Gymnema has recently become well known for its ability to suppress the desire for sweet food. Its Hindi name, ‘Gurmar’, means ‘sugar destroyer’. It inhibits the taste of sugar, as well as blocking up to 50% of the absorption of sugar. Gymnema also seems to increase the release of insulin by the body, making it very useful for type I & II diabetes. It is also of benefit in other digestive disorders and other diseases affected by sugar use such as obesity, candida, parasite infestation, high cholesterol, hyperactivity, allergies and anemia.