When discussing diabetes, a global health problem, we have to mention an ancient and magical plant, Polygonatum sibiricum. As a widely used medicinal material in traditional Chinese medicine, Polygonatum sibiricum is not only known for its rich nutritional value, but also for its potential benefits for patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D). This article will discuss in depth how Polygonatum sibiricum becomes a clear stream in the adjuvant treatment of T2D patients, and remind readers of the precautions in the use process.
1. Overview of Polygonatum sibiricum: a gift
from nature
Polygonatum sibiricum, also known as tiger ginger and chicken head ginseng, belongs to the genus Polygonatum of Liliaceae and is a perennial herb. In China, Polygonatum sibiricum is widely distributed, especially in Anhua area of Hunan Province. Its polysaccharide content is as high as 10-15%, even up to 22%, far exceeding the standard of pharmacopoeia (≥ 7.0%), and it is known as “immortal grass on moraine rock”. The medicinal value of Polygonatum sibiricum is mainly reflected in a variety of active ingredients, including Polygonatum polysaccharide, flavonoids, saponins, aspartic acid and so on, which act on the human body together and show a variety of biological activities.
II. Type 2 diabetes: a challenge
for modern life Type
2 diabetes mellitus (T2D) is a chronic metabolic disease caused by insufficient insulin secretion or insulin resistance, which is characterized by a persistent increase in blood glucose levels. The morbidity mechanism of T2D is complex, involving genetic, environmental, lifestyle and other factors. Patients often show symptoms of polydipsia, polyuria, polyphagia and weight loss (three more and one less). Long-term hyperglycemia can lead to cardiovascular, nerve, kidney, retinal and other system damage, seriously affecting the quality of life.
3. Polygonatum and T2D: Evidence
from Scientific Research
In recent years, more and more scientific studies have focused on the adjuvant therapeutic effect of Polygonatum sibiricum on T2D, revealing its benefits in lowering blood sugar, improving insulin resistance and protecting cardiovascular system.
1. Hypoglycemic effect: Polygonatum polysaccharide in Polygonatum sibiricum is the key ingredient to reduce blood sugar. Studies have shown that Polygonatum polysaccharide can not only inhibit hepatic glycogenolysis and reduce glucose production, but also improve insulin resistance by promoting insulin secretion and increasing insulin sensitivity, thus effectively reducing blood sugar levels. In addition, Polygonatum polysaccharide can also affect the absorption and utilization of glucose by regulating the activity of enzymes related to glucose metabolism, and further maintain the stability of blood sugar.
2. Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects: Polygonatum sibiricum is rich in flavonoids, saponins and other antioxidants, which can scavenge free radicals in vivo, reduce oxidative stress damage, protect islet beta cells from damage, and delay the process of diabetes. At the same time, its anti-inflammatory effect helps to reduce the inflammatory response related to diabetes and reduce the risk of complications.
3. Cardiovascular protective effect: Polygonatum sibiricum can increase coronary blood flow, improve myocardial ischemia, and protect the cardiovascular system. This is particularly important for patients with T2D, because cardiovascular disease is one of the most common complications in patients with T2D.
4. Regulating blood lipid: Polygonatum sibiricum can also reduce the level of triglyceride and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), increase the level of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), help to improve dyslipidemia and reduce the risk of atherosclerosis.
4. Application
of Polygonatum in the adjuvant therapy of T2D
Although Polygonatum sibiricum Redoute is not a substitute for drugs in the treatment of T2D, it can significantly improve the therapeutic effect and improve the quality of life of patients as an adjuvant treatment, combined with diet control, exercise therapy and necessary drug treatment.
1. Edible methods: There are various ways to eat sealwort, including making sealwort rice, sealwort tea, sealwort stew, etc. These methods can not only retain the nutrients of Polygonatum sibiricum, but also increase the taste and diversity of food. However, it should be noted that although sealwort is good, it should not be eaten excessively in order to avoid adverse reactions such as hypoglycemia or indigestion.
2.Precautions:
• Use with caution if allergic: People who are allergic to Polygonatum should avoid eating it.
• Use with caution in patients with deficiency-cold of the spleen and stomach: Polygonatum sibiricum is greasy in nature and may aggravate symptoms in patients with deficiency-cold of the spleen and stomach.
• Monitor blood sugar: When using Polygonatum sibiricum to assist in the treatment of T2D, blood sugar changes should be monitored regularly and the treatment plan should be adjusted in time.
• Consult a doctor: Before taking Polygonatum sibiricum, it is best to consult a professional doctor or nutritionist to ensure the safety of medication.
5. Case study: practical application
of Polygonatum sibiricum in T2D management
Taking Polygonatum sibiricum in Anhua as an example, because of its unique geographical environment and climatic conditions, the quality of Polygonatum sibiricum cultivated in this area is excellent and its polysaccharide content is high. Under the guidance of doctors, many T2D patients not only effectively control their blood sugar level, but also improve their sleep quality, enhance their immunity and reduce the occurrence of complications. These cases further demonstrate the effectiveness of Polygonatum sibiricum in the adjuvant treatment of T2D.
Conclusion: Polygonatum sibiricum Red.is the natural ally
of T2D patients.
To sum up, as a natural plant medicinal material, Polygonatum sibiricum has shown unique advantages in the adjuvant treatment of T2D. Its rich active ingredients can not only reduce blood sugar and improve insulin resistance, but also resist oxidation, anti-inflammatory, regulate blood lipids and protect cardiovascular health. However, Polygonatum sibiricum is not a panacea, its efficacy should be combined with individual conditions, and should be used under professional guidance. For T2D patients, Polygonatum sibiricum is a complementary therapy worth trying, but it is more important to maintain a healthy lifestyle, including balanced diet, moderate exercise, regular monitoring of blood sugar, etc., to achieve comprehensive and effective disease management.
Through the popular science of this article, we hope that readers can have a deeper understanding of the magical plant of Polygonatum sibiricum and its application in T2D adjuvant therapy, so as to have more choices and confidence in the face of this modern life challenge.
