Herbs listed in Table 2 on page nine can increase blood glucose levels. (4) Other herbs may also affect blood glucose control but are not listed here due to the general lack of research regarding botanicals. For instance, recent preliminary studies show that plants from the Salacia genus, such as Salacia oblonga, may lower postprandial glycemia and postprandial insulin response. Further research is needed to determine if plants from the Salacia genus can in fact lower blood glucose and insulin levels. (5)

The use of herbal remedies is likely to increase along with the increased incidence of people who experience glucose and other abnormalities after using HAART. The completion of thorough food frequency questionnaires can help clinicians to estimate intake of both food and dietary supplements. This can help to avoid serious medication- dietary supplement reactions. Patients with diabetes should be closely monitored to prevent hypoglycemia and/or loss of blood glucose control. Some botanicals may even reduce blood cholesterol and triglycerides in people on HAART so it is particularly important for clinicians to keep up-to-date information on these issues. The expertise of a qualified health care provider such as a Physician, Registered Dietitian or Registered Nurse is necessary to monitor patients.

1. Herr SM. Herb-Drug Interaction Handbook. 2nd edition. Church Street Books: Nassau, NY;2002. 

2. Herr SM. Herb-Drug Interaction Handbook web site.

3. Newall C, Anderson L, Phillipson J. Herbal Medicines A Guide for Health-Care Professionals. London: Pharmaceutical Press; 1996.

4. Herr SM. Herbs and Dietary Supplements with Potential to Alter Blood Glucose. April 2003.

5. Heacock PM, Hertzler SR, Williams JA, Wolf BW. Effects of a Medical Food Containing an Herbal a-Glucosidase Inhibitor on Postprandial Glycemia and Insulinemia in Healthy Adults. J Am Diet Assoc 2005;105(1):65-71.