Organic Gymnema Sylvestris in Paris: the Ayurvedic plant that plays on the sweet taste

Gymnema is a vine of the warm forests of central and southern India. It climbs along trees and bears oval leaves and small yellow bell-shaped flowers. In Hindi it is called gurmar, literally “sugar destroyer”. The name does not come from a diet book: it comes from the very concrete experience of those who chewed the leaf and noticed that afterwards, sugar no longer tasted the same.

This particular trait made its reputation, long before anyone could explain it. In the Indian countryside, the fresh leaf was chewed as it was. Today it is found dried, ground and put into capsules, which makes it much easier to carry and to measure.

Ayur-vana, a French company specialised in Ayurvedic plants, offers both forms. We have both on the shelf, and we come back below to how to choose.

Gymnema leaves contain gymnemic acids. Placed on the tongue, they occupy for a while the receptors that pick up the sweet taste. The result: a square of chocolate or a spoonful of honey suddenly seems bland, while bitterness and sourness remain intact. The effect is temporary and fades by itself.

A capsule swallowed whole does not touch the tongue, so this phenomenon does not occur. Ayur-vana nevertheless gives a tip that changes everything: when a sudden craving for sweets strikes, open a capsule and sprinkle its contents on the tongue. You then return to the traditional gesture, with the convenience of a ready-made dose in your pocket.

Be warned all the same: the powder is frankly bitter. That is the price of the experience.

Ayur-vana Gymnema is once again certified organic: the leaves come from organic farming, controlled by the body FR-BIO-01, with the mention “India agriculture” on the tub, next to the AB logo.

The formula comes down to two elements: the ground Gymnema leaf and the vegetable capsule that encloses it. No excipient, no additive, no preservative. The product is therefore suitable for vegetarians and vegans. Manufacturing and control take place in France.

The detailed formula is in the Composition tab of this page. The cardboard tub, its lid and the seal go in the yellow recycling bin.

The manufacturer advises taking 2 capsules before each of the three meals, that is 6 capsules a day. With a glass of water, just before sitting down to eat.

At this pace, a tub of 60 capsules lasts 10 days. For a longer period, you therefore need to plan for several tubs. A capsule slipped into your pocket also lets you apply the manufacturer’s tip when a craving for sweets appears.

Not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women and for people on antidiabetic treatment. Do not give to children under six. Do not exceed the recommended dose. Store in a cool, dry place, out of reach of children.

Ayur-vana also offers organic Gymnema Sylvestris powder, 150 g. Both contain the same plant. What changes is how you live with it.

The powder is measured with a spoon and mixed into a compote or yoghurt. It suits those who prepare their plants at home and do not fear bitterness.

The capsules slip into a bag and need no preparation. They spare you the bitter taste day to day, while still leaving the option of opening a capsule on the tongue at the right moment. For a first approach, it is the simplest form.

Ayurveda classifies plants according to their effect on the three doshas, Vata, Pitta and Kapha. According to Ayur-vana, Gymnema soothes Kapha and remains neutral for Pitta and Vata. Kapha is the dosha of stability and heaviness: when it takes over, the tradition speaks of gluttony, slowness and a pronounced taste for sweet foods.

Ayurvedic dietetics also rests on six tastes: sweet, sour, salty, pungent, bitter and astringent. A bitter plant that softens the place of sweetness therefore ticks two boxes at once, which explains its choice place in the preparations of this tradition.

You will find other plants from this world in our Ayurvedic plants in Paris section.

Gymnema capsules are on the shelf in our shop at 10 rue Théophile Roussel, in Paris 12e, a stone’s throw from the Aligre market. Come and see us from Tuesday to Saturday: you can compare the powder and the capsules on the spot.

It fits well into a broader approach to rebalancing your diet. On the same shelf you will find, for example, Ayur-vana Coleus Forskohlii or Dynveo chromium picolinate. The whole selection is gathered in our weight control category.

The whole brand is presented on the Ayur-vana in Paris page. You can also order online and collect your tub in the shop.

How long does a tub of Ayur-vana Gymnema last?

Ten days, at 2 capsules before each of the three meals, as advised by the manufacturer.

Is Ayur-vana Gymnema organic?

Yes. The leaves come from organic farming, certified by FR-BIO-01 (India agriculture), and the tub bears the AB logo. The capsules are vegetable and the product suits vegans.

Can the capsules be opened?

Yes, it is even Ayur-vana’s advice when a sudden craving for sweets strikes: open the capsule and sprinkle the powder on the tongue. The taste is bitter, that is normal.

Where to buy organic Gymnema Sylvestris in Paris?

At Herba Barona, 10 rue Théophile Roussel, in the 12th arrondissement, metro Ledru-Rollin or Bastille. Gymnema is available there as capsules and as powder.