Yoga may reduce Ayurvedic drug needs in non-insulin-dependent diabetes.
Journal name: Ancient Science of Life
Original article title: Yoga: As an adjunct therapy to trim down the Ayurvedic drug requirement in non insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus
The ANSCI is a peer-reviewed, open-access journal focused on Ayurveda and traditional medicines. It publishes original research, reviews, and literary studies linking traditional knowledge with modern science, covering disciplines like botany, ethnomedicine, pharmacology, and clinical research.
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Original source:
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Rohit Sharma, Hetal Amin, P.K. Prajapati
Ancient Science of Life:
(A quarterly multi-disciplinary scientific research journal in Ayurveda)
Full text available for: Yoga: As an adjunct therapy to trim down the Ayurvedic drug requirement in non insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus
Year: 2014
Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA
Summary of article contents:
Introduction
Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by insufficient insulin secretion and varying degrees of insulin resistance, presenting significant challenges in effective management. Despite the availability of numerous medications claiming anti-hyperglycemic activity, none have provided a complete solution without side effects. In India, both Yoga and Ayurveda have been historically recognized for their therapeutic properties for various diseases, including diabetes. This study seeks to examine the impact of integrating Yoga therapy with Ayurvedic treatment, specifically using guḍūcī ghana (an extract from Tinospora cordifolia), to reduce the reliance on pharmaceutical interventions for individuals with non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM).
The Role of Yoga in Diabetes Management
The study involved 30 known NIDDM patients who had been on guḍūcī ghana tablets for at least two months. Participants engaged in a Yoga regimen that included various āsanas (postures), prāṇāyāma (breathing techniques), and cleansing procedures (śuddhi kriyās) over an eight-week period. Scientific analysis revealed that following the Yoga intervention, there was a highly significant reduction in both the dosage of Ayurvedic medication (approximately 80.83%) and blood sugar levels (7.85% reduction in fasting blood sugar and 8.78% reduction in postprandial blood sugar). This suggests that Yoga not only enhanced the overall well-being of the participants but also strengthened the effects of the Ayurvedic treatment, thereby allowing for a possible reduction in medication dosage.
Conclusion
The findings from this study indicate that combining Yoga therapy with Ayurvedic medication could serve as a promising method for managing non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus effectively. The remarkable outcomes, including significant reductions in medication requirements and improvements in blood glucose levels, highlight the feasibility of this integrative approach. Future studies are encouraged to include controlled trials to further explore the efficacy of this combined treatment and evaluate its long-term impacts on diabetes management, focusing on glycemic levels and overall quality of life. This approach could pave the way for a safer and more cost-effective treatment strategy, potentially reducing the burden of diabetes on individuals and the healthcare system.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is the main focus of the study on Yoga and diabetes?
The study investigates the effectiveness of combining Yoga therapy with Ayurvedic medication to manage non-insulin dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM) and reduce the requirement for oral diabetic medications.
What was the patient demographic in the study?
Thirty NIDDM patients participated, consisting of 19 males and 11 females, aged between 30 and 70 years, who were already on Ayurvedic medication prior to the study.
What significant results were found after the 8-week treatment?
The study reported an 80.83% reduction in the required dosage of the Ayurvedic medication, along with a significant decrease in fasting blood sugar and postprandial blood sugar levels after the treatment.
What types of Yoga practices were included in the study?
Participants engaged in various Yogic techniques including āsanas (postures), prāṇāyāma (breathing exercises), and śuddhi kriyās (cleansing procedures) to promote holistic well-being and contribute to better diabetes management.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Yoga may reduce Ayurvedic drug needs in non-insulin-dependent diabetes.”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.
1) Yoga:
Yoga is a holistic practice combining physical, mental, and spiritual elements. It encompasses techniques like Āsanas (postures), Prāṇāyāma (breath control), and meditation, which can improve overall health. In the context of diabetes management, Yoga helps reduce stress, enhances physical activity, and promotes well-being, facilitating better regulation of blood sugar levels.
2) Drug:
In the context of diabetes management, 'drug' refers to pharmacological agents used to control blood sugar levels. The study explores how combining Yoga with Ayurvedic medications can reduce the required drug doses for non insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM), promoting a safer and more holistic approach to diabetes management.
3) Guduci:
Guḍūci is the popular name for the herb Tinospora cordifolia and is revered in Ayurveda for its medicinal benefits, particularly for its role in elevating immune response and glycemic control. Understanding Guḍūci helps appreciate its significance in the study's context as a diabetic remedy.
