G. sylvestre is an Asian herb that has the active compound gymnemic acid. This compound  suppresses sweet tastes without affecting the perception of other tastes. Studies have shown that this can reduce cravings for high-sugar foods. Additionally, it has been shown to block the uptake of sugars in the large intestine, thus reducing the absorption of glucose. Diabetes is caused by the bodies inability to utilize insulin properly This may be helpful to improve blood sugar levels in people who are pre-diabetic or have diabetes.

Another benefit of this herb is that it is thought that G. sylvestre is thought to increase insulin production by improving cell growth in the pancreas where insulin is produced.

Other actions of G. sylvestre is that it may also block the absorption of lipids (fats), thereby lowering “bad” low-density lipoprotein (LDL) levels in the blood.