It will target the early stages of diabetes which affects an estimated 1.3 million Australians and those with diabetes controlled only by diet and exercise.

CompleMED is trialling a Chinese herbal formula jiangtang xiaozhi.

The trial's principal researcher, PhD candidate Suzanne Grant, said a clinical trial in China found that people with type-2 diabetes taking the formula experienced lower blood sugar and cholesterol levels and had their insulin "sensitised''.

Up to 100 people who think they may have diabetes, or elevated blood sugar levels, are needed for the trial which is should run for six months. Recruitment will close in August.

Ms Grant said: "Currently, when it comes to preventing diabetes, the best advice has been to eat well and exercise, but for many of us changing our lifestyle for the better can be difficult to achieve and maintain. This Chinese herbal treatment, if proven to be effective, will mean that pre-diabetes can be treated by a daily dose of herbal tablets.

"While nothing can substitute for a balanced diet and exercise for overall good health, jiangtang xiaozhi may provide a new, more convenient way for people to help avoid diabetes.''

Phone 97726218 or 0434576400 or email s.grant@uws.edu.au