4) Blood:
In this study, 'blood' refers to blood sugar levels, which are crucial in diabetes management. Monitoring fasting and postprandial blood sugar levels helps assess the effectiveness of combined Ayurvedic treatment and Yoga practices. Lowering these levels is essential for managing non insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM).
5) Ghana:
Ghana in this context refers to a specific Ayurvedic preparation of Guḍūcī, involving a solidified form of its aqueous extract. It is a concentrated dosage form that enhances the herb's effectiveness. The study evaluates the impact of this preparation when combined with Yoga therapy on NIDDM patients.
6) Sugar:
The term 'sugar' primarily relates to glucose levels in the blood, which are critical markers for diabetes management. Excess blood sugar can lead to severe complications if not controlled properly. The study aims to reduce blood sugar levels by integrating Yoga with Ayurvedic medication for better health outcomes in diabetics.
7) Asana (Ashana):
Āsana refers to the physical postures practiced in Yoga. These postures improve physical health and flexibility, reduce stress, and contribute to better metabolic control. The study highlights specific Āsanas taught to patients with NIDDM, showing their positive impact on overall health and blood sugar regulation.
8) Activity:
Activity encompasses both physical movements and lifestyle choices that impact health. In diabetes, regular physical activity is crucial for maintaining glucose levels. The study examines the role of Yoga, which encourages physical activity and lifestyle modifications, aiming to fulfill the exercise needs of those with non insulin-dependent diabetes.
9) Sharman (Sarma, Sharma, Sarman):
Rohit Sharma is one of the authors of the study, providing credentials and expertise in Ayurvedic medicine. His involvement adds credibility to the research on the integration of Yoga and Ayurveda for managing diabetes, emphasizing the scientific approach to traditional healing methods.
10) Bhaishajya (Bhaisajya):
Bhaishajya refers to the science of medicines in the Ayurvedic system. It encompasses the preparation and application of herbal drugs. The study's investigation into Guḍūcī ghana reflects the relevance of Bhaishajya in developing effective treatments for diabetes, showcasing its traditional roots and contemporary applications.
11) Medicine:
Medicine refers broadly to the science and practice aimed at the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of diseases. The research combines traditional Ayurvedic medicine with Yoga therapy, presenting a novel approach to managing diabetes effectively while minimizing reliance on synthetic drugs and their potential side effects.
12) Kalpana:
Kalpana translates to 'formulation' in Ayurveda, involving the preparation and dosing of herbal remedies. The term underscores the importance of creating specific Ayurvedic medicines like Guḍūcī ghana for treating diabetes effectively, thereby aligning with the study's focus on alternative therapeutic strategies.
13) Rasashastra (Rasa-shastra, Rasasastra):
Rasa-shastra involves the study of medicinal herbs and minerals in Ayurvedic medicine, focusing on how they interact with the body's systems. The study draws from Rasa-shastra to emphasize the preparation of effective Ayurvedic formulations for diabetes, connecting traditional knowledge with modern practices.
14) Diet:
Diet plays a vital role in diabetes management by influencing blood sugar levels. The study emphasizes dietary recommendations along with Yoga and Ayurvedic therapies to improve patient outcomes. Understanding the dietary habits of participants is critical for comprehensive diabetes management.
15) Ayurveda (Ayus-veda):
Ayurveda is an ancient system of medicine originating from India, focusing on holistic health through lifestyle, diet, and herbal remedies. This study is rooted in Ayurvedic principles, exploring how Ayurvedic interventions can synergistically work with Yoga to manage non insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus.
16) Kvatha:
Kvātha refers to an Ayurvedic decoction made from herbal ingredients, commonly used to extract medicinal properties from plants. In the study, the preparation of Guḍūcī kvātha emphasizes the meticulous process involved in creating effective herbal remedies for diabetes treatment and overall health.
17) Tinospora cordifolia:
Tinospora cordifolia, commonly known as Guḍūcī, is a significant Ayurvedic herb renowned for its anti-diabetic properties. The study focuses on its role in reducing medication doses for diabetes patients, highlighting its effectiveness in conjunction with Yoga for improved health outcomes.
18) Quality:
Quality in this context pertains to the effectiveness and safety of Ayurvedic treatments and Yoga in managing diabetes. The study assesses the quality of life improvements experienced by participants due to reduced drug reliance, contributing essential insights into holistic approaches to health care.
