Toxic Hepatitis Linked to Gymnema Sylvestre, a Natural Remedy for Type 2 Diabetes

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A recent study published in The American Journal of the Medical Sciences has reported a case of drug-induced liver injury (DILI) in a patient treated with Gymnema sylvestre, a natural remedy for type 2 diabetes mellitus. According to the researchers, this is the first reported case of liver injury associated with the use of G sylvestre, which is widely used in folk, ayurvedic, and homeopathic medicine. The study highlights the potential risks of using complementary and alternative medical therapies, particularly when used in conjunction with conventional treatments.

Key Takeaways:

  • A study from Beer Sheva, Israel, reports a case of toxic hepatitis induced by Gymnema sylvestre, a natural remedy for type 2 diabetes mellitus.
  • The patient was treated with G sylvestre for diabetes mellitus, and the researchers reviewed the literature to suggest possible mechanisms that led to this acute condition.
  • The study highlights the potential risks of using complementary and alternative medical therapies, particularly when used in conjunction with conventional treatments.
  • A. Shiyovich and colleagues from the University Medical Center, Department of Internal Medicine, were unable to find previous reports associating G sylvestre with liver injury.
  • The researchers note that recent studies report that 35% to 48% of patients with diabetes use some form of complementary and alternative medical therapy.
  • The study emphasizes the importance of rigorous clinical evidence to support the use of traditional medicinal plants like G sylvestre.

Statistics:

  • 35% to 48% of patients with diabetes use some form of complementary and alternative medical therapy (Beer Sheva, Israel study).
  • 800 plants have been traditionally used for the treatment of diabetes (Beer Sheva, Israel study).
  • 514-7 is the page numbering of the study published in The American Journal of the Medical Sciences.

Sources:

  • Shiyovich, A., et al. "Toxic hepatitis induced by Gymnema sylvestre, a natural remedy for type 2 diabetes mellitus." The American Journal of the Medical Sciences, vol. 340, no. 6, 2010, pp. 514-7.
  • Beer Sheva, Israel study (no specific date mentioned)
  • Science Letter editors (2010) Copyright, Science Letter via NewsRx.com (without specific date)