What is Diabetes - Symptoms and Causes
Blame it on your genes or lifestyle, diabetes is not far from becoming an epidemic. Before we get into the symptoms, causes, and management of diabetes, let's understand what diabetes is.
What is diabetes?
Also known as Madhumeha in Ayurveda, diabetes is a persistent condition with elevated blood glucose levels. Diabetes is not a disease but a disorder that disturbs the body’s normal ability to produce or utilize insulin, resulting in health issues. Diabetes mellitus has two basic types: Type 1 diabetes and type 2 diabetes.
Type 1 diabetes mellitus is an autoimmune disorder where the immune system attacks and destroys the insulin-making cells. Type 2 diabetes mellitus is the common type of diabetes, which strikes later in life due to multiple factors including hereditary and environmental risk factors.
Causes and Symptoms of Diabetes
From the ayurveda perspective, diabetes is caused by an imbalance of the Ayurvedic constitution, Prakriti dosha. The studies show that individuals with Vata Kapha prakriti are prone to Madhumeha.
The indicators of diabetes are:
- Frequent urination
- Blurred vision
- Excessive hunger
- Slow healing of wounds
- Recurrent infections
- Numbness in hands and/or legs
Top Ayurvedic Herbs for Managing Diabetes
Some of the ayurvedic herbs that have proven to be beneficial in lowering blood glucose levels are:
Coccinia indica or ivy guard: Various parts of ivy guard have anti-diabetic properties and lessen the ill effects of diabetes. In India, it is known by names such as kundru, tindori, kundri, etc.
Holy basil: Commonly known as tulsi, reduces fasting blood glucose and cholesterol in patients with metabolic disease.
Trigonella foenum-graecum or Fenugreek: Fenugreek is used in various traditional medicines. The seeds of fenugreek are rich in fiber content. It slows down carbohydrate metabolism and lowers blood glucose levels.
Gymnema sylvestre or Gudmar: Gudmar, also used in controlling obesity, has potent anti-diabetic properties. Obesity and diabetes are believed to be linked and this herb combats both.
Cinnamomum tamala or Indian bay leaf: Studies show that bay leaf improves insulin function, and reduces LDL, triglycerides, and total cholesterol.
Momordica charantia or bitter melon: The fruits of bitter melon naturally control blood sugar.
Morinda citrifolia or Noni: Noni has been in use for centuries in various traditions. It has been used as a wellness drink. It is an anti-inflammatory, antihyperglycemic, and immunity booster.
Eugenia jambolana or jamun: The seed kernels of Jamun have shown antihyperglycemic properties in various studies.
Curcuma longa or turmeric: Turmeric has been used in Ayurvedic and Chinese medicines for treating diabetes. A compound called curcumin is known to prevent and treat diabetes, insulin resistance, and hyperlipidemia.
Ayurvedic Diet Tips for Diabetes Control
Diet is an inseparable part of managing any health problems including diabetes. Including whole grains, bitter foods, and spices, and avoiding carbohydrates and refined sugar in the diet enhances insulin function and prevents spikes in blood sugar levels.
The Role of Panchakarma in Diabetes Management
Panchakarma has a significant role in the management of diabetes. The procedures like Vamana, Virechana, and Basti eliminate toxins from the body. Ayurvedic detoxification and cleansing help in balancing prakriti doshas and hence managing diabetes.
Ayurvedic Lifestyle Practices to Combat Diabetes
Along with Ayurvedic herbs and panchakarma, following a definite lifestyle makes a big impact on diabetes management.
Yogic poses: Stress is a known risk factor for diabetes. Practicing certain yoga poses reduces stress and stimulates pancreatic function.
Meditation: Meditation is beneficial in reducing stress and improving mental clarity, which is essential for managing healthy glucose levels.
Habits and Routine: A routine that includes a nutritious and balanced diet, exercise, and sufficient sleep improves overall health and makes diabetes management easier.
Benefits of Ayurvedic Diabetes Syrups
Ayurvedic diabetes syrups like Noni D-Care have ingredients that help in controlling blood sugar levels. They improve insulin sensitivity and sustain overall well-being.
Conclusion
Living with diabetes becomes a little easier by following an Ayurvedic approach, which includes a balanced healthy diet, natural therapies, and a healthy lifestyle keeping the risk factors in mind.
Whether diagnosed with type 2 diabetes or type 1 diabetes, Ayurveda offers strategies to reduce risk factors, manage blood glucose levels, and minimize the risk of complications related to diabetes like heart disease. Before you make any major changes in your diabetes management strategies, consult with your healthcare physician.
