Gymnema
Gymnema sylvestre
Botanical family: Apocynaceae
A liana of the tropical forests of India, used in Ayurveda. Its Hindi name 'gurmar' means 'sugar killer': chewing its leaves temporarily suppresses the sweet taste.
Full sun
Well-drained, rich (tropical)
Moderate: grows even in dry areas, but prefers moderate rainfall spread through the year
Frost-tender (tropical vine, pot or greenhouse)
Frost-tender in your zone
Role in permaculture
A medicinal liana of India, reputed for its effect on the perception of sugar. Cold-sensitive: grown in a greenhouse or a pot in our climates.
Companions
No companion planting is documented for this plant: no recommended neighbour, no neighbour to avoid.
Seasons & availability
A tropical climber in a pot or under glass: leaves available all year round.
Available: January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November, December.
Guidance for the oceanic / temperate climate; it may vary with your region, altitude, exposure and growing method.
Sources
- Plants For A Future, « Gymnema sylvestre » (pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Gymnema+sylvestre)
- Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, « Gymnema » (agritech.tnau.ac.in/horticulture/horti_medicinal%20crops_gymnema.html)
Nutritional & medicinal properties
For educational purposes. Not a substitute for medical advice. Effects depend on the form, the dose and personal context.
Precautions & contraindications
May lower blood sugar: caution in case of diabetes and hypoglycaemic treatment (risk of hypoglycaemia), to be used only under medical supervision. Not advised during pregnancy.
Key takeaways
- • Prefers full sun exposure.
- • Ideal soil: well-drained, rich (tropical).