Himalaya Meshashringi -Invaluable for diabetics. The key component of Meshashringi (Gymnema/Gymnema sylvestre) leaves is gymnemic acid, which decreases the effect of sucrose when chewed, thus reducing the craving for sweet foods. Herb functions: Diabetes: The principle constituent of Meshashringi is gymnemic acid, which has antidiabetic properties. It reduces excessive blood sugar. It also has a regenerative effect on pancreatic beta cells and is insulinotropic, which means that it stimulates the production and activity of insulin. Meshashringi helps decrease sugar cravings. It temporarily abolishes the taste for sugar and helps neutralize the excessive sugar present in the body in diabetes mellitus. Meshashringi increases the activity of enzymes responsible for glucose absorption and utilization. Weight loss: Obesity is the result of a faulty metabolism, which leads to excess accumulation of fat. Gymnemic acid prevents the binding of carbohydrates to the intestine receptors so that the glucose absorption by the intestines is inhibited and ‘empty calories’ are not stored.