Diabetic retinopathy:
A number of studies have shown that Pycnogenol, French maritime pine bark extract, may be beneficial for individuals suffering from diabetic retinopathy, a complication of diabetes that affects the eyes (caused by damage to the blood vessels in the retina) and can lead to blindness. Pycnogenol improved blood vessel resistance, reduced leakages into the retina, and was shown to be at least as effective as calcium dobesilate, which is commonly taken for diabetic retinopathy. Pycnogenol was well tolerated with gastric discomfort being the most common side-effect. (41)
Gooseberry, fenugreek and blood sugar levels:
Human clinical studies with data on emblica officinalis (gooseberry), fenugreek (herb), green tea, momordica charantia (bitter melon) and cinnamon supplementation were reviewed to determine their effects on hypoglycemic (low blood sugar) patients. Researchers found that fenugreek and emblica officinalis showed the most consistency in lowering fasting blood sugar (FBS) or glycated hemoglobin a.k.a. HbA1c, a lab test that shows the long term control of blood sugar levels in diabetic patients. Most trials showed cinnamon and bitter melon had hypoglycemic effects, but this was not conclusive. Additionally, green tea had very limited effects in reducing FBS or HbA1c levels and is therefore not recommended for managing hyperglycemia. (33)