Gurmar, curry leaves, moringa and more: 5 healing leaves that help control blood sugar, support gut health

From gurmar to curry leaves, mint and more, these 5 desi leaves offer more than flavour. They gently support sugar balance, gut comfort, and wellness (Images: Canva)

With lifestyle disorders on the rise, the path to better health often begins with small, sustainable habits. One such habit is embracing everyday healing leaves found in Indian kitchens or gardens. From Gurmar’s blood-sugar balancing powers to mint’s digestive benefits, some greens offer a lot more than flavour. Whether you brew them, chew them, or stir them into your meals, these  healing leaves can bring ancient nourishment back into daily life.

The sugar connection:

Studies suggest that India is seeing a rise in metabolic disorders, with diabetes and gut-related issues becoming more common, even in younger age groups. Modern diets high in refined sugars, fats, and processed foods leave your systems inflamed and out of balance.

Also read | Diabetes: 10 easy, effective habits to control blood sugar

Traditional herbs and leaves have been used for centuries in Ayurveda to restore balance. Gymnema sylvestre, also called gurmar, has long been known as the sugar destroyer, thanks to its ability to dull sweet taste receptors and support insulin function. These forgotten herbs can offer a simple and effective bridge between ancient practice and modern wellness.

According to an article in PubMed, Gymnema sylvestre contains powerful compounds like gymnemic acids and gurmarin, which not only suppress the sweet taste but also support the pancreas and regulate blood sugar.

It has shown promise in reducing triglyceride levels, cholesterol, and blood glucose without causing liver damage, making it a safe and effective herbal remedy. Also, adding healing leaves like gudmar, moringa methi, curry and mint leaves to your meals is an easy, natural way to support sugar balance and gut health.

Here are 5 healing leaves and how to use them:

Control blood sugar with Gurmar leaves: Gymnema helps reduce sugar absorption and dull sweet taste receptors (Image: Canva)

• Gurmar (Gymnema sylvestre): Gymnema helps reduce sugar absorption and dull sweet taste receptors. Consistent use may help curb sweet cravings. Boil dried gymnema leaves into a warm infusion that supports insulin sensitivity and may lower fasting glucose levels over time.

Health benefits of moringa leaves: Drumstick leaves are packed with iron, vitamins and antioxidants (Image: Canva)

• Moringa (drumstick leaves): Moringa is packed with iron, vitamins and antioxidants. It supports immunity and adds depth to dishes like dals, stir-fries and even rotis. A spoon of moringa powder goes well in green smoothies and provides a caffeine-free morning energy boost.

Health benefits of curry leaves: Curry leaves enhance flavour and are great for gut health (Image: Canva)

• kadi patta (curry leaves): Curry leaves enhance flavour and are great for gut health. They stimulate digestive enzymes and reduce bloating. Boil curry leaves in water or coconut oil for a traditional tonic that may reduce hair fall and improve scalp health.

Home remedies with mint leaves: Mint soothes digestion, calms the stomach, and freshens breath. It’s also helpful for easing acidity and nausea (Image: Canva)

• Pudina (mint leaves): Mint soothes digestion, calms the stomach, and freshens breath. It’s also helpful for easing acidity and nausea. Add crushed mint to your water bottle with cucumber or lime for a cooling detox drink during humid weather.

Health benefits of methi leaves: Fenugreek supports liver function, hormone balance and blood sugar regulation (Image: Canva)

• Methi (Fenugreek leaves): Fenugreek supports liver function, hormone balance and blood sugar regulation. It’s especially useful in winter or menstrual transitions. Make fenugreek tea with dried or fresh leaves to help ease menstrual cramps and support natural hormonal rhythms.