Gymnema sylvestre is the Latin name for a vine native to the forests of southern and central India. The leaves of this herb have been used in traditional Ayurvedic medicine for at least 2,000 years. It is primarily used to treat diabetes and other issues related to sugar.
Gymnema’s Hindi name, gurmar, literally translates to “sugar destroyer.” It’s a bold claim, but anyone who tries gymnema will consider it a worthy title. Once the herb touches your tongue it kills the ability to taste sweetness for about an hour and a half.
