Natural therapies lag behind the pharma industries because of the huge investment the pharma giants invest in diabetes medications.
Diabetes was treated with natural herbs and roots in the ancient days. Notably, berberine is said to have a similar mechanism of action as metformin.
Nowadays, these herbs can be added to the diet as a complementary treatment. In addition to their minimal side effects profile, these herbs and roots can be used to achieve stable glycemic control
We launched this herbal blend of Berberine, Oolong, and Mint Tea to help people adopt healthy diets, maintain good glycemic control, and live longer and healthier lives.
Oolong Tea: A Unique Brew
Oolong tea is originally from China but has gained fame all over the world. Unlike black or green tea, oolong is partially oxidized, which gives it a different taste from both categories of tea.
Depending on the amount of processing the tea undergoes the taste of Oolong teas varies from very delicate and light or very sweet to complex and more vital [ref].
However, what makes oolong tea special is its taste and ability to have specific impacts on the human body.
Research says it can perhaps assist in managing blood sugar levels, which is a problematic area for people with diabetes [ref]. While the exact mechanisms are still being explored, some theories suggest oolong tea may:
- Enhance the sensitivity of the insulin receptors, meaning your body could make better use of the present insulin.
- Bring antioxidants that could prevent cells from getting damaged by high levels of blood glucose.
- Oolong tea may support weight loss, which can benefit individuals with diabetes.
Thus, until comparative studies’ findings are available, oolong tea can be considered in diabetes meal plans, emphasizing its positive effects on blood sugar.
Mint: A Refreshing Ally
Mint is an erect, commercial, and aromatic herb extensively used in cooking and medicine since ancient times.
There are many types, ranging from peppermint’s seasonal taste to spearmint’s relatively moderate flavor.
It can refresh the breath, hence its use in teas, candies, and some foods that are usually classified as savory foods.
Besides its refreshingly pleasant taste, mint may also have health benefits. It has a calming effect on the stomach and benefits anyone suffering from a bloated tummy.
This may be particularly helpful for individuals diagnosed with diabetes, as these patients may have issues with digestion due to nerve damage.
Mint can also offer some benefits concerning the control of glycemic levels. While research is still preliminary, some studies suggest mint may:
- It possesses the capability of combating free radicals, which helps the body regulate blood sugar levels properly. It also improves insulin sensitivity, similar to oolong tea.
- Chronic inflammation has been linked to diabetes. Mint tea’s potential anti-inflammatory properties may contribute to improved blood sugar control.
However, more research is needed, although mint may be beneficial in diabetic treatment, carrying out beneficial effects on digestion and regulating blood glucose levels among diabetic patients.
Berberine: A Plant Powerhouse
It is a naturally occurring compound in various plants, and a few of them include European barberry, goldenseal, and root of the Oregon grape.
They come in a brightly colored canary yellow and are slightly bitter but with a delightful taste.
This plant power player has been considered because of the perceived gains in people’s health.
Blood sugar regulation is critical to people with diabetes, and based on Berberine’s antihyperglycemic properties, chances are high that the supplement can help regulate this aspect perfectly. Studies suggest it may work by:
- It mimics the action of insulin so that the body can absorb glucose from the blood [ref].
- It is increasing the production of enzyme sub-families that belong to the carbohydrate metabolism group.
- It reduces the extent to which glucose is produced in the liver [ref].
Besides the impact observed on regulating blood sugar, control of cholesterol is also seen, with berberine having the potential as well.
Research indicates that it may lower the level of LDL cholesterol and triglycerides, perhaps increasing the HDL cholesterol level, the “good” cholesterol.
Some research focusing on people suffering from type 2 diabetes suggests that a daily berberine intake of 600–2700 mg may reduce fasting and long-term blood sugar levels by 20% and 12%, correspondingly, considerably when coupled with usual medicine for blood sugar [ref].
In addition, a review of 14 studies showed that berberine decreased blood sugar levels and was as effective as popular medications with regard to blood sugar control, such as metformin (Glucophage), rosiglitazone (Avandia) and glipizide (Glucotrol) [ref]
The Combination: Oolong, Mint, and Berberine Tea
Drinking oolong tea with mint and Berberine while managing diabetes can be helpful, but there is not much research on this particular combination.
Potential Advantages:
- Synergy:
- All the components might have synergistic effects, in which each ingredient would amplify the positive impact of the others.
- Oolong tea and mint were found to positively affect insulin sensitivity, while berberine contains diverse ingredients associated with blood sugar regulation mechanisms.
- Digestive Support:
- Mint can be helpful for digestion; therefore, the fragrance could be useful for people with diabetes who suffer from digestive problems.
- Flavorful and Refreshing:
- The unique taste of the oolong tea and the refreshing mint make managing diabetes a little less tedious.
Limited Evidence:
- Lack of Specific Studies:
- Though some research exists on all the components, no research exists on this combination of tea for diabetes treatment.
- Dosage and Interaction:
- Identifying the concentration of every component and possible synergistic effects of all active ingredients is also significant.
Important Considerations:
As this tea may be an alternative to regular consumption, it should not, in any way, be used instead of the doctor-prescribed diabetes medications.
It is also essential for diabetic patients to take this tea with the advice of a qualified medical practitioner.