Arun T Namboothiri, Research Associate and Physician, AVP Research Foundation
Diabetes is a chronic, metabolic disorder characterised by elevated levels of blood glucose that requires careful monitoring and management of blood glucose levels to maintain overall health and well-being. Ayurveda, the ancient system of holistic medicine, recognizes the importance of diet and lifestyle in managing various health conditions, including diabetes. For individuals living with diabetes, Ayurveda suggests incorporating specific herbs and foods into their daily routine as a complementary approach to mainstream medical treatment.
Bhael / Bilva
The Bhael fruit and leaves are renowned for their ability to purify the blood and lower blood sugar levels in people with diabetes. The leaf juice can help reduce fatigue and overall weakness experienced by diabetes patients. It is regarded as a safe and effective treatment for gestational diabetes, helping to regulate blood sugar during pregnancy. Bilva (Bhael) also improves metabolic balance and reduces inflammation in the liver and pancreas.
Neem
In Ayurveda neem is highly regarded for its potential therapeutic benefits, particularly in the management of diabetes. Neem leaves have various compounds, such as flavonoids, that can stimulate the pancreas and help manage blood sugar levels. It is a potent antioxidant, preventing cell damage. Neem’s anti-inflammatory properties can also help decrease inflammation in the pancreas, aiding insulin production. The bitterness of neem can rapidly lower blood glucose levels, making it useful for managing acute diabetes. Additionally, it can help reduce inflammation and infections in patients with foot ulcers.
Guduchi
Miers, commonly known as Guduchi, is one of such highly potent herbs used since ancient times by physicians to combat diabetes. Light to digest and highly potent herb improves quality of digestion, assimilation and absorption of nutrients which is an essential pathway to manage diabetes. The plant has immense rejuvenative properties which helps to manage diabetes in a lean person who faces weight loss due to diabetes. Guduchi leaf is useful in the management of diabetic carbuncles and diabetic wounds. Guduchi helps in blood purification, thus reducing the toxicity of blood.
Triphala
Triphala, a traditional Ayurvedic herbal formulation composed of three fruits—Amalaki (Indian gooseberry), Bibhitaki, and Haritaki—is recognized for its potential benefits in managing diabetes. It works by improving insulin sensitivity and reducing blood glucose levels. Triphala contains antioxidants, especially from the amalaki fruit, which enhance the body’s ability to process glucose efficiently. Furthermore, Triphala has strong anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce inflammation in the body, leading to better blood sugar control. Additionally, Triphala promotes regular bowel movements and improves gut flora, which is beneficial for diabetes management as a healthy digestive system supports nutrient absorption and metabolic efficiency.
Amla
The Indian gooseberry, also known as amla, possess potent antioxidant properties, which contribute to their anti-diabetic effects. According to Ayurvedic medicine, amla is considered the best rejuvenative treatment for individuals with diabetes.
Amla has been shown to effectively prevent or reduce various diabetes-related complications, such as hyperglycaemia, cardiac issues, diabetic nephropathy, neuropathy, cataract formation, and protein wasting. The fruit can be consumed fresh or as a dried powder, combined with warm water, honey, or turmeric powder for optimal results. Amla is rich in vitamin C, which supports the repair of cell damage in the body and helps lower the risk of neuropathy. Furthermore, amla enhances gut health and improves the absorption of essential nutrients.
Foods
Turmeric
Turmeric has been utilised in medicinal remedies across various regions of the world for many generations. Indian traditional medicine uses it for disinfecting wounds, healing burns and bruises, Diabetes control and as an antibacterial agent. Curcumin, the main active constituent in Turmeric, is helpful in preventing the development of type 2 diabetes. With its potency to reduce inflammation, turmeric helps to prevent the damage of beta cells of pancreas and it reduces the oxidative stress on pancreas cells. Better to consume 3-5 grams in combination with amla once daily for management of diabetes.
Karela
Most bitter vegetables help to reduce sugar in blood and balances the agni. The consumption of bitter melon can help your cells use glucose and move it to your liver, muscles, and fat. Juice of Karela helps to reduce sugar faster in acute hyperglycemia. It acts as a blood purifier and helps to reduce excessive heat in the body. Bitter taste can directly impact on the sugar level and acts as a safe and effective natural remedy for increased sugar level.
Jamun
Jamun (Syzygium cumini), also referred to as the black plum or jambul, is recommended for the management of diabetes due to its low glycemic index and its potential anti-diabetic properties. The seeds, fruit, and leaves of the jamun plant are believed to enhance insulin sensitivity, reduce blood glucose concentrations, and exhibit hypoglycemic effects. The consumption of jamun in moderation, along with a balanced dietary regimen and other lifestyle interventions, can be advantageous for individuals afflicted with the condition of diabetes.
Barley
Barley is one of the best grains that can be taken daily by diabetes patients which reduces blood sugar level. Ayurvedic classical texts have highlighted the importance of Barley as the best grain to reduce weight and improve metabolism. It helps to burn fat and reduce its accumulation. Can be consumed daily for weight reduction. In diabetes patients it expels the excess sugar from the body through urine and reduces the blood sugar level. Barley helps to detoxify the body by eliminating the moist waste from the body. Diabetes patients can use cooked barley as a main substitute of Polished rice.
Fenugreek
Fenugreek seeds, also known as methi, can help in reducing the impact of diabetes by improving insulin sensitivity and slowing digestion and absorption of carbohydrates. Fenugreek has shown its impact on high cholesterol also. In a short period of time, it can reduce the deposited fat in the body by improving metabolism and sugar balance. One can consume fenugreek seeds in different ways, including soaking them in hot water overnight, adding to salads, powdered and added to different dishes.
By carefully selecting and incorporating these herbs and foods into their daily meals and snacks, individuals with diabetes can take a proactive approach to managing their condition and potentially improve their overall health and quality of life.
