GS works to reduce blood glucose through several mechanisms. The phytochemicals found in GS, including gymnemic acid and gymnema saponins, have glucose-lowering properties. GS also blocks intestinal glucose receptors, which lowers the intestinal cells’ absorption of sugars into the blood. It also stimulates the islet cells of the pancreas, which are responsible for insulin production.[1][2] GS may improve cholesterol levels by increasing pancreatic lipase and increasing fecal excretion of fats.[2] While studies on rats show that GS may lower some inflammatory markers in the blood, the mechanisms are still unclear.[3][4][1]
The phytochemical constituents of GS, in particular saponins, sterols, tannins, and triterpenoids, have antiulcer activity. These phytochemicals inhibit the gastric secretion of acid. The extract of GS also decreases the amount of gastric inhibitory peptide release, which is important for gastric emptying rates and nutrient absorption.[5] GS also contains flavonoids, whose anti-inflammatory effects could be responsible for, or potentiate, its potential antiulcer activity.[6][1]