What are the benefits of gurmar powder?
For centuries, traditional healers have turned to Gurmar (Gymnema sylvestre), a climbing woody plant native to India and parts of Africa, for its remarkable healing properties. In Ayurveda, it is called Madhunashini — literally meaning “destroyer of sugar” — because of its unique ability to dull the taste of sweetness and help manage blood sugar levels. Modern research now confirms what ancient texts suggested: It is more than just a folk remedy. Gurmar powder offers potential benefits in controlling diabetes, reducing sugar cravings, improving cholesterol, and supporting overall metabolic health. This article explores its Ayurvedic uses, modern medicinal insights, and the latest scientific research on this powerful herb.
Latin Name: Gymnema sylvestre
Vernacular Names:
Hindi: Gurmar
Bengali: Medasingi
Marathi: Bedki Chaapala
Gujarati: Dhuleti
Tamil: Sirukurinjan
Telugu: Podapatri
Kannada: Madhunashini
Malayalam: Madhunashini Chakkarakolli
English: Gymnema, Periploca of the woods
Sanskrit Names:
Madhunashini : one which destroys the madhur(sweet) taste.
Meshashringi , shrungika Ajashringi : leaf resemble the horn of goat.
Vishani – destroys the poison.
Tikthadudgha- it is bitter in taste.
Shri Vruksha : auspicious.
Vartika: It is a climber
Padavruksha, ghanashrungi, Bahalangaka, Bahalanga, Bahalachakshusha, Vishanika, Kurchaparni, Sarpadansha, Akshibheshaja are the other names of this herb.
Benefits & Ayurvedic Properties of Gurmar powder
Ras
- Tikta (Bitter)
- Kashay ( Astringent)
Veerya ( Potency)
- Ushna (Hot)
Vipaak ( Post-digestive effect)
- Katu (Pungent)
Guna ( Qualities)
- Laghu (Lightness)
- Rooksha (Dry)
Dosha Effect
Balances: Vata and Kapha dosha
Classical Categorization
In Bhavprakash nighantu – It is categorized as Guduchaydi varga herb
Dhanvantari Nighantu : Guduchayadi varga
Kaiyyadeva Nighantu : Oushadi Varga
Raj Nighantu : Prabadradi varga
Health Benefits of Gurmar powder
In management of blood sugar levels
- Regulates Blood Sugar Levels: Gurmar is highly regarded for its anti-diabetic properties. It is believed to help regulate blood sugar levels by:
- Stimulating Insulin Secretion: Gurmar may help stimulate the pancreas to produce more insulin, the hormone that regulates blood sugar.
- Improving Insulin Sensitivity: It may also enhance the body’s sensitivity to insulin, allowing cells to utilize glucose more effectively.
- Reducing Glucose Absorption: Gurmar may help reduce the absorption of glucose in the intestines.
May promote weight loss journey
- Reduces Sugar Cravings: Gurmar’s ability to suppress the taste of sweetness can help reduce cravings for sugary foods and drinks, aiding in weight management.
- May Promote Weight Loss: Some studies suggest that Gurmar may help promote weight loss by increasing metabolism and reducing fat accumulation
Digestive health
- Aids Digestion: Gurmar has been traditionally used to support digestive health. It is believed to improve digestion, reduce bloating and gas, and alleviate constipation.
- May Help with Digestive Disorders: It may also be beneficial for managing digestive disorders like indigestion and heartburn.
Helps improve heart health
- May Lower Cholesterol Levels: Studies indicate that Gurmar may help lower total cholesterol and LDL (“bad”) cholesterol levels, while increasing HDL (“good”) cholesterol. This can contribute to a healthier heart and reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
Actions (Karma) of Gurmar in Ayurveda
Dahahar –useful in burning sensation, as in gastritis, neuropathy, burning sensation in eyes etc
Asra – blood disorders such as abscess, skin disorders, bleeding disorders such as menorrhagia, nasal bleeding etc.
Shopha – gurmar benefits in easing inflammation
Trushna – relieves excessive thirst
Vami – vomiting
Shwasa – helpful asthma and chronic respiratory disorders
Hrudroga – useful in cardiac disorder
Visha – Toxic conditions, poisoning
Kasa – relieves cough, cold
Kushta – skin diseases
Vrana – Ulcers, wounds
Raktapitta –Bleeding disorders such as nasal bleeding, heavy periods, etc
Pama – Keloids, Papules
Kesharanjini –Gives natural black colour to hair.
How to use Gurmar
Gurmar can be consumed in various forms, including:
- Decoction: To make the decoction you need 2 cup water and 1 teaspoon of powder of gurmar. Now add this powder in 2 cup of water and boil till one cup is left. Then filter it, your decoction is ready.
