Botanical name is Gymnema Sylvestre and common name is Meshashringi, Gurmar, Merasingi
Gymnema sylvestre is obtained from the leaves of gymnema sylvestre plant. The major bioactive constituents of Gymnema sylvestris are a group of triterpenoid saponins known as gymnemic acids.
Gymnemic acids have antidiabetic, antisweetener and anti-inflammatory activities. The herb has been shown to reduce blood sugar levels when used for an extended period of time. Additionally, Gymnema reduces the taste of sugar when it is placed in the mouth, thus some use it to fight sugar cravings. From extract of the leaves were isolated glycosides known as Gymnemic acids, which exhibit anti-sweet activity. It is currently being used in all natural medication for diabetes with other ingredients
It is used for Diabetes, Cholesterol reduction, Weight loss and Anti-inflammatory. It stimulates the heart and circulatory system, activates the uterus and increases urine secretion. Gymnemic acids are useful for prevention of the formation of dental plaque.