Gymnema sylvestre is a woody climbing shrub that’s native to the tropical forests of India. Its leaves have been used in the ancient Indian medicinal practice Ayurveda for thousands of years. It is called Madhunashini (that kills sugar) in Sanskrit and has been a traditional remedy for various ailments, including diabetes, malaria and snakebites. This herb is thought to inhibit sugar absorption and thus has become a popular study subject in Western medicine. One of the primary active components in this plant is gymnemic acid, which helps suppress sweetness. Gymnemic acids in Gymnema can block the sugar receptors on your tongue, decreasing your ability to taste sweetness. This can lead to reduced sugar cravings. Gymnema has anti-diabetic properties and may lower your blood sugar levels after a meal. Gymnema appears to contribute to favorable insulin levels by increasing insulin production and regenerating insulin-secreting islet cells. Both can help lower blood sugar levels. Research supports that Gymnema can play a role in lowering “bad” LDL cholesterol and triglyceride levels, which can decrease your risk of heart disease. Gymnema may play a role in weight loss and prevent weight gain. It may promote reduced calorie intake. The tannins and saponins in Gymnema have anti-inflammatory properties that help fight inflammation.