Gymnema Sylvestre is a woody shrub native to Asia and Africa’s tropical woods. Gymnema is an evergreen climbing plant with oval leaves and little yellow flowers that bloom all year.
Gymnema Sylvestre includes gymnemic acids, which interact with taste receptors on the tongue to inhibit the taste of sugar, hence lowering sugar cravings. Gymnema has been used for centuries for its many advantages, including digestive health.
We will discuss the benefits in more detail momentarily.
Health Benefits of Gymnema Sylvestre
There are numerous benefits to this powerful plant, but there are four main benefits to be aware of including:
- Balanced blood sugar: Gymnema Sylvestre is a supplement that has been used in conjunction with other medications to keep blood sugar levels in check.
- Reduced sugar cravings: Gymnema Sylvestre can assist in the reduction of sugar cravings. Gymnemic acid is one of the main active ingredients in this plant, and it helps to decrease sweetness. Gymnemic acid suppresses the sugar receptors on your taste buds when ingested before a sugary dish or beverage.
- Balanced Weight: Gymnema Sylvestre may cause you to eat fewer sweet foods and consume fewer calories by suppressing sweet receptors on your taste buds. As part of a balanced diet, a regular calorie deficit can lead to a healthier weight balance.
How to Create the Tea
Loose leaves must be carefully prepared in order to obtain the maximum amount of beneficial compounds. It’s better to use boiling water that’s been poured into the teapot and promptly poured out.
- Steep one serving of leaves in flash-boiled 8oz water.
- Let it sit for 8-10 minutes.
- The leaves can be consumed with the drink if preferred, or strained if desired.
- Sweeten with sugar, sweetener, or honey if desired.
- For iced tea, allow to cool, put into a glass container, and place in the fridge until needed.
- Drink within 3 days.
The sugar-regulating effect of Gymnema is temporary, lasting up to one hour from the time the herbal supplement is consumed. Gymnema Sylvestre normally takes seconds to take action, and the effects might last up to an hour after taking the herbal supplement.