Gymnema Sylvestre - Destroyer of Diabetes

Family - Asclepiadaceae.
Gurmar in Hindi Literally means - "Destroyer of Sugar".
it known to have a good effect for curbing of diabetes by blocking sugar binding sites and hence not allowing the sugar molecules to accumulate in the body.
The hypoglycemic extract of Gymnema sylvestris brings about blood glucose homeostasis, which in turn prevents increased glycosylation of proteins thus reversing the onset of changes leading to micro and macroangiopathy. Control of Diabetes mellitus and the associated complications are mediated through the revival or regeneration of the insulin, producing beta-cells in the islets of langerhans. The glucose-like molecules in Gurmar known as the gymnemic acid fills the receptor locations in the absorptive external layers of the intestine, thereby preventing the intestine from absorbing the sugar molecules. Due to the change in the absorption level of sugar, there is a consequent change in the blood sugar level.
It is useful in Obesity also.

Berginea ciliata

Family - Saxifragaceae.
Found in the regions of Himalayas, between the altitudes ranging from 900 and 3000m. The rhizome is a well known Indian drug, mentioned by the name PASANADHEDA or Stonebreaker. It was believed to break the rock, in which it lived. It was used to dissolve gravel or stone in the bladder and act as a diuretic.
In higher doses it is cardio-toxic, shows anti-diuretic action, and has depressant action on the central nervous system.