This plant, found in the tropical forests of central and southern india, is called gurmar translating to sugar-killer. It's ancient sanskrit name is meshas-ringi, or ram's horn, in the south it is known by the tamil name sirukurinjan, and it's latin name is gymnema sylvestre. Gurmar has long been known is india as a useful herb. When chewed, gurmar leaves stimulate insulin secretion and have blood sugar reducing properties. It blocks sweet taste receptors when applied to tongue, and removes glycosuria in diabetics.