Diabetes is one of the fast growing lifestyle disorder that can be effectively managed with few lifestyle

modifications and eating a healthy diet. Characterized by high blood sugar levels in the body, this condition affects

the body’s ability to either produce insulin or to use insulin effectively. Although there are numerous treatment

options available to keep your blood sugar levels in control, home remedies can work wonders in achieving this

task. Here are top 10 effective home remedies to maintain your blood sugar levels and lead a healthy life with

diabetes.

#1 Holy Basil (tulsi) leaves

The leaves of holy basil are packed with antioxidants and essential oils that produce eugenol, methyl eugenol and

caryophyllene. Collectively these compounds help the pancreatic beta cells (cells that store and release insulin) to

function properly and increase sensitivity to insulin. An added advantage is that the antioxidants present in the

leaves help beat the ill effects of oxidative stress.

Tip: Consume two to three tulsi leaves whole or about one tablespoon full of its juice on an empty stomach to

lower the blood sugar levels. Here are top 10 health benefits of tulsi

#2 Flax seeds (Alsi)

Due to their high fibre content flaxseeds help digestion and aid in the proper absorption of fats and sugars.

Consuming flax seed helps reduce a diabetic’s postprandial sugar level by almost 28 per cent.

Tip: Consume one tablespoon of ground flaxseed powder every morning on an empty stomach with a glass of

warm water. However, do not have more than 2 tablespoons per day, as it can be detrimental to your health. Here

are 11 ways to include flaxseeds in your diet.

#3 Leaves of bilberry (neelabadari) plant

The leaves of bilberry have been used in Ayurveda for many centuries to control diabetes. Recently, the Journal of

Nutrition stated that the leaves of the Bilberry plant contain high amounts of anthocyanidin, which enhance the

action of various proteins involved in glucose transportation and fat metabolism. Due to this unique property,

bilberry leaves are a great way to lower one’s blood sugar levels.

Tip: Crush bilberry leaves in a mortar and pestle and consume 100 milligrams of this extract everyday on an

empty stomach.

#4 Cinnamon (dalchini)

Also known as dalchini, it improves insulin sensitivity and lower blood glucose levels. Having as little as ½

teaspoon of cinnamon per day can improve one’s insulin sensitivity and help controlling weight, thereby

decreasing one’s risk for heart disease.

Tip: Include about 1 gram of dalchini into your daily diet for about a month to help lower blood sugar levels.

Read more health benefits of cinnamon.

#5 Green Tea

Unlike other tea leaves, green tea is unfermented and is high in polyphenol content. Polyphenol is a strong

antioxidant and hypo-glycaemic compound that helps control the release of blood sugars and helps the body use

insulin better. Read more 10 types of flavoured green tea that have 20 health benefits.

Tip: Steep a bag of green tea in hot water for 2-3 minutes. Remove the bag and drink a cup of this tea in the

morning or before your meals.

#6 Drumstick leaves

Also called moringa, the leaves of this plant are best known for their ability to boost one’s energy. In the case of

diabetics, the moringa leaf increases satiety and slows the breakdown of food and lowerblood pressure.

Tip: Take a few drumstick leaves, wash and crush them to extract their juice. Now take about 1/4th cup of this

juice and drink it on an empty stomach, every morning to keep your sugar levels under control.

#7 Psyllium husk (Isabgol)

Also known as psyllium husk is often used as a laxative. When isabgol comes in contact with water, it swells to

form a gel-like substance. This slows the breakdown and absorption of blood glucose. Isabgol also protects the

stomach lining from ulcers and acidity.

Tip: Cosume isabgol after every meal, ideally with milk or water. Avoid having it with curd as it can lead

to constipation. Read in detail about 8 health benefits of isabgol or psyllium husk you didn’t know.

#8 Bitter gourd (Karela)

Rich in plant insulin-polypeptide-P, a bio-chemical that mimics the insulin produced by the humanpancreas and

thus, reduces sugar levels in the body. You may like to read about home remedies for diabetes. It is also known to

be highly beneficial for diabetics owing to the two very essential compounds called charatin and momordicin,

which are the key compounds in lowering one’s blood sugar levels.

Tip: Consume karela at least once a week either as a subzi or in a curry. If you want quick results, try having a

glass of karela juice on an empty stomach once in three days. Read more about 8 healthy reasons to drink

bittergourd or karela juice!

#9 Neem

Found abundantly in India, the bitter leaf has a number of amazing medicinal properties. Neemenhances insulin

receptor sensitivity, helps improve blood circulation by dilating the blood vessels, lowers blood glucose levels and

reduces one’s dependence on hypoglycaemic drugs.  Here are more health benefits of neem.

Tip: Drink the juice of the tender shoot of neem leaves on an empty stomach for best results.

#10 Indian blackberry (Jamun)

A glycoside present in the seeds of Indian blackberry prevents the conversion of starch to sugar. It lowers blood

sugar and helps prevent insulin spikes. Jambul also has properties that can protect you from heart diseases and

other vascular disorders.

Tip: Eat around 5 – 6 jamuns in the morning to control your blood sugar levels. Alternatively, you can also add a

spoonful of jamun seeds powder to a glass of warm water or milk and drink this daily for better control of

diabetes.