I think that is something your friend would be better working with their health provider on since they can discuss specifically all the medications they are taking, which may be more than insulin if it is like the diabetics I know, and the possible herb-pharmaceutical interactions.

FataMorgana

What do you mean by 'great herb user in his daily routine'? Are you talking about culinary herbs for food or something else?

I mean he makes use of too many herbs in his daily food just for taste you can say....no culinary use as such !

Garlic can cause problems for diabetics trying to maintain their blood sugar levels.

Oh crumbs. You're up against an indiscriminate herb user, and you might have some trouble persuading him that some of the herbs and supplements he's using might be doing him more harm than good! 'Natural' does not always mean 'safe'.

You can only try. You do not say if he's insulin-dependent, or on tablets, or whether his diabetes is controlled by diet. Broadly speaking, he should avoid herbs which act on the immune system, especially echinacea, which IMO is a herb never to be taken lightly. It should only be taken on the advice of, and under the supervision of, a professionally-trained herbal expert.

Refer him to one or other of the following sites:

http://www.defeatdiabetes.org/Articles/herb021107.htm

Also, the following information should be useful:

Do not take supplements containing the amino acid cysteine. It has the ability to break down the bonds of insulin and interferes with absorption of insulin by the cells.

Do not take extremely large doses of Vitamin B1 and Vitamin C. Excessive amounts may inactivate insulin. These vitamins may, however, be taken in normal amounts.

Avoid taking large amounts of vitamin B3 (niacin). However, small amounts (50 to 100 milligrams daily) taken by mouth may be beneficial.

WARNING: Supplementation with the omega-3 fatty acid eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) may increase total cholesterol in Type 1 diabetes; and supplementation of omega-3 fatty acids in general may impair insulin secretion in Type 2 diabetes.

Do not take fish oil capsules or supplements containing large amounts of para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA) Â consumption of these products results in an elevation of blood sugar.

Here is a link that might be useful: herbs diabetics should avoid