Thank you so much for posting this article!!!
I never noticed Gymnema before. Here is some short info I found just at
http://www.pennherb.com:
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Gymnema came to be known as "sugar destroyer" after Ayurvedic physicians observed that chewing a few leaves from this herb suppressed the sweet taste of sugar. It is currently being used with much success by many with blood sugar & carb concerns.
Interestingly, some people note that after drinking a cup of Gymnema tea or extract, they're not able to taste the sugar, or it makes sweet things taste bitter for up to 2 hours. Modern research has confirmed that the active ingredient of the herb blocks sugar absorption into the body. Further clinical studies published in India also indicates that an extract not only lowers blood sugar, but may help repair damaged cells in the pancreas- the gland in which insulin is produced- thereby improving insulin production.