Diabetes is a chronic metabolic disorder in which the body is unable to make the right use of glucose, resulting in hyperglycemia. Excessive glucose in the blood leads to high levels of glucose in urine. This increases the production of urine in the body, leading to dehydration and increased thirst.

Glucose comes from the food we eat and is also generated in the liver and muscles. The blood carries glucose to all the cells of our body. Insulin, a chemical produced in the pancreas, is responsible for the uptake of glucose into our cells for energy. A decrease in our insulin levels affects this mechanism, which leads to an increase in glucose in the bloodstream.

In Ayurveda, diabetes mellitus is called Madhumeha (Madhu means honey and Meha is urine). So, Madhumeha is categorised as Vataj Meha. Vata is a term in Ayurveda, which symbolises wind and dryness.

The condition indicates a deterioration of Vata and soon changes our  digestion. This deterioration in our digestion leads to a pile up of certain digestive impurities that accumulate in the pancreatic cells and hamper the proper production of insulin.

Ayurvedic treatment for this disease works only after the affected person agrees to a complete change in lifestyle. Along with medicines and diet, the way to go about it in Ayurveda is to ensure that henceforth you lead an active and healthy life. Changes in diet and lifestyle rejuvenate the cells and tissues of the body, and once this corrective action is done, it allows the body to produce insulin once again in the right manner. 

The herb Azadirachta indica or neem is recommended

For those suffering with sugar problems, neem is a good friend. Neem leaf extracts can significantly bring down blood sugar levels and prevent glucose-induced hyperglycemia. It also has excellent use as a high quality supplement, which is available at a very low cost and is highly effective. At the same time, you can make tea with the leaves or use the oil topically, as the skin absorbs it. Ayurveda  recommends that you consume the leaves at the same time orally to have the right dose of neem.

Cinnamomum cassia or cinnamon

For diabetics, cinnamon reduces sugar levels. The dosage is usually 1 to 6 gms of cinnamon a day. This amount taken daily also reduces triglyceride levels, which is the bad cholesterol and, thereby, the total cholesterol reduces.

These benefits are again through increase in insulin sensitivity. Besides, it is a good and potent antioxidant, which brings other health benefits to the body. 

Trigonella foenum-graecum or fenugreek

Fenugreek seeds contain alkaloids gonelline, nicotinic acid and coumarin. The fibre in the seed may be how this herb provides its benefits and reduces blood sugar levels.

Momordica charantia or bitter melon

This fruit is used extensively in traditional medicine preparation as a remedy for diabetes. Generally, seeds are taken from an unripe plant.

Ayurvedic recommendations for controlling diabetes

+ Keep your weight in the healthy category for your age and weight.

+ Limit intake of sweet carbohydrates, mature fruits and white sugar.

+ Eat small portions of food throughout the day to keep blood glucose levels stable.

+ Opt for cereals such as green millet and quinoa.

+ Increase the intake of foods rich in proteins like lentils and beans.

+ Use spices such as turmeric, pepper and garlic. Spicy foods such as eggplant and onion are also recommended.

+ Decrease use of butter and fats.

+ Stay away from alcohol.

+ Keep a regular sleep time rather than taking naps at odd hours.

+ Add essential oils to a hot bath. Use a few drops of lavender or sandalwood. Use dry ginger and cardamom for a massage prior to the bath.

+ Be always active and keep your interest in life alive by varying your routine.

Try and incorporate a 20-minute routine of yogasanas. Alternatively, you can do about 10 – 12 rounds of surya namaskar daily. Follow this up with 15 to 20 rounds of anulom-vilom and meditation. 

For more help, you can always consult a good Ayurvedic doctor.

Yogi Dr Amrit Raj is a fourth generation Ayurvedic doctor and certified 500 Hours Yoga Teacher from Yoga Alliance, USA. He founded Maa Yoga Ashram in Rishikesh, which holds yoga and ayurvedic retreats. He has held yoga and ayurveda workshops for judges, European royal families, Hollywood and Bollywood actors, and UN officials.