An extract from American ginseng berry may reduce blood sugar levels by 30% and aid weight loss, reports a new study from the University of Chicago using obese diabetic mice.
In the U.S., there are over 20 million people with diabetes, equal to seven per cent of the population. Results from this study suggest that the hypoglycemic activity of the berry juice may prove to be beneficial in the prevention and management of type 2 diabetes.
The herb has been gaining popularity in Western societies, finding its way into, for example, energy drinks. In the U.S. it is estimated to be the second top-selling herbal supplement, with $62 million in annual sales last year.