Pterostilbene is a naturally occurring compound found in blueberries and also in Pterocarpus marsupium, known as the Indian Kino Tree. This tree is found in Southern parts of Indian and Sri Lanka. Local people in the region would carve tumblers from the heartwood bark of the tree and drink water collected overnight to help with symptoms of Diabetes.
Several compounds have been isolated from the Kino tree, pterostilbene and marsupsin from the leaves and (-)-epicatechin from the bark. Studies into these compounds have found them to have insulin like effects and blood sugar lowering effects. Silbinol pterostilbene is a standardized extract obtained from the heartwood and bark of the Kino Tree, useful in maintaining healthy blood sugar and cholesterol levels.
If you’re looking for a way to manage your weight, reduce your risk of heart disease, improve your brain or organ function and even reduce inflammation, Pterostilbene may be the answer you’re looking for.
Clinical trials have shown promising results of Pterostilbene supplements on blood sugar levels, both fasting levels and after meals, with no reported side effects. Human studies have shown Pterostilbene to be safe with no adverse drug reactions on kidney, liver and glucose markers.
Pterostilbene supplements may have insulin-like effects in the cells of the body. This compound is similar in structure to Resveratrol, an antioxidant plant extract found in red wine, and has many similar properties as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory.
Pterostilbene and marsupsin both work by stopping the liver making extra glucose and preventing glucose absorption from the intestine. This lowers levels of glucose in the blood. Studies have shown that Epicatechin can have an insulin like effect in the body and improve insulin sensitivity.