An endemic medicinal herb Maswedda ( Gymnema Sylvestre) will soon be used in the Ayurvedic treatment of diabetic patients. Minister of Indigenous Medicine Pandu Bandaranayake said that the Navinna Ayurvedic Research Institute has successfully conducted research on the Maswedda plant and found an effective cure for diabetes. He said the researchers had found that Maswedda similar to Kiri Anguna (Dregea)
Where Maswedda Comes From
He said the researchers had found that Maswedda similar to Kiri Anguna ( Dregea volubilis) could be dried and used as a drink like tea. Senior Botanist in the panel of researchers Dr. Piyal Marasinghe said, “The Maswedda plant is identified as Madhu Nashini in India which is a clear indication that it has been used successfully in the treatment of diabetics by Indian physicians. He pointed out that gymnemic acid found in the Maswedda plant revives the cells in the pancreas affected by obnoxious chemicals causing
He pointed out that gymnemic acid found in the Maswedda plant revives the cells in the pancreas affected by obnoxious chemicals causing an imbalance in secreting insulin. If a person chews the leaves of this plant, and then eat sugar or any sweetened food he would not feel its taste. The plant should be dried and used to prepare a drink just as a tea to control blood sugar. However, one should regularly check the glucose level in blood and consult a physician to determine the dose”
Dr. Marasinghe said Maswedda is rare plant species found in Monaragala, Nikaweratiya and Ampara areas.
