Salacia Oblonga Extract

Many diabetics prefer to forgo prescription medications for controlling their disease and turn, instead, to more natural methods. One of these treatments that has proven to be quite effective for diabetes management is salacia oblonga extract.

Salacia oblonga has been used in Indian Ayurvedic medicine for several thousands of years. This, alone, is a testament to its claims. Also known in other parts of the world by the names Saptrangi and Ponkoranti, this plant only grows in certain parts of India and Sri Lanka. Although it has been on the market in Japan for years, it has not become widely known here in the United States.

This supplement has been shown to lower blood glucose levels quite well, thanks to two separate alpha-glucosidase inhibitors. This allows the supplement to slow the absorption of carbohydrates. It accomplishes this by binding to certain intestinal enzymes that are used to break down the carbs. It is especially beneficial in lowering blood sugar levels after a meal. Researchers believe that this benefit alone may allow it to prevent type 2 diabetes from occurring in the first place.

An interesting positive side effect of this supplement is that it helps to control weight gain. Weight gain is a common side effect of many diabetes medications. Salacia oblonga is also believed to lower triglycerides, serum cholesterol and at the same time increase the HDL, or good cholesterol in diabetes patients who are not insulin-dependent.

This supplement has the ability to enhance glucose absorption from the blood into both fat cells and muscle. It has also been commonly prescribed for treating many other conditions, as well.