Recommendation
Rationale
Notes
Bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus); 20-60 grams unprocessed fruit daily or 60-160 mg 3x/day in tablets standardized to 36 percent anthocyanosides.
Helps prevent retinal deterioration, including diabetic retinopathy.
No known side effects or hazards.
Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale); 10-15 drops tincture 3x/day.
Helps regulate blood sugar levels.
May have a diuretic effect.
Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum); 6 grams/day or 1 cup tea several times daily.
Helps regulate blood sugar levels.
May have a hypoglycemic effect and can interact with hypoglycemic drugs used to treat diabetes.
Guar gum (Cyamopsis tetragonoloba); 5 grams 3x/day.
May lower blood sugar levels.
Not recommended for those with esophageal, stomach, or intestinal diseases.
Stevia (Stevia rebaudiana).
Naturally sweet, it is an excellent sugar substitute.
No known health hazards.
Note: Larger doses may be necessary for disease management and prevention. Check with your health care practitioner for individualized recommendations.
Sources: Laurel Vukovic, an Ashland, Oregon-based herbalist and author of Herbal Healing Secrets for Women (Prentice Hall Press, 2000); PDR for Herbal Medicines (Medical Economics Co., 2000).
