least processed because they are not at all fermented. Steep tea for about 3 minutes; this time allotment enables the health promoting compounds to be released; steeping for much longer turns the tea bitter and releases too much tannin, which can irritate the digestive tract, cause constipation, and decrease iron absorption.

A few cups of tea a day may help keep the heart doctor and dentist away, as well as cancer and Alzheimer's disease at bay. Green Tea also helps maintain positive mood states and fights against many brain disorders. Polyphenols are powerful antioxidants found in green tea that can boost the availability of the important signaling brain substance dopamine in brain circuits. Dopamine is vital in creating positive mood states. Polyphenols also help the brain and body run smoothly by maintaining a steady supply of our body’s primary fuel: glucose. These powerful polyphenols also help prevent cancer and heart attacks. Bottled teas, iced tea, and teas made from mixes are also all rich in polyphenols. However, keep iced tea fresh, the polyphenol content starts to deteriorate after a few days. Make sure to finish it within a few days before the antioxidant content starts to decline. 

Black tea is simply green tea that has been fermented for around 6 hours. Fermentation turns the green leaves black and alters the polyphenol content, though it is still very high in antioxidants.
Note: If you are worried about the caffeine content of tea, opt for the decaffeinated varieties.

10. Eggs 

Eggs indeed offer a very impressive nutritional profile for their 70 calories. They are a precious source of high-quality proteins and rich in vitamins and minerals. But there’s more. 
Nutrient called choline, found in eggs, can help boost the memory center in the brain. Researchers have found choline to increase the size of neurons, which helps them fire electrical signals more strongly and rebound faster between firings. 
Two antioxidants found in egg yolk called lutein and zeaxanthin help prevent the risk of age-related cataracts and macular degeneration, two of the most prevalent age-related eye conditions. 
Remember Egg is not holistic and for many people its a strict No-No and neither is Egg a Vegetarian so many people would like to keep it out of their daily diet routines. 

11. Avocados 

For brain health, avocados are nearly as good as blueberries. Avocados contain mono-unsaturated fats, which contribute to healthy blood flow, the main requirement for a healthy brain. 

12. Tomatoes 

Lycopene, an amazing antioxidant found in tomatoes, could help protect against free-radical damage to cells, which is believed to be a primary factor in cases of Dementia, and particularly, Alzheimer’s disease. 

13. Broccoli 

Broccoli is labeled as superfood due to its high overall nutrient content. It is a great source of vitamin K, which enhances cognitive function and improves brainpower. 

14. Red Cabbage 

Red cabbage is full of an antioxidant called polyphenol. Polyphenols reduce brain cell damage and is especially helpful in the prevention and treatment of Alzheimers’ disease. 

15. Eggplant 

Eggplant skin contains a nutrient called nasunin which keeps our brain sharp by enhancing communication between our brain cells and messenger molecules. Remembering to use the skin pays tremendous benefits in vastly improved focus. 

16. Spinach 

Spinach slows down the effects of age-related declines in brain function and helps protect the brain from oxidative stress. Researchers suggest that a diet rich in spinach can significantly improve learning capacity and motor skills. 

17. Yogurt 

Calcium rich foods such as yogurt, milk and cheese improve nerve function. Yogurt contains an amino acid called tyrosine which is responsible for producing the neurotransmitters dopamine and noradrenalin. In short, yogurt helps improve alertness and memory. 

18. Chocolate!!! 

What better to end with? It’s hard to believe that anything as incredibly delicious as chocolate can actually be incredibly good for you as well. Dark chocolate has powerful antioxidant properties and contains several natural stimulants which increase the production of endorphins while enhancing focus and concentration. The stimulants found in dark chocolate also improve mood. It has high content of flavanols that facilitate blood supply to the brain and enhance cognitive skills. 

Milk chocolate jump starts impulse control and reaction time. It has also been known to improve visual and verbal memory. 
REMEMBER: This is, unfortunately, one superfood that you have to indulge in in moderation. 

Conclusion: Our brain is the greediest organ in the body, but its proper nourishment is vital to creative thought, positive mood, memory, and good overall health. It’s no surprise that what you eat affects how you think, feel, remember, and potentially even increase intelligence. 

Health benefits - Spice up your life:

Surprising Healing Benefits of Spices:

Just imagine your food without any flavour of authentic spices & herbs. Unimaginable, is it? Apart from adding colour, flavour and taste, consumption of spices provide infinite health benefits. You can be more creative in use of spices if you know its uses better. The chances are you sprinkle cinnamon into your morning oatmeal or add a dash of oregano to pizza without giving the spices much thought. But did you know your favorite flavors can actually do your body good? Read below and find out which additives can burn fat, ease a sore throat or help you get to sleep, and how you can incorporate them into your daily diet. Here is a quick look at some of them (some of my favourite ones) ::


Black Pepper:
Black pepper is one of the most commonly used spices. In fact, it is not uncommon for a person to use pepper with every meal ... fortunately, as it turns out, this is a good thing. Because black pepper is good for us.
Black pepper improves digestion by stimulating the taste buds and thereby alerting the stomach to increase hydrochloric secretion. Black pepper is also an antioxidant, and it has antibacterial effects. But wait - there's more! You will be very happy to know that the outermost layer of the peppercorn actually helps stimulate the breakdown of fat cells. Black pepper also helps prevent the formation of intestinal gas, promotes urination, and promotes sweating. It is full of manganese, and it also has a good amount of iron and dietary fiber, as well.

