Weight Management & Metabolic Health

Gudmar (Gymnema sylvestre), also called the “sugar destroyer”, is an Ayurvedic herb traditionally used to support normal blood sugar levels. Its leaves contain gymnemic acids, compounds that can temporarily reduce the sensation of sweetness on the tongue and have been studied for their potential effects on glucose absorption and blood sugar regulation. Gudmar is commonly taken as a powder, tablet or extract alongside diet, exercise and prescribed treatment for diabetes and weight management, not as a replacement for them.

Kidney beans are known as Phaseolus vulgaris, among the most delicious legumes used worldwide. Their dark red colour combined with their unique shape resembling the human kidney renders them attractive, along with the composition of their nutrients, which makes them valuable health-wise. Kidney beans are known to have originated in Central America, but with time, they have found their place worldwide. They are included in many dishes, such as kidney bean curry, spicy sausage, chilly salad, etc. These legumes are packed with protein and thus make a perfect food source for those who prefer vegan dishes and are looking for ways to add protein to their diets. Besides protein, kidney beans are also rich in dietary fibre, which is necessary for a healthy, well-functioning digestive tract. High fibre levels enable a person to poop more regularly and, by extension, help in averting problems such as constipation. In addition, fibre also helps control blood sugar levels; hence, kidney beans are a wise option for those who are diabetic or those who want to keep their energy levels steady throughout the day.

Lady Finger, also called Okra or Bhindi, is a green, edible pod vegetable rich in fibre, vitamin C and antioxidants. In Ayurveda, ladyfinger is traditionally included in meals to support digestion, although individual tolerance may vary.

Kutajarishta is a classical Ayurvedic liquid formulation prepared mainly from Kutaja (Holarrhena antidysenterica). It is traditionally used to support digestion and is commonly taken for digestive discomfort associated with diarrhoea and dysentery. Kutajarishta contains naturally self-generated alcohol, formed during fermentation.

Trikatu Churna is a traditional Ayurvedic powder made from three pungent spices. It is traditionally used to support digestion and appetite. Evidence in humans is limited, so most available evidence comes from traditional Ayurvedic sources and laboratory or animal studies. Because the powder is considered heating in Ayurveda and may affect the absorption or effects of some medicines, use it only after seeking advice from a doctor or a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner. This page explains its ingredients, properties, dosage, side effects and precautions.

Ginger is a flower-based plant that belongs to the Zingiberaceae family, similar to turmeric and cardamom. The plant's rhizome is commonly used as a spice and has many medicinal properties. It is used in Indian households for cooking, as well as in Ayurveda, and modern medicines treat a variety of ailments. Ginger is grown in hot and humid conditions, particularly in tropical rainforests. The temperature conditions required for the growth of ginger is 18-25 degrees. India is the largest producer of ginger. It is commonly found in Kerala, West Bengal, and the Northeastern region.

Green coffee is the raw, unroasted bean of the coffee plant (Coffea arabica and Coffea canephora). Because it is not roasted, it contains higher levels of chlorogenic acid, a naturally occurring plant compound that is partly lost during roasting. Green coffee is available as a brewed drink and in capsules or tablets, and is commonly used as a dietary supplement for weight management, alongside a balanced diet and regular physical activity. Evidence for its effectiveness in humans remains limited.

Apple cider vinegar has been used for centuries, considering its numerous health benefits and versatility. This natural remedy, extracted from fermented apple juice, is used in health, beauty, and culinary applications. That is why apple cider vinegar has recently gained popularity, especially for beneficial health effects like digestion aid, weight loss support, and skin care. However, with increasing demands, it is placed on an open level among many people to know more about apple cider vinegar uses, benefits, and side effects.

Stevia is a plant-derived sweetener obtained from the leaves of Stevia rebaudiana, a shrub native to South America. Its sweet compounds, called steviol glycosides, are about 200 to 300 times sweeter than sugar (Peteliuk et al., 2021) and provide virtually no calories. Stevia is used in food, beverages and tabletop sweeteners as a substitute for sugar, and some capsule and liquid extract products are sold as supplements.

Guggul is the purified oleo-gum resin of the Commiphora wightii tree, used in Ayurveda for more than two thousand years. It is best known as the base of many classical “guggulu” formulations, traditionally used to support joint health, skin care and metabolism. It is taken as a purified resin, tablet, capsule or powder, usually within a formulation. Guggul can interact with several medicines, so it should be used under qualified professional guidance.