19) Pharmacological:
Pharmacological refers to the interactions between drugs and biological systems. The study discusses the pharmacological efficacy of Guḍūcī in managing diabetes and compares it with traditional treatment methods, showcasing the herb's therapeutic potential backed by scientific evidence.
20) Tuberculosis:
This term refers to a significant infectious disease excluded from the study's population to ensure participant safety and avoid complications. Mentioning tuberculosis highlights rigorous criteria for participant selection, underscoring the study’s focus on non insulin-dependent diabetes without confounding health issues.
21) Discussion:
Discussion is the phase of research where findings are interpreted and contextualized. This section of the study analyzes the results collected from patients, reflecting on the integration of Yoga and Ayurveda in treating diabetes and its implications for future health strategies.
22) Prabhuta:
Prabhūta translates to 'abundant' in relation to Ayurvedic terminology. It denotes an increase in symptoms like frequent urination seen in diabetes patients. Understanding these terms is essential for recognizing how the study categorizes the symptomatology and assesses patient responses to treatment.
23) Training:
Training refers to the structured program of Yoga practices that participants undergo. This aspect is crucial for the comprehensive approach to diabetes management, as it addresses both physical health and mental well-being, enabling participants to adopt healthier lifestyle habits.
24) Shastra (Sastra):
Shastra refers to a body of knowledge or scripture in Hindu tradition. In the context of Ayurveda and Yoga, it represents the foundational texts that inform practices and therapies. The study relies on these texts to validate treatment approaches and integrate traditional wisdom into modern therapeutic paradigms.
25) Tridosha (Tridosa, Tri-dosha):
Tridoṣa is an Ayurvedic concept that describes the three fundamental bodily humors: Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. Imbalance in these doshas is linked to various health issues, including diabetes. The study's Ayurvedic approach considers these principles to tailor effective treatments for participants.
26) Apathya:
Apathya refers to dietary and lifestyle choices that are inadvisable for health. Recognizing apathya is crucial for managing diabetes as it helps individuals avoid harmful habits that could exacerbate their condition, thus enhancing the study's focus on comprehensive health management.
27) Science (Scientific):
Science represents the systematic study of the natural world through observation and experimentation. The study employs scientific methods to analyze the effectiveness of Yoga and Ayurvedic treatments for diabetes, validating traditional methods through empirical evidence and reinforcing the importance of integrated health care.
28) Mantra (Mamtra):
Mantra refers to a sound, word, or phrase repeated for concentration and meditation in Yoga. The study incorporates the use of Mantras during Yoga sessions to enhance mental focus and stress relief, contributing positively to the overall treatment effectiveness for diabetes patients.
29) Pathya:
Pathya refers to the prescribed diet and lifestyle suited for health improvement in Ayurveda. The study emphasizes the importance of pathya alongside Yoga and medication in managing diabetes, highlighting that lifestyle changes can significantly affect patient outcomes and well-being.
30) Avila:
Āvila translates to 'turbid' or 'cloudy,' referring to the altered properties of urine seen in diabetes patients. Recognizing signs like āvila is essential for establishing the diagnosis and understanding the effects of treatments, as discussed in the study's assessment of diabetic symptomatology.
31) Water:
Water is essential for life and is often a component in Ayurvedic treatments and lifestyle recommendations. In the study, its mention connects to the preparation of Guḍūcī kvātha and highlights the importance of hydration for overall health and optimal physiological functioning in diabetes management.
32) Rasa (Rasha):
Rasa, meaning 'taste', also implies the essence or quality of herbs and remedies in Ayurveda. In the study, understanding the concept of rasa supports the evaluation of Guḍūci's therapeutic properties and the holistic approach of combining taste, effect, and therapeutic utility in management practices.
33) Hand:
The hand is often symbolic in Ayurveda for its role in therapeutic touch and anatomical reference during Yoga practices. In the context of the study, 'hand' emphasizes the deliberate involvement of the practitioner in guiding participants through their Yoga journey and providing personalized support in their health management.
Other Science Concepts:
Discover the significance of concepts within the article: ‘Yoga may reduce Ayurvedic drug needs in non-insulin-dependent diabetes.’. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:
Madhumeha, Sedentary lifestyle, Clinical trial, Fasting blood sugar, Postprandial blood sugar, Ayurvedic medication, Non-insulin dependent diabetes mellitus, Yogic procedure, Glycemic control, Yoga Therapy, Comprehensive approach, Asanas and pranayama, Stress alleviation.