Cardamom:
Fruit of the Elettaria cardamomum plant in the ginger family.
Health Powers: Eases belching, flatulence and indigestion; treats respiratory conditions like coughing, asthma and loss of voice; aids in the elimination of toxins through your skin.
Daily Dose: Stir a few freshly ground pinches of cardamom pods into a shot of OJ or your morning fruit salad, or mix it with white or brown rice before you boil it.

Cayenne:
Fruit of the Capsicum annuum plant in the Solanaceae family, along with chile pepper.
Health Powers: Eliminates gas from the stomach and intestines; soothes sore throat, cold and flu symptoms; increases metabolism for weight control.
Daily Dose: Stir into a cup of hot chocolate or any sweet juice drink for a contrasting flavor kick.

Celery Seed:
Seed of the Apium graveolens plant in the parsley family.
Health Powers: Flushes the liver of toxins; lowers blood pressure; combats water retention.
Daily Dose: Think salads—tuna, potato and egg all work—which can be tossed onto a bed of lettuce, eaten alone or spread onto bread.

Chili Powder:
Potential health perk: Relieves achy joints. Research shows that capsaicin, found in chili peppers, has an anti-inflammatory effect, which may help ease arthritic swelling and pain.
Hot way to dish it: Sprinkle a few shakes of chili powder and salt on baked French fries

Cinnamon:
Bark of a small evergreen tree.
Health Powers: Tames nausea and stomach ulcers; functions as a mild anti-inflammatory; increases insulin sensitivity to help focus fat burn.
Daily Dose: Stir into coffee/tea, yogurt, oatmeal or any boxed cereal.

Coriander:
Also known as cilantro; the leaves and seeds of the Coriandrum plant in the aromatic Apiaceae family.
Health Powers: Acts as a diuretic; eases seasonal allergies.
Daily Dose: Cook into couscous and quinoa, which you can store and eat with leftovers.

Cloves:
Flower bud found at the base of an evergreen tree.
Health Powers: Soothes digestive tract muscles and is a potent antihistamine.
Daily Dose: Mix into your nightly ice cream treat or sneak into mustard spread.

Curry Powder:
Potential health perk: Safeguards your brain. The yellow curry pigment curcumin may fight Alzheimer's by thwarting development of the disease's signature amyloid brain plaques, says a study.
Whisk 1 1/2 teaspoons mild curry powder into mayonnaise to dress up sandwiches.

Fennel:
Seed of the Foeniculum plant in the aromatic Apiaceae family.
Health Powers: Calms bowel distress; supports milk production in nursing mothers; combats water retention.
Daily Dose: Add to canned minestrones and vegetable soups.

Fenugreek:
Fenugreek, is an herb that is commonly found growing in the Mediterranean region of the world. While the seeds and leaves are primarily used as a culinary spice. Fenugreek is helpful in controlling cholesterol levels, treating Diabetes and lowering Blood Sugar Levels. It is also good in Skin Inflammation problem, heartburn and acid reflux.
Usage: Fenugreek is a subtly sweet yet somewhat spicy side dish with any roasted food to enhance the menu. It taste really well if used as a stuffing in various foods. It goes especially well with cauliflower, eggplant and potatoes.

Garlic:
Improves your heart's health, blood pressure & cholesterol. Garlic consumption can lower total cholesterol and triglyceride levels by an average of 10 percent.
Usage: Add minced garlic and chopped cucumber to plain yogurt for a light dip or salad dressing or even mix it with your daily cooked food for extra flavour.

Ginger:
Ginger has many & many qualities. It is helpful in motion sickness, smooth blood flow, nausea indigestion and in heart dieases. It is an excellent anti-oxidant and helpful in fighting arthritis and cancer as well.
Usage: Add minced garlic and chopped cucumber to plain sweet-yogurt as a kinky starter before main meals and you can even mix it with your daily cooked food for extra flavour.

Nutmeg:
Fruit of Myristica fragrans,an evergreen tree.
Health Powers: Improves digestion; eases the symptoms of menstruation; induces calm and sleep.
Daily Dose: Grate a small amount into applesauce or plain yogurt. (Note: It’s safe to grate the entire nut, which you can usually buy whole at the supermarket, but you never want to consume more than one nutmeg per day because too much of this potent spice can cause stomach pain, double vision and other uncomfortable reactions.)

Oregano:
Leaf of the Origanum plant in the mint family.
Health Powers: Loosens mucus; helps treat respiratory illnesses; and calms indigestion.
Daily Dose: Use in any tomato-based foods, like marinara sauces, pizza and soups.

Thyme :
Leaf of the Thymus plant in the mint family.
Health Powers: Relaxes the muscle tissue of the gastrointestinal tract; stimulates immune system.
Daily Dose: Toss into any meat-based dishes.

Turmeric:
Root of the Circuma plant in the ginger family.
Health Powers: Reduces inflammation (joints, airways); detoxifies the liver. It is a natual antibioticand helpful in digestive disorders.
Daily Dose: Mix in with oil-and-vinegar-based salad dressings.

Wasabi:
Itp prevents ulcers. A 2004 South Korean study suggests Japanese horseradish can kill ulcer-causing Helicobacter pylori bacteria. Plant chemicals may also prevent tooth decay. Hot way to dish it: Mix a smidgen of wasabi paste with mashed avocado for a snappier guacamole.