- Dosage : 20 to 30 ml two times a day.
- Gurmar powder: 1-2 teaspoon two times daily, before meals
- Gurmar Capsule : 1 to 2 capsule two times daily with water. Preferably before meals
- Part Used : leaves and roots
What are the side effects of Gurmar
Gurmar is generally considered safe when used in moderation. However, some individuals may experience:
- Stomach upset: Nausea, diarrhea, or stomach pain
- Allergic reactions: Skin rash or itching
Low blood sugar: Gurmar may lower blood sugar levels, especially when combined with diabetes medications.
Precautions
During breast feeding avoid consuming gurmar.
Avoid consuming gurmar during pregnancy due to lack of research on safety during pregnancy.
Always use gurmar in recommended dosage to avoid potential side effects such as nausea and bloating. It is better to ask Ayurveda doctor about dose and suitability for your body type.
If you have pre existing medical conditions or taking any medications, consult a doctor before using gurmar. This ensures that there are no harmful interactions or contraindications.
Don’t use gurmar continuosly for long period of time . Take break to allow your body to respond appropriately. Also when we use any herb continuosly ,then the body becomes use to it and it don’t respond to it.
Store gurmar in cool and dark place to maintain its potency and prevent it from contamination. Proper storage helps in retaining its therapeutic value.
Home Remedies of Gurmar powder
Gurmar Decoction for diabetes
To make decoction you will following ingredients:
Gurmar powder – 1 tsp
Water – 4 cups
How to make the decoction:
Boil all ingredients together until reduced to 1 cup. Strain and drink warm.
It helps to reduce blood sugar and also prevents complications in diabetic.
To improve digestion
Ingredients:
½ tsp Gurmar powder
½ tsp cummin seed powder
1 glass of warm water
Steps:
Mix both powders into the warm water.
Stir well and sip slowly.
How to take: Once a day after your heaviest meal to support digestion and balance sugar spikes.
Precaution: Avoid if you have acid reflux or ulcers.
For weight management & craving control
Ingredients:
½ tsp Gurmar powder
1 tsp raw honey
1 glass water
Steps:
Dissolve Gurmar powder in normal water.
Add honey and mix well.
How to take: Sip once a day to reduce sugar cravings and boost energy naturally.
Precaution: Diabetics should skip honey or use only under medical guidance.
Frequently asked question
1.Can this herb be used while taking homeopathic medicine ?
Yes. This herb does not react with homeopathic medicine.
2.Can this herb/medicine be continued while taking supplements like multivitamin, omega 3, spirulina ?
Yes .Generally this herb goes well with most dietary supplement. However if you are taking more than one product per day please consult your doctor for opinion.
3. With western/modern medicine
Seek your doctors advice if you are taking this product along with other western (allopathic/modern) medicine. Some ayurvedic herbs can interact with modern medicine.
When taking ayurvedic medicine or herb with modern medicine it is best to keep one hour gap in between both the medicine.
4. How long does gurmar take to start showing benefits ?
It depend on any existing disease, overall health, your prakriti ( genetic make up) all these factors plays a role in how quickly gurmar powder benefits are seen.
5.Can it be used in people with diabetes?
Yes. But always keep watch on your sugar levels. This herb can lower your blood sugar levels. Do not stop your diabetes medicine once you start taking this herb/medicine. Keep in touch with your ayurvedic doctor. They will guide you in this respect.
6.Are there any diet restriction( Pathya) while taking this seeds ?
No .There are no such restriction while taking this product. However if you have been advised with any specific diet based on disease, you should continue to follow it.
Conclusion
Gurmar (Gymnema sylvestre), long celebrated in Ayurveda as Madhunashini or “the sugar destroyer,” continues to prove its value in the modern world. From balancing blood sugar and curbing sugar cravings to supporting cholesterol management and weight control, its benefits span both traditional wisdom and scientific research. While studies show promising results, Gurmar should be used thoughtfully—especially by those already on diabetes medication—to avoid sudden drops in blood sugar.
In essence, Gurmar bridges the gap between ancient herbal knowledge and modern medical science, offering a natural ally in the fight against lifestyle disorders like diabetes and obesity. With growing global interest and ongoing research, this humble climbing herb may well hold a key role in shaping future approaches to metabolic health.
Please consult your doctor before taking this medicine.
This Article is written by Dr. Ashutosh Tiwari B.A.M.S, PGDCR Director of Risha’s Health And Ayurvedaa Solutions.He is having more than 20 years of experience in field of Ayurvedic medicine.
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Disclaimer :The content provided here is for informational purpose only. This blog is not intended to substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek medical advice of a qualified healthcare provider for any questions or concern you may have regarding a medical conditions.
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