Diabetes is one of the fast growing lifestyle disorder that can be effectively manged with few lifestyle modifications and eating a healthy diet. Characterized by high blood sugar levels in the body, this condition affects the body's ability to either produce insulin or to use insulin effectively. Although there are numerous treatment options available to keep your blood sugar levels in control, home remedies can work wonders in achieving this task. Here are top 10 effective home remedies to maintain your blood sugar levels and lead a healthy life with diabetes ....

Holy Basil (tulsi) leaves

The leaves of holy basil are packed with antioxidants and essential oils that produce eugenol, methyl eugenol and caryophyllence. Collectively these compounds help the pancreatic beta cells (cells that store and release insulin) to function properly and increase sensitivity to insulin. An added advantage is that the antioxidants present in the leaves help beat the ill effects of oxidative stress.

Tip: Consume two to three tulsi leaves whole or about one tablespoon full of its juice on an empty stomach to lower the blood sugar levels.

Flax seeds (Alsi)

Due to their high fibre content flaxseeds help digestion and aid in the proper absorption of fats and sugars. Consuming flax seed helps reduce a diabetic's postprandial sugar level by almost 28 per cent.

Tip: Consume on tablespoon of ground flaxseed powder every morning on an empty stomach with a glass of warm water. However, do not have more than 2 tablespoons per day, as it can be detrimental to your health.

Leaves of bilberry (neelabadari) plant

The leave of bilberry have been used in Ayerveda for many centuries to control diabetes. Recently, the Journal of Nutrition stated that the leaves of the Bilberry plant contain high amounts of anthocyanidin, which enhance the action of various proteins involved in glucose transportation and fat metabolism. Due to this unique property, blibbery leaves are a great way to lower one's blood sugar levels.

Tip: Crush bliberry leaves in a normal and pestle and consume 100 milligrams of this extract everyday on an empty stomach.

Cinnamon (dalchini)

Also known as dalchini, it improves insulin sensitivity and lower blood glucose levels. Having as little as 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon per day can improve one's insulin sensitivity and help controlling weight, there by decreasing one's risk for hear disease.

Tip: Include about 1 gram of dalchini into your daily diet for about a month to help lower blood sugar levels.

Green Tea

Unlike other tea leaves, green tea is unfermented and is high in polyphenol content. Plyphenol is a strong antioxidant and hypo-glycaemic compound that helps control the release of blood sugars and helps the body use insulin better.

Tip: Steep a bag of green tea in hot water for 2-3 minutes. Remove the bag and drink a cup of this tea in the morning or before your meals.

Drumstick leaves

Also called moringa, the leaves of this plant are best known for their ability to boost one's energy. In the case of diabetics, the morninga leaf increases satiety and slows the breakdown of food and lower blood pressure.