Contents
Uses
- Blueberry Leaf is also used to strengthen the capillaries in the eyes and is said to decrease eyestrain and improve eyesight. Cataracts and glaucoma, ulcers, multiple sclerosis, chronic fatigue syndrome, and diarrhea
Benefits
- Blueberry leaf extract has been shown in several studies to lower blood sugar levels when taken daily
- Blueberries contain a compound that inhibits the enzyme responsible for regulating glucose in our bodies
- Blueberries also provide other health benefits, including reducing inflammation and lowering triglyceride levels in the blood
- Diabetes Symptoms, Complications and Treatment: Increased thirst, frequent urination, fatigue and impaired immune response are typical symptoms of diabetes. Diabetes also impairs your ability to regulate your blood sugar levels. If left unchecked, this leads to complications such as cardiovascular disease as well as nerve and kidney damage. Treating diabetes involves healthy eating habits and regular physical exercise in addition to medications
- Blueberry Leaf Anti-Diabetic Properties: A study published in the 2006 issue of “Phytomedicine” showed blueberry leaf extract contains Vaccinium angustifolium Ait, a substance that helps lower blood sugar levels. The researchers discovered Vaccinium angustifolium Ait has properties that mimic the effects of insulin, the hormone the body uses to regulate blood sugar levels. Moreover, they found that Vaccinium angustifolium Ait shields cells from glucose toxicity. More research is needed to evaluate the potential applications of blueberry leaf extract in diabetes treatment.
- Blueberry Leaf and Hypoglycemia: Anthocyanin is a substance in blueberries that helps lower blood sugar levels, according to a study published in the 2009 issue of “Phytomedicine.” The researchers found that medication with about 51 percent anthocyanin had glucose-lowering effects similar to those of the anti-diabetic medication metformin. However, the hypoglycemic effect was significant only when anthocyanin was administered with a drug delivery system called Labrasol. More research is needed to determine whether or not the anthocyanin in blueberry leaf can lower the blood sugar levels of diabetics as effectively as established diabetic medications such as metformin.
Cautions
- Because blueberries potentiate the effects of diabetes medications, always consult your doctor before consuming blueberry fruit or leaf to avoid adverse reactions if you are on this type of medication.
Interactions
- Please consult with your nutritionist or pharmacist.
Other names
n/a
References
Source: Wild About Berries, http://wildaboutberries.com/why-take-blueberry-leaf_302.html
Live Strong, http://www.livestrong.com/article/542952-blueberry-leaf-diabetes/
Nutra Legacy, http://www.nutralegacy.com/blog/general-healthcare/blueberry-leaf-extract-helps-to-lower-blood-sugar-levels/