Coccinia Cordifolia and Diabetic Patients

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Effect of supplementation of Coccinia cordifolia extract on newly detected diabetic patients, by R. Kuriyan and colleagues. Diabetes Care. Published online ahead of print on 13 November 2007

What is the problem and what is known about it so far?

Some people with diabetes use “alternative therapies,” such as vitamin supplements or herbal products. Although some of these therapies may be helpful, others can be ineffective or even dangerous. The herb Coccinia cordifolia, which is abundant in India, has been used in the traditional diabetes care in that country. However, careful studies of its effectiveness are lacking.

Why did researchers do this particular study?

The researchers wanted to determine whether taking an extract of this herb has an effect on blood glucose in people with type 2 diabetes who are using only diet and lifestyle treatment measures, such as exercise.

Who was studied?

Sixty adults with type 2 diabetes who were referred to St. Johns Medical College Hospital in Bangalore, India, for dietary and lifestyle therapy.

How was the study done?

The patients took either an extract of the herb or a placebo (a drug that doesn’t do anything) for 90 days, along with advice about diet and exercise. They were given medical exams and had laboratory tests performed at the beginning, middle, and end of the study.

What did the researchers find?

Patients who took the extract lowered their fasting and after-meal blood glucose and A1C levels.

What were the limitations of the study?

The researchers did not measure the patients’ insulin levels, which could have affected the results.  

What are the implications of the study?

Coccinia cordifolia may help lower blood glucose levels in people with mild diabetes, but more studies are needed to find out how it may work and who may benefit most from it. Until more is known about alternative therapies, people with diabetes should be careful and tell their health care providers if they use any alternative treatments.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Complementary and alternative therapies for diabetes

Diabetes and nutrition

Blood glucose control