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12 Herbal Remedies for Diabetes
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12. Bilberry
This age old plant goes by a multitude of names including fruit of myrtle, huckleberry, bleaberry, airelle, black whortle, hurtleberry, and dyeberry. The fruit looks similar to blueberries.
The leaf from this plant has been used through history to treat diabetes, and its use has been backed up by scientific research which shows it does have the ability to lower blood sugar levels.
Bilberry has been used traditionally to also treat diarrhea, and inflammation of the mouth and throat. Some have tried this plant for chronic fatigue syndrome, heart problems, hardening of the arteries, and urinary tract infections with some positive results.
Both the berries and the extract from this plant offers additional benefits to diabetics, including improving vitamin C levels, preventing easy bruising by reducing the breakage of smaller blood vessels, as well as providing antioxidant support. It can also protect eye health by improving circulation to the retina. Bilberry strengthens the blood vessels in the body and improves overall circulation, which is important to many diabetics who suffer from impaired circulation.
Sources:
Duke, James A., PhD. The Green Pharmacy. New York, NY: Rodale, 1997. Print.
Murray, Michael, ND, and Pizzorno, Joseph, ND. Encyclopedia of Natural Medicine. 2nd ed. New York, NY: Three Rivers Press, 1998. Print.
Stengler, Mark, ND. The Natural Physician’s Healing Therapies: Proven Remedies Medical Doctors Don’t Know. New York, NY: Prentice Hall Press, 2010. Print.
