Galega is an herb with distinct medicinal properties, such as antimicrobial, expectorant, diaphoretic and diuretic effects. The main use of this plant is to maintain normal blood sugar levels in people suffering from type 1 and type 2 diabetes. The use of galega in prescribed doses helps to normalize blood glucose and cholesterol levels due to the main active component of the herb – galegin alkaloid. This component increases the body’s tolerance to glucose, regulates the glycogen content in the liver and improves the sensitivity of insulin receptors. Galega preparations also inhibit the action of renal insulinase, which helps in the prevention of nephropathy in patients with diabetes.
In addition, galega is used as a diaphoretic and tonic, which makes it useful for colds. The plant has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, as well as increases bile production and improves intestinal function, so it is used in folk medicine for constipation.
In medicine, galega officinalis is used as an adjunct to insulin. This plant is a source of raw materials for the production of certain drugs to combat diabetes, as it contains guanidine alkaloid. Due to its beneficial properties, galega is used not only to treat diabetes, but also to prevent prediabetes in risk groups.
Although with some limitations, galega is also used to stimulate lactation during breastfeeding and in case of low blood pressure. Medicinal products based on goat’s milk help to normalize blood and lymph circulation, which helps to relieve swelling. In addition, galega has a moderate diaphoretic and diuretic effect, which helps to remove excess fluid from the body.
As a general tonic, preparations based on this plant help strengthen the heart muscle and reduce cholinesterase activity, preventing vasoconstriction. Galega also helps to narrow blood vessels and increase their tone, as well as strengthens internal smooth muscles.
