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Raspberry Leaf and Hypoglycemia in Gestational Diabetes Mellitus
Kai I Cheang1, Thanh T Nguyen, Nicole W Karjane
1Department of Pharmacotherapy & Outcomes Science, School of Pharmacy, and the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, and Virginia Endocrinology, Midlothian, Virginia.
Obstetrics and Gynecology
|November 9, 2016
Summary
Raspberry leaf consumption may lower blood sugar in pregnant women with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), potentially reducing insulin needs. Close glucose monitoring is advised for those using this herb during pregnancy.
Area of Science:
- Herbal medicine
- Obstetrics
- Endocrinology
Background:
- Raspberry leaf is frequently used by pregnant individuals.
- Other plants in the raspberry family exhibit hypoglycemic properties.
- The effect of raspberry leaf on glycemic control in gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) remains uninvestigated.
Observation:
- A pregnant woman with GDM experienced hypoglycemia after drinking raspberry leaf tea.
- Her insulin dosage needed to be reduced due to the tea consumption.
- The hypoglycemic effect was confirmed by the patient's cessation and resumption of raspberry leaf tea intake.
Findings:
- Raspberry leaf consumption may decrease insulin requirements in patients with GDM.
- The case study suggests a potential hypoglycemic effect of raspberry leaf in GDM.
Implications:
- Pregnant women with GDM should exercise caution when consuming raspberry leaf.
- Increased glucose level monitoring is recommended for GDM patients ingesting raspberry leaf.
- Further research is warranted to confirm the safety and efficacy of raspberry leaf in GDM management.
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