Type I Diabetes
Answered by: Susan Eagles
Question from: Becky
Posted on: February 1, 2002

Is there an herb that can help repair a pancreas that does not produce insulin, or one that doesn’t know how to regulate insulin? I’m a Type I diabetic (27 years now) and take Gymnema, Vanadyl Sulfate, Stevia powder (sweetener), Bilberry, Garlic, Magnesium, and Vitamin C, as well as a Centrum Multi vitamin. I have been told people taking Gymnema have been able to go off insulin (even Type I diabetics) yet I still need it, though very little for a person who has been diabetic as long as I have. Do you recommend any detox teas to help the pancreas? Or any herbs? I’m already watching carbs and sugar and incorporating more fruits, vegetables and lean protein into my diet. I’d appreciate all you can tell me.

I haven’t heard that type I diabetics can eliminate insulin by taking Gymnema, though continuing clinical studies are pointing to the possibiltly of some pancreatic cell regeneration.

Alan Tillotson, a herbalist with type I diabetes and author of "The One Earth Herbal Sourcebook" (Kensington Publishing Corp. 2001), recommends the following:

- multivitamin twice a day

- vitamin C (2000 mg) for collagen production and health of capillaries

- vitamin E and essential fatty acids for cell membrane stability

- alpha-lipoic acid to protect nerves, decrease insulin resistance and reversal of neuropathy

- quercitin (1000 mg daily), a strong bioflavonoid to prevent capillary leakage

- a daily multimineral He states that the following are known to lower blood sugar: 200mcg GTF chromium, 5-15 mg manganese and vanadium (20 mg per day for 2 weeks then 2 mg per day)

Tillotson also recommends eating lots of beans, because they are slow to metabolize and slow absorption of sugar from the intestine, helping to regulate blood sugar, and blueberries to help repair the tiny blood vessels. I recommend Tillotson’s book for a good understanding of diabetes and a complete description of his dietary, herbal and supplemental therapies.

For information on some of the herbs used in diabetes, please see previous answers to questions on our website at http://www.richters.com. Choose "Q&A" from the main menu, then choose "Search Richters Q&A", and enter the word "diabetes" for the search.

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