Metabolic Health
Gymnema Sylvestre
Also known as: Gurmar, Madhunashini, Gymnema, Gymnema extract
Gymnema sylvestre is a traditional Ayurvedic herb traditionally used to support healthy blood sugar metabolism and glucose control. Modern research suggests gymnemic acids in the leaf may influence glucose absorption and taste perception, though evidence remains preliminary.
Last reviewed June 2026 · Evidence graded from peer-reviewed research, not editorial opinion. Educational only — not medical advice.
Every Gymnema Sylvestre product we have scored
| # | Product | Score | Per serving |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | BulkSupplements Gymnema Extract Powder | 90 A | $0.06 |
| 2 | Pure Encapsulations GlucoFunction | 85 A- | $0.55 |
| 3 | Thorne Diabenil® | 81 A- | $1.56 |
| 4 | Pure Encapsulations Glucose Support Formula | 81 A- | $0.82 |
| 5 | Vital Nutrients Blood Sugar Support | 77 B+ | $1.13 |
| 6 | Codeage GLP-Advantage+ | 74 B+ | $1.33 |
| 7 | Integrative Therapeutics Glycemic Manager | 70 B | $0.95 |
Scored on dose accuracy, form, label transparency and third-party testing. Per-serving cost is list price divided by servings per container. No brand pays to be listed or ranked.
Common questions
How much Gymnema Sylvestre should I take?
The typical range is 400-600mg standardized extract daily. Ongoing
When should I take Gymnema Sylvestre?
Before meals. Before sugar/carb meals.
Which form of Gymnema Sylvestre is best?
Standardized extract — Gymnemic acids specified. Other forms in the catalog: Leaf powder/extract, Capsules, Tablets.
Is Gymnema Sylvestre safe?
Commonly reported: GI upset, Headache. Serious warnings: May cause hypoglycemia with diabetes meds. Safe
Which Gymnema Sylvestre supplement scores highest?
BulkSupplements Gymnema Extract Powder, at 90/100. Scored on dose accuracy, form, label transparency and third-party testing — no brand pays to be listed or ranked.
Primary uses
- Blood sugar
- Sugar cravings
- Sugar absorption
- Pancreatic support
- Blood sugar support
- Glucose metabolism
- Carbohydrate absorption modulation
What systematic reviews concluded
Outcomes that systematic reviews of Gymnema Sylvestre reached a verdict on: 6 with a benefit, 1 unclear. Each is quoted from a review and linked to it on PubMed. How these were read.
Reviews found a benefit (6)
“glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) (SMD 3.91, 95% CI 7.35 to -0.16%, p < .0001, I2 99%) compared to baseline.” PMID 34467577
“postprandial blood glucose (PPBG) (SMD 1.04 mg/dl, 95% CI 1.53 to -0.54, p < .0001, I2 80%)” PMID 34467577
“our study also found that GS significantly reduces triglycerides (SMD 1.81 mg/dl, 95% CI 2.95 to -0.66, p < .0001, I2 : 96%), and total cholesterol (SMD 4.10 mg/dl, 95% CI 7.21 to -0.99, p < .0001, I2 : 98%) compared to baseline.” PMID 34467577 · 2 reviews
“GS supplementation significantly decreased triglyceride (p < .001), total cholesterol (p < .001), low-density lipoprotein (p < .001), fasting blood sugar (p < .001), and diastolic blood pressure (p = .003).” PMID 36580574 · 2 reviews
“has anti-obesity and antidiabetic properties, decreases body weight and also inhibits glucose absorption.” PMID 24166097
“also inhibits glucose absorption.” PMID 24166097
Not enough to say: glycemic control.
How it works
- May reduce intestinal sugar absorption
- May support pancreatic function
- Blocks sweet taste receptors
Dosage
- Typical range
- 400-600mg standardized extract daily
- Timing
- Before meals
- With food
- Before sugar/carb meals
- Duration
- Ongoing
- Special populations
- Sugar cravings, blood sugar support
Forms
- Standardized extract
- Leaf powder/extract· 70/100
- Capsules· 70/100
- Tablets· 70/100
Safety
Common side effects
- GI upset
- Headache
Contraindications
- None specific
Products containing Gymnema Sylvestre
Top-scoring supplements in our catalog that list Gymnema Sylvestre on the label. Each product is graded on Formulate's ingredient-level rubric — dose accuracy, form, transparency, and third-party testing.
Known interactions
Evidence notes
Traditional 'sugar destroyer'
Grade B: Some human trials support key claims; further confirmation needed.
Related in Metabolic Health
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Medical disclaimer. This page is educational and does not replace advice from a qualified healthcare provider. Individual needs and risks vary — consult a professional before starting, stopping, or combining supplements, especially if you are pregnant or nursing, taking medication, or managing a